Dexter Blackstock's red card was harsh, says Nottingham Forest boss Sean O'Driscoll

Sean O'Driscoll: Forest boss disappointed with game-changing red card in defeat by Derby

Sean O'Driscoll has bemoaned the 'harsh' dismissal of Dexter Blackstock in Nottingham Forest's defeat to Derby County.

Blackstock was sent off by referee Robert Madley just a few seconds into the second half after being adjudged to have deliberately elbowed Richard Keogh in the head.

Nigel Clough's side went on to claim East Midlands bragging rights with a 1-0 victory thanks to Craig Bryson's strike nine minutes later.

"I could see why he's given it, but I thought it was harsh if I'm honest," O'Driscoll told Sky Sports.

"If we are aware that he is coming out and he's going to punish the first foul or whatever, then at least we can prepare the players. To do it so suddenly and so quickly was disappointing."

Keogh added: "I think he was just jumping for the ball to be fair to him, on another day he doesn't get sent off.

"At the end of the day it's up for the ref to call it, and it went our way."