Dietmar Hamann's ability to produce extraordinary goals sunk brave Forest at the City Ground. The midfielder conjured a marvellous effort two weeks ago against Arsenal, and last night he shattered the Premiership's bottom club with another classic.

He unleashed a breathtaking drive from 35 yards out that crashed past a helpless Mark Crossley.

Forest had overcome the blow of a dubious penalty, awarded by referee Jeff Winter to Newcastle on the stroke of half-time. Alan Shearer, who went tumbling in the box, stepped up to score from the spot but Forest still managed to go into the break level. Dougie Freedman headed home Steve Stone's cross within seconds of the re-start.

However, the blow of having Mathieu Louis-Jean after 50 minutes was eventually too much of a handicap.

Nottm Forest: Crossley, Louis-Jean, Gough (Edwards 48), Bonalair, Chettle, Stensaas (Bart-Williams 69), Stone, Rogers, Johnson, Van Hooijdonk, Freedman (Harewood 77). Subs Not Used: Beasant, Woan. Sent Off: Louis-Jean (50). Booked: Louis-Jean, Chettle, Johnson, Van Hooijdonk. Goals: Freedman 45.

Newcastle: Given, Howey (Dabizas 20), Barton, Shearer, Georgiadis, Saha (Ketsbaia 89), Hamann, Charvet, Speed (Lee 45), Domi, Maric. Subs Not Used: Harper, Solano. Booked: Hamann. Goals: Shearer 45 pen, Hamann 73. Att: 22,852.

Referee: J Winter (Stockton-on-Tees).