Crosby: It was fate Commons would score

The Scotland international, a Forest player for four years before making the journey along the A52 to join the Reds' east midlands rivals last summer, settled an enthralling fourth-round replay with a deflected second-half strike to seal a stunning County comeback as they recovered from 2-0 down to win 3-2.

"It was always going to happen. It isn't the first time and it won't be the last time it happens," said Crosby. "He tried hard all night and if you keep putting yourself in the right positions then you will eventually reap the rewards and that is what happened."

Derby manager Nigel Clough turned down the chance to bask in his side's glory by giving the post-match press conference a miss. The former Forest striker instead sent Crosby - another ex-Red - to face the media.

"He doesn't look for any glory but he is incredibly pleased with the result and that is all he is interested in," said Crosby.

"He doesn't want to be seen to be taking any glory from it whatsoever but obviously it is a fantastic win in a cup tie away from home having been 2-0 down."

Clough's delight brought Billy Davies despair as he tasted defeat against the club he left almost 15 months ago.

The Forest boss was obviously disappointed to see his side squander a two-goal lead but told his players they could take heart from their performance against a team boasting much more strength and depth.

"I am disappointed to lose after being two goals up. We scored a good first goal but then our inexperienced kicked in and we sat off and allowed them to put crosses into the box," said Davies.

"But I have been very clear to the players - they can be proud of what they have achieved in terms of what they have competed against."