Championship: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Burnley

Graham Alexander grabbed a rare brace of goals to secure Burnley's first triumph of the season - then put his success down to being dropped by George Burley.

The midfielder scored only once last season but doubled that tally in just 90 minutes at the City Ground to ruin Forest's unbeaten home record.

He broke the deadlock on 25 minutes by thumping a free-kick past Paul Smith.

Robert Earnshaw levelled for the home side seven minutes into the second half with his fifth goal in seven outings.

But Alexander had the final say when he converted a 71st-minute penalty after Wes Morgan handled substitute Ade Akinbiyi's cross.

Alexander was dropped by Burley for Scotland's midweek win in Iceland but on this evidence his next cap will not be long in coming.

He said: "This win was something we badly needed because we have been close to getting a result like this in the league.

"I was pleased to see that free-kick go in. I don't practise them in training but that one came off.

"The Scotland game in midweek was a great win but I was disappointed not to be involved.

"I was so frustrated, but it made me feel a buzz to get out there and play again and hopefully it showed in my performance.

"It's not about sending people reminders. I just want to do my best for Burnley and see what comes after that."

Colin Calderwood remained positive despite watching his side slip towards the bottom of the table and he said: "I thought the penalty decision was a wee bit unjust.

"It wasn't a deliberate attempt to handle it and I'll be seeking clarification of the ruling from the referee. We didn't do too much wrong in order to get beaten but I've seen an improvement in the spirit and condition of the team."