But being ahead allowed Arsenal chance to sit back and pick their moments, with Jeff Reine-Adelaide almost completing a fine counter before dragging his shot narrowly wide just before the break. Pereira, meanwhile, was never the same force against a deeper-lying defence and had also been on the receiving end of a hefty foul from Perez.
Though Forest put in plenty of effort, their lack of incision and leaden defending ended up reflecting their 13th place in the Championship. Arsenal's players, supporters and perhaps even their manager were able to enjoy themselves. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's strike in the dying moments was further confirmation of a vast gap in quality.