Two tough away matches at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers, either side of the weekend, saw the Reds gain two points to keep their heads above water in the division.
Neither game will live long in the memory but Forest showcased their defensive solidity to the watching TV audience and can be reasonably happy with their return.
The accepted mantra about points away from home always being good ones, however, is often only true if you then win your home games and the Dons match really does represent an opportunity for the Reds to make it three in a row at the City Ground.
Karl Robinson’s side, in action on Tuesday evening against Sheffield Wednesday, have struggled for much of the season after gaining promotion from League One although the manager was much happier with Saturday’s display although Ipswich came away with all three points at Stadium MK.
Forest’s recent home victories, against Reading and Fulham, were achieved despite the away sides having more of the play.
Will they be able to force the issue more this Saturday if required against a team who have won just one of their ten matches on the road this season, scoring only seven goals?