Will Swan’s first half goal at Whitley park saw Forest secure all three points to end Newcastle’s seven match unbeaten run in all competitions.
Only Oliver Hammond, Ateef Konate, Julian Larsson and Will Swan were the remaining starters from the Reds last win.
The game’s first genuine chance came after 22 minutes, when Newcastle’s defence was easily opened up at the back, allowing Alex Gibson-Hammond’s pass across goal to be turned in by Swan.
As Newcastle fought to establish themselves in the game, Gibson-Hammond came forward again from right-back but this effort could only find the side netting.
The hosts didn’t receive their first shot until stoppage time in the first half, when Josh Scott’s effort flew high and wide of the goal.
Early in the second half, Forest believed they had doubled their lead when substitute Lewis Salmon shot the ball from a tight angle, only to be denied by the offside flag.
Nicky Hogarth saved Newcastle’s first shot on target after 64th minute tipping Charlie Wiggett’s header over the bar.
Newcastle substitute Rodrigo Vilca came close to equalising in the closing stages but his low shot struck the outside of the post from the edge of the box.
Newcastle piled on the pressure late on and had a penalty appeal turned down, but they couldn’t find the back of the net as Forest won 1-0.
The win over Newcastle makes it three wins in a row for Andy Reid’s side in all competitions since their league loss against Fulham.
