Nottingham Forest under-21s kicked off their EFL Trophy campaign with a dramatic 2-1 win over League Two outfit Carlisle United.

The Reds were in fine form against the senior opposition and won it at the death through an Archie Whitehall goal.

Forest first entered this competition last season and actually progressed from their group before losing to Doncaster Rovers in the knockout stages.

It's a competition that often draws low crowds and criticism with many cynics believing that having under-21 teams from the Premier League involved devalues it.

However, it's great to see the youngsters getting their chance to play against men and last night Forest under-21s grasped it with both hands.

The talented player made his first team debut last season against Bristol City in the FA Cup and that will have done his confidence the world of good.

Last night's game was live on BBC Radio Nottingham and former Reds star James Perch praised the 19-year-old after his goal.

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He said: "He hit the ball into the ground, it took a deflection and went in. He's been Forest's liveliest player and deserves that goal."

Garnder will be with the under-21s in the EFL Trophy this season and will also play for the B-Team in their Premier League 2 campaign.

He looked sharp last night and perhaps a loan move might be on the cards when it comes to the January transfer window.

Nuno Espirito Santo will be buoyed by under-21 form The Portuguese head coach has come in for some criticism previously at Wolves and Tottenham for obstructing the pathway from the youth teams.

However, he might be willing to let his guard down on that somewhat at Forest.

Last week, Zach Abbott started for Forest in the Carabao Cup against Newcastle and he didn't look out of place during the penalty shootout defeat.

There were also minutes for Gardner and Brandon Aguilera last season and perhaps Espirito Santo is mindful of the club's academy.

Gardner's performance last night was typically energetic and even if he'd not found the way to goal, he'd have still been praised for his efforts.

The challenge for the player this season is to stay grounded and hope that his versatility might earn him the chance to play senior football at some point.