A Forest fan has been excused a football ban for setting off a flare as he walked towards the City Ground.
Joshua Laing was detained after police spotted it as he prepared for the visit of Derby County on November 9, a court heard.
The 21-year-old had travelled from Norwich for the keenly awaited clash - but never saw Forest win by the only goal.
Amreek Jandoo, mitigating, told Nottingham Magistrates' Court that the flare only lasted for a few seconds and the incident took place well away from the ground.
"This was an isolated incident. He has never been in trouble before and is hoping to become a PE teacher.
"He was supporting his boyhood club and has learnt a valuable lesson," said Mr Jandoo.
After the solicitor's submission, District Judge Tim Spruce agreed not to impose an order banning Laing from all senior football matches. If a ban is imposed, it has to be for a minimum of three years with five years the maximum.
A two-year conditional discharge was imposed on Laing, 21, of Coleburn Road, Norwich. He admitted having a firework on Pavilion Road, West Bridgford while trying to enter a designated sports ground.
He must pay £85 prosecution costs and £21 government tax.
Sanjay Jerath, prosecuting, said that the flare produced red smoke. Laing discarded it but police officers had seen the incident and were able to identify him, added Mr Jerath.
Forest won the match when Lewis Grabban scored the only goal in the 56th minute, leaving the Rams without a win in their last eight visits to the City Ground.
The match had kicked off early to fit in with television schedules because it had been selected to be broadcast live. Despite that, it still attracted an attendance of 29,314 people, including Derby County supporters who made their way up the A52.
