Jonathan Gould expressed his satisfaction with the character and unity displayed by his Forest Green Rovers players as they fought to a 1-1 draw with Wealdstone at The New Lawn.
With the team grappling with a series of challenges including injuries, suspensions, international call-ups, and uncertainty over the managerial role, set-piece coach Gould was encouraged by the players' response under difficult circumstances.
“I believe the performance outweighs all of those problems we are facing and it reflects what a strong group has been assembled at this football club,” Gould remarked.
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Gould took temporary charge alongside the coaching staff after Robbie Savage was granted permission to discuss a managerial position at Peterborough United, a role he was eventually offered.
Although Rovers were unable to secure a win, Gould felt the team demonstrated admirable resilience after a sluggish start to the match.
“In the first 20 to 25 minutes, we didn’t settle well and struggled to assert control,” he admitted.
A tactical shift, involving moving MacAllister deeper and reinstating the two original holding midfielders, helped the team gain better possession control and added width to their attacks.
“Macca began getting on the ball more and provided us with width through his deliveries,” Gould explained.
This adjustment was soon rewarded on the scoreboard. Wealdstone initially took the lead in the 28th minute when Fejiri Okenabirhie capitalised on Joe Newton’s flick-on. However, Forest Green responded promptly, with Tate Campbell firing home from a Sean Etaluku cross ten minutes later to equalise.
Gould believed Rovers could have gone into the half-time break ahead.
“We probably should have been a couple of goals up at half-time,” he said.
Nevertheless, Gould expressed disappointment at conceding the opener, particularly as it stemmed from a set-piece threat the team had anticipated.
“Our frustration lies in conceding to a ball-up situation that we had identified as one of their main strengths,” he said. “Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to deal with it effectively.”
While acknowledging the quality of the finish, Gould stressed the importance of maintaining composure in such scenarios.
“We need to be more assured in those moments and handle bouncing, bobbling balls better.”
The second half saw chances for both sides. Gould, who usually serves as the club’s goalkeeping coach, also praised goalkeeper Ethan Laird for an important save.
“He came up after a mistake and apologised but then produced a crucial save,” Gould noted. “That shows a goalkeeper who is focused and fully aware of the game’s state.”
Nick Haughton was introduced in the second half, providing additional attacking impetus. Gould highlighted Haughton’s positive influence both on the pitch and in the dressing room.
“Nick is one of the real gems in the dressing room, helping keep the group united with his excellent character,” Gould added.
Reflecting on the overall outcome, Gould emphasised the need to consider the team’s current difficulties.
“With so many challenges, the performance really stands out and highlights the strength within the squad,” he reiterated.
Looking ahead, Rovers now face a period without fixtures, focusing on recovery and preparation.
“Our priority is simply to do our best for this club, which is a great place to be,” Gould concluded.
Team line-ups:
Forest Green Rovers: Ross; Abrefa, Mabete, Ajayi, Kuemo (Pemberton 78’); Campbell, Gbadehan (Haughton 63’), MacAllister; Etaluku, Ifeanyi (Patrick 56’), Marquez. Subs not used: McNicholas, Walsh, Kircough, Fearon.
Wealdstone: Baptiste; Newton, Kanu (Barrett 72’, Cook 83’), Francis-Clarke, McAvoy; Wells-Morrison, Henry, Kadji; Okenabirhie (Olomola 80’), Chesters (Maher 46’), Norris. Subs not used: Johnson, Waweru, Uchenna.
Referee: Lewis Sandoe
Attendance: 1,157