Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage praised his team’s performance following their 3-1 victory over Gateshead at The New Lawn on Saturday. The win marked their fourth consecutive league triumph, moving them to the top of the table.
Goals from Jili Buyabu, Temi Babalola, and Jayden Clarke sealed the victory, with all three players contributing to an impressive team display. Savage emphasized the need for greater clinical finishing, highlighting the team’s abundance of chances, despite the strong scoreline.
“We created 30 shots against 11 men tonight. The quality and effort from this group is incredible,” Savage said. “We have to be more ruthless in front of goal, especially as we push for promotion.”
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Buyabu opened the scoring shortly after the 10-minute mark, capitalizing on a deflected Jayden Clarke shot. Savage noted Buyabu’s relentless efforts, adding that player rotations helped keep the squad fresh for the demanding match.
Temi Babalola doubled the lead in the 25th minute with a powerful diving header, assisted by Nick Haughton’s skillful delivery. The first half was capped off by Clarke’s composed finish after a well-timed through ball from Kyle McAllister, despite physical pressure from defenders.
Clarke reflected on his goal, stating, “I felt confident going one-on-one and chose to stay on my feet, wanting to score rather than draw a foul.”
Goalkeeper Harry Isted was instrumental in maintaining the clean sheet for much of the match, making several spectacular saves in the first half. Savage described Isted’s performance as “unbelievable” and a key factor in the team’s success.
“His saves kept us comfortable, especially early on. Although he conceded with the last kick, his impact was immense,” Savage added.
Nick Haughton also received high praise for his contributions, overcoming a midweek illness to deliver another star performance. Despite Gateshead goalkeeper Tiernan Brooks making several critical saves to deny further goals, Rovers dominated the game.
Savage acknowledged the missed chances but remained confident in his squad’s abilities as they continue their promotion push. Gateshead managed a consolation goal at the final whistle through player-assistant manager Jacob Butterfield’s long-range strike.
Forest Green Rovers lineup included Isted; Knowles (Pemberton 68), Mendy, Kanu, Buyabu (Kengni 68); Bunker; McAllister (Dausch 81), Haughton (Moore 73), Whitwell, Clarke; Babalola (Doidge 81). Gateshead’s lineup featured Brooks; John, Williams, Melbourne (Lowely 89), Ferguson; Home, Edwards (Gettins 79); Adom (Telford 79), Butterfield, Chapman (Bone 89); Pennant (Hurst 59).
Referee for the match was Harrison Blair, with an attendance of 2,386, including 40 away supporters.