Forest Green Rovers confirmed their place in the National League play-offs with a commanding 3-1 home victory against relegated Braintree.
D’Mani Mellor opened the scoring in the 37th minute, pouncing on a rebound after Kyle McAllister’s shot struck the crossbar. The Rovers appeared in control, but Braintree’s Lewis Walker tested goalkeeper Harry Isted just before half-time, with Isted making a crucial save.
Walker eventually found the net in the 58th minute, converting a simple tap-in from a precise low cross by Chay Cooper, leveling the score and giving Braintree hope.
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However, Forest Green regained the lead in the 71st minute through Tom Knowles. After Braintree keeper Mason Terry initially kept out McAllister’s long-range effort and Knowles’ header, the midfielder finally scored.
Just three minutes later, Nick Haughton sealed the victory with a clinical finish from Mellor’s pass, ensuring Forest Green Rovers a spot in the play-offs.