Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage praised his team’s growing momentum following their 3-1 home victory against Braintree Town, emphasizing their strong chances heading into the upcoming play-offs. With a confident outlook, Savage declared, “In four weeks, we could be league players,” highlighting the opportunity that lies ahead.
The win was powered by goals from D’Mani Mellor, Tom Knowles, and Nick Haughton, guiding Forest Green past a Braintree side already relegated and fighting to avoid finishing bottom of the table. Savage highlighted the team’s progress compared to last season: “Play-offs were the goal, equalling 22 wins from last season. We’re scoring more goals—seven more than last year.”
Savage praised several standout performances, notably Mellor’s sharp attacking display: “D was brilliant, rightfully man of the match. His link-up play and movement have been pivotal. It’s his third goal now, and combining with Ricardo up front has been a strong option.”
READ MORE: Devoted Grandmother and Beloved Wife Remembered in Gloucestershire Funeral Notices
READ MORE: Calls to Keep Three Counties or Mercia Combined Authority Option Open
The opening goal came in the 37th minute in a somewhat controversial fashion. Despite Braintree captain Ryan Clampin being down injured, Forest Green pressed on. Kyle McAllister struck the crossbar, and Mellor capitalized on the rebound with a close-range header. Although Braintree’s Lewis Walker equalized just before the hour, quieting the home crowd, Rovers responded quickly.
Tom Knowles restored Forest Green’s lead with a clever header after McAllister’s shot was parried by the goalkeeper. Savage praised Knowles’ consistency, mentioning he was named player of the season but noted others like McAllister and Mellor have also shone. Shortly after, Forest Green capitalized on a rapid counterattack, with Mellor setting up Haughton to score a powerful finish.
Despite the win, Savage underscored the need for defensive discipline, particularly in set-piece situations where Braintree had caused problems in the past. He also welcomed Cian Harries back from injury, noting his calm presence and left-footed ability bolsters the team as they prepare for the play-offs.
After the match, Savage had some players practice penalties in front of a lively crowd to simulate the pressure of a play-off shootout. “We scored five out of five,” he said confidently. “If we can do that in the play-offs, we’ll have a great chance.”
Forest Green Rovers:
Isted; Knowles (Pemberton 81), Mingi, Moore-Taylor (Harries), Mendy, Buyabu (Kengni 60); McAllister, Campbell (Nwoko 60), Clarke (Rees 60); Haughton, Mellor. Subs not used: Pagel, Etaluku.
Braintree Town:
Terry; Battrum, Francis-Clarke, Clarridge, Clampin (Omrore 43); Dibley-Dias (Okunowo 79), Babic (Harriott 79); Kamara (Akinde 62), Cooper, Massiah-Edwards (Vennings 79); Walker. Subs not used: Hadi, Thorpe.
Referee: Dale Baines.
Attendance: 1,969 (42 away).