Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage is optimistic about his team’s prospects as they build momentum heading into the play-offs, following their 3-1 victory over Braintree Town at The New Lawn.
Goals from D’Mani Mellor, Tom Knowles, and Nick Haughton secured the win against a Braintree side fighting to avoid finishing bottom of the league. Savage highlighted the progress his squad has made this season, noting they have matched last season’s win total with more goals scored and improved performances.
“Play-offs were the goal,” Savage said. “We have 22 wins, matching last season, and have scored seven more goals. We’ve won six out of the last nine games, so I’m pleased with the direction we’re heading.”
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Mellor opened the scoring in the 37th minute under somewhat controversial circumstances, capitalizing on a rebound after Braintree’s injured captain Ryan Clampin went down. “D’Mani was brilliant today, earning man of the match with his link-up play and clinical finishing. That’s now three goals for him this season,” commented Savage.
Braintree managed an equalizer through Lewis Walker just before the hour mark, silencing the home crowd. However, Savage felt his team’s defensive intensity could improve. “We need to be more aggressive in defending; too many goals have come from sloppy play around the six-yard box.”
Rovers responded strongly as Knowles restored the lead with a powerful header following a shot from Kyle McAllister. “Tom has been excellent all season, winning player of the year, and his goal came at the perfect moment to regain momentum.”
Later, a swift counterattack saw Mellor assist Haughton, who scored with a powerful strike to seal the victory. Savage praised the attacking move but stressed defensive discipline ahead of the play-offs. “We can’t be that open at the back. In the play-offs, every player has to run back and support defensively.”
Cian Harries also made his first appearance of the season under Savage, coming on as a substitute and providing valuable experience and composure. “He brings calm and fitness; we’re getting stronger as a team.”
Post-match, Savage put his players through penalty practice in front of a lively crowd to simulate play-off pressure. “Some of the lads have never experienced that walk before. It’s a tough environment, but today we scored five from five. If that happens in the play-offs, we’ve got a great chance.”
The win has given Forest Green Rovers a confident platform as they eye promotion – with Savage urging focus and commitment over the next four weeks. “In four weeks, we could be league players. Let’s grasp this opportunity, give everything on and off the pitch, and prove that anyone can beat anybody in the play-offs.”
Forest Green Rovers line-up: 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 line-up: 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 supporters)