Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage has acknowledged the need for his team to raise their performance levels in the upcoming playoffs if they want to secure a spot at Wembley. Following a narrow defeat to Hartlepool United, Savage is preparing his side to face Boreham Wood in what is expected to be a decisive elimination fixture.
Hartlepool’s two first-half goals put Rovers on the back foot, and despite a late strike from Kyle McAllister, Forest Green couldn’t claw back the deficit. Savage praised the team’s aggressive start and the opportunity to experiment with a back three formation, which he believes will be crucial against Boreham Wood.
Captain Jordan Moore-Taylor initially appeared to put Rovers in front with a header from a corner in the 26th minute. However, the goal was controversially disallowed for offside interference, a decision Savage questioned after reviewing footage and discussing with officials.
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Hartlepool took the lead in the 35th minute through Adam Campbell’s composed finish from a cross by Alex Reid. They doubled their lead just before halftime when Reiss McNally headed in a free kick, capitalizing on unmarked players in the Rovers’ defense—a defensive lapse Savage attributed to a lack of accountability and poor marking, which he addressed at halftime.
McAllister’s goal in the closing stages was a bright spot but ultimately only a consolation. Savage singled out McAllister for praise, saying he is having his best season yet.
Moore-Taylor showed signs of a calf issue late in the match but continued to contribute, demonstrating his leadership with key plays. Sean Etaluku made a much-needed return to the starting lineup for the first time since Halloween, impressing in his 45 minutes on the pitch.
Looking ahead, Forest Green prepares for the Gloucestershire County Cup final against Bishop’s Cleeve, followed by their final regular-season home game versus Morecambe. Savage indicates that squad rotation will be important to keep players fresh, especially those who haven’t featured much recently.
Hartlepool United lineup included: Hayes; Benn, Kouogun, McNally, John; Hunter; Sheron, Campbell (Daly 73), Miley (Smith-Sway 81), Sinclair (Oliver 81); Reid (Caton 73). Subs not used: Parkes, Folarin, Walker.
Forest Green Rovers lineup included: Isted; Ahmed (Mitchell 65), Moore-Taylor, Mingi (Nwoko 77); Mendy, Etaluku (Knowles 46), McAllister, Haughton (Clarke 56), Buyabu; Mellor, Rees (Kengni 77). Subs not used: Pagel, Campbell.
Referee: Oliver Yates