Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage expressed his frustration after his team suffered a 92nd-minute defeat to Tamworth, with Dan Creaney scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time on Wednesday evening.
The narrow loss dealt a blow to Forest Green’s push for a play-off spot, with the only goal coming from a last-minute scramble in a largely uninspiring match. Savage criticized his players’ lack of awareness and composure in the dying moments.
“Credit to Tamworth, a part-time side who didn’t train all week, many of them working full-time jobs today and tomorrow. Our lads need to understand how fortunate they are because that performance wasn’t good enough,” Savage said.
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He touched on the physical demands on his players but stressed that work ethic and focus must never waver. “Some Tamworth players had a full day’s work before playing until the 92nd minute. We need to hold ourselves accountable. Conceding a goal like that is unacceptable.”
Savage dissected the defensive breakdown that allowed Tamworth’s winner: “In the last minute, playing three at the back, we left Creaney unmarked at the back post. Our three centre backs drifted toward the front post, leaving him free. That is naive.”
The play began with a free kick from Kyle McAllister, which was headed clear, then delivered over the head of Forest Green’s left wing-back Neil Kengni. The ball was crossed low into the box, leading to Creaney’s tap-in with just moments left.
Despite a promising chance for McAllister on the hour mark after a flick from D’Mani Mellor, Forest Green struggled to capitalize. “Kyle’s chance was huge — he needed to shoot on his right foot, but their defense did well to block it,” Savage remarked.
Injuries also hampered Forest Green’s efforts. Josh Osude was forced off just six minutes after coming on, replaced by Jose Marquez. “We showed courage playing two upfront in a 5-3-2, but losing Osude so quickly was a blow. Jose came in with no excuses and did his best.”
Several players, including Nick Haughton and Jili Buyabu, remained unused substitutes due to tactical reasons and formation changes. Savage praised other squad members who stepped up. “When we switched formation, some positions didn’t suit certain players, but those on the pitch gave their all.”
Ryan Inniss, sidelined by illness on Saturday, was available but left out due to the strong performance of the back three. However, revive hope came in news that club captain Jordy Knowles has completed his rehab and returned to training, potentially available for the next match.
“The only positive from tonight is that our closest rivals also dropped points,” added Savage, referencing draws and losses among teams around Forest Green in the table.
Tamworth lineup featured Singh, Rye, Cullinane-Liburd, Digie, Fairlamb; Mols, Kurtaran, Milnes (Riley 82), Acquaye; Lynch (McGlinchey 90+7), Creaney. Forest Green lined up with Isted; Mendy, Kircough, Kanu; Knowles (Osude 65, Marquez 72), Nwoko (Bunker 89), Campbell, Kengni; McAllister, Clarke (Ahmed 65); Mellor.
The match was officiated by Lee Swabey and witnessed by 931 fans, including 164 Forest Green supporters.