Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage expressed confidence in his team’s capabilities following a commanding 4-0 FA Trophy win over Weston-super-Mare. Braces from Kyle McAllister and Jayden Clarke powered the hosts into the fourth round after a stellar second-half performance.
Savage acknowledged the challenge posed by Weston-super-Mare, a team managed by Scott Rogers and currently competing in the third round of the FA Cup. “They held us to half-time, but our substitutions and squad depth turned the tide. Our second-half display was magnificent,” said the manager.
Despite a frustrating first half where opportunities were missed, Forest Green’s control of possession was evident throughout the game. The breakthrough came just seven minutes into the second half when Harry Whitwell delivered a precise cross that McAllister headed in from a late run, establishing the lead.
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Kyle McAllister, deployed as a defensive midfielder in the second half, showcased remarkable versatility and work rate. Savage praised the 23-year-old, highlighting his ability to cover ground and contribute across multiple positions. “Kyle can play right, left, six, eight, or ten. I’ve told him this season he should aim for 15 goals and 15 assists. So far, he’s reached nine goals and six assists—he just needs to keep adding to those numbers. Football now revolves around data, and I expect him to reach 30 goal contributions per season,” Savage observed.
McAllister soon doubled the lead with a powerful low shot from close range, capitalizing on substitute Temi Babalola’s physical hold-up play. Jayden Clarke, introduced at half-time alongside Babalola, made an immediate impact by scoring from the edge of the box, placing the ball into the bottom right corner past goalkeeper Max Harris.
Clarke’s momentum continued as he completed his brace with a similar strike less than 15 minutes later, finishing a swift counterattack and effectively sealing the match as Weston-super-Mare pushed everyone forward in search of a goal.
Looking ahead to the upcoming FA Trophy fourth round draw on Monday, Savage remained unfazed. “We’re in the pot, and honestly, I don’t mind who we play. I truly believe we can beat anyone on our day,” he stated.
The clean sheet kept by Forest Green was the first since their October clash with Boston United, addressing critics who doubted their defensive solidity. Savage emphasized the importance of efficiency in front of goal, noting, “We were clinical in the final third today but can still improve. We hit the bar twice and had two shots cleared off the line, which shows the hard work in training is paying off.”
With January transfer preparations underway, Savage hinted at reinforcements to boost the squad’s quality further: “We’re planning to add a couple of players to enhance the team heading into the new year.”
Forest Green Rovers line-up: McNicholas; Pemberton, Mendy, Kanu (Bunker 46), Kengni (Doidge 76); Moore (Bamba 46); McAllister, Haughton (Clarke 46), Whitwell, Buyabu; Dausch (Babalola 46). Subs unused: Isted, Robson.
Weston-super-Mare line-up: Harris; Smith, Lewis, Avery, Bernard; Cummins; Wilson (Coulson 71), May (Hicks 71), Kite (Wood 71), Birch (Johnson 87); Britton. Subs unused: Glover, Jagger-Cane.
Referee: Matthew Scholes.
Attendance: 973 (206 away).