Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage praised his team’s performance after their commanding 2-0 win over Gateshead, highlighting the significance of their first clean sheet in 13 league matches. The victory, secured by goals from Tom Knowles and Chibby Nwoko, was crucial in building the squad’s confidence and halting a recent slump.
Savage expressed his pride in the players’ consistent efforts, regardless of recent results. “The performances have been strong in parts, but today we got the early goal and, importantly, kept a clean sheet,” he said. “Returning to our preferred 4-2-3-1 formation helped us get back to our best. We needed this win for confidence, and the fans were fantastic.”
Tom Knowles opened the scoring early after receiving a perfectly timed pass from goalkeeper Harry Isted. Savage described an emotional moment after the match: “Knowlesy was very moved; he recently lost his nan but chose not to share it with the team until after the game. That kind of spirit means a lot.”
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Chibby Nwoko, deployed as an attacking midfielder for the first time this season, doubled the lead just after the break. Nwoko skillfully lobbed the ball over Gateshead’s goalkeeper Peter Jameson. Savage noted, “Playing as a number 10 allows him to get forward and create chances. He could have scored more, just needing to shoot with his right foot, but it was a fantastic finish and overall a solid performance.”
Unfortunately, the night was tempered by an injury to Ricardo Rees, who was forced off in the second half after suffering a left leg injury. Savage expressed concern: “Ricardo looks like it might be serious. We heard a click, so he’ll be getting a scan tomorrow. Hopefully, it’s not as bad as it seems.”
The victory lifts Forest Green Rovers’ spirits as they aim to maintain momentum heading into their upcoming fixtures.