Cardiff City's Chris Willock scored a hat-trick to lead his team to a 5-1 pre-season friendly victory over Forest Green Rovers. The winger, who played the first half, netted a close-range goal, a long-range curler, and a penalty kick in an impressive display of finishing. Forest Green finished last season 7th in the National League with 81 points, 23 wins, 12 draws, and 11 losses from 46 games, scoring 82 goals and conceding 52 for a +30 goal difference. They ended 27 points behind leaders York and lost their last match 1-0 to Boreham Wood on April 29, 2026. Their recent form shows two wins, zero draws, and three losses in their last five matches (LLWWL).
What happened in the match?
Willock opened the scoring with a close-range finish before adding a stunning long-range effort. He completed his hat-trick with a confident penalty kick, showcasing his versatility and clinical finishing. Despite the comfortable scoreline, Willock emphasized the importance of the team's collective performance, stating, "It was a good team performance. We played well, and a lot of things that we train happened today."
Why it matters for Forest Green
The match served as a valuable pre-season test for Forest Green, who are preparing for another campaign in the National League. While the result was a heavy defeat, the focus for the team will be on building momentum and addressing defensive vulnerabilities ahead of the new season. Manager Brian will be looking to instill discipline and improve their recent form, which has seen them lose their last two matches.
What comes next?
Willock expressed his excitement about returning to the Championship, stating, "I'm buzzing that we're back in the Championship. The Club deserves it." He also highlighted his determination to make an impact in the upcoming season, saying, "I want to show my form in the Championship. I'm going to keep working hard." For Forest Green, the focus will be on fine-tuning their tactics and ensuring they are ready to challenge for promotion in the National League.
