Forest Green Rovers' unbeaten start to the National League season continued with a 2-1 comeback victory at Worthing, thanks to the impact of substitutes Josh Osude and Ricardo Rees.
What happened?
The match saw Forest Green Rovers fall behind after just two minutes, with Teddy Jenks reacting quickest to tap home from close range after Ethan Ross had saved an initial effort. However, the introduction of substitutes Josh Osude and Ricardo Rees in the second half changed the game, with Osude levelling in the 58th minute after chasing down a loose back pass towards Worthing goalkeeper Harrison Foulkes.
Why it matters for Forest Green
The victory was a testament to the strength of Forest Green Rovers' squad, with manager Robbie Savage praising the impact of his substitutes. Savage noted that the changes at half-time won the game, and that the substitutes scored the goals, describing it as an outstanding performance.
What comes next?
Forest Green Rovers will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next fixture against Wealdstone on February 16, 2027. The team currently sits 6th in the National League, with 6 points from 2 games, and a recent form of WW.
League standing: 6th in National League, 6 pts, 2W-0D-0L from 2 games, recent form WW. Goals this season: 5 scored, 3 conceded (+2 goal difference). Next fixture: vs Wealdstone (away, 2027-02-16) (19th in the table).
Forest Green Rovers' owner Dale Vince was also in attendance, and manager Robbie Savage praised the newly-promoted side Worthing, who impressed on their first National League home appearance. Savage noted that Worthing will be fine, and that they are a very good side who play good football.
The victory was made even more special for Savage by the presence of Forest Green owner Dale Vince. Savage praised Worthing and their manager Adam Hinshelwood, describing their performance as unbelievable.
Forest Green Rovers' goalkeeper Ethan Ross produced a number of important saves, including a superb stop from Joe Cook's header, while Worthing also saw an effort cleared off the line. Savage explained his decision to select Ross ahead of Luke McNicholas, noting that it was a tough call, but that he had the final say.
Tate Campbell has also impressed since being moved into central defence following Emeka Obi's season-ending injury. Savage revealed that Campbell had backed himself to fill the position, and that he certainly can.
But Savage admitted that Rovers still need defensive reinforcements. He noted that they will look to sign four centre-backs, especially when they go to a back-three at the end like they did. Gabe Kircough was unfortunate not to get into the squad.
Image Prompt
A photorealistic image of an anonymous Forest Green Rovers player in action, with a bright green jersey and white shorts, sprinting down the wing with the ball at his feet. The image is taken with a 24mm f/2.8 lens, with a shallow depth of field and a floodlight rim light. The player's face is visible, with a determined expression, and the background is thrown out of focus. The image captures the moment when Josh Osude chased down a loose back pass and levelled the score in the 58th minute.
