URGENT UPDATE: Forest Green Rovers’ manager Robbie Savage expressed frustration after his team’s 1-1 draw against Solihull Moors at The New Lawn on December 16, 2023. Despite a spirited comeback, Savage deemed the match a missed opportunity, emphasizing that “you have to be winning games like this if you want to win the league.”
In a thrilling contest, Alex Whitmore opened the scoring for Solihull in the first half, capitalizing on a second ball from a free kick. Forest Green equalized just after the hour mark with a precise finish from Nick Haughton, who navigated through defenders to find the net. However, Savage’s disappointment was palpable as he stated, “We’re not clinical enough, not ruthless enough,” underscoring the need for improvement if they are to contend for the league title.
The match featured a tense atmosphere, with 1,894 fans in attendance witnessing a game that had both teams struggling for consistency. Savage lamented the missed chances, saying, “We can’t keep creating this many chances… it’s going to cost us.” His frustration was echoed by the performance of Solihull’s defense, particularly James Clarke, who made two crucial goalline clearances that kept the visitors in the game.
Savage made tactical changes at halftime, introducing Tre Pemberton for Isaac Moore, which proved effective as Rovers improved their attacking threat. “You don’t scream and shout at half-time, you give them solutions, and the solutions worked,” he noted, praising Pemberton’s impact.
The match also drew attention to the officiating, with both managers sharing light moments over questionable decisions made by referee Paul Johnson. Savage commented on the challenges referees face, stating, “It’s a tough job, and they do their best.”
Looking ahead, Forest Green Rovers will not return to league action until their trip to Yeovil on December 20. Their next match will be an FA Trophy tie against Weston-super-Mare, who recently qualified for the FA Cup third round. The upcoming clash is particularly notable as former Rovers midfielder Adam May is expected to return to The New Lawn.
Fans are eager for a turnaround as the season progresses. Savage urged his players to harness their potential, stating, “It should be a good game next week; we’re flying in our league, they’re flying in theirs.”
As Forest Green looks to sharpen their finishing and secure crucial victories, the pressure mounts to convert performances into points on the board.
