Once upon a time, back in 2005, it was hard to imagine a then National League Forest Green Rovers would reach the lofty heights of League One.
Long before Dale Vince’s deep pockets, Rovers played at the cozy old Lawn, now a bustling housing estate.
We look at a previous time that featured smaller crowds, part-time players and meat on the menu.
The pictures from this game, 17 years ago, are from Rovers’ 2-1 defeat to Aylesbury in the FA Trophy on January 15th.
Trevor Horsley was the man at the top of the tree, Colin Peake was the only full-time staff member and Alan Lewer was Rovers’ manager in the dugout.
We spotted a fresh-faced Charlie Griffin, popular captain Jon ‘Rico’ Richardson, defender Damon Searle, and midfield lynchpin Scott Rogers, but who do you recognise?
We also noticed two loyal fans in the picture gallery with winger Ryan Williams, but do you know who they are?
Thanks to club statistician Heather Cook for the team details.
Forest Green: Schofield, Davis, Richardson, Rogers, Griffin, Searle, Appleby, Beswetherick. R. Williams, Lyttle, Burns.
Subs: Gadsby, Beesley, Danks, Roberts, Alexis.
Attendance: 554
Email ash@stroudtimes.com with your memories.
