Forest Green returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion, brushing aside a spirited Worthing side to silence any hint of a cup upset – dominant, decisive, and unbothered by the supposed FA Cup banana skin beneath their moulded studs on the slick 4G surface.
The line-up reflected Robbie Savage’s pre-match words, as an aggressive 4-2-3-1 took to the park, with the ever-impressive Mendy once again showcasing his versatility at the heart of the defence.
The hosts started brightly, carrying early momentum and forcing Rovers into a more compact shape. In fairness, though, Worthing’s pressure amounted to little more than half-chances during this spell.
Rovers’ quality told in the 12th minute, as Tom Knowles caught the Worthing back line napping with a clever ball to the onrushing Whitwell, who finished confidently to break the deadlock. Knowles was at the heart of things again just ten minutes later, combining neatly with the electric Jili before slotting home a composed finish of his own.
The wind had been taken out of the home crowd, as FGR professionally went about their business on the South Coast, cruising towards what looked to be a comfortable evening. Just as the half time tea was being served, Teddy Jenks gave the home side a lifeline, with a tidy finish which snuck into the far post.
As the second half progressed, Worthing’s pressure began to build. That spell reached its peak when Tre Pemberton came to the rescue, clearing the ball off the line to preserve FGR’s advantage.
FGR didn’t look back from there, as Bunker started and ended a lovely move to find the game’s 4th and decisive goal. The game was duly sealed with a calm penalty from Clarke on the 74th minute, as FGR confirmed their spot at the Kenny in a few weeks’ time.
A very professional evening for Rovers, which will surely give the players confidence as they head north to Carlisle later this week.
Forest Green fan Tom Carter hands out the ratings after Forest Green’s 4-1 victory at Worthing.
Playing Ratings
McNicholas – 7.0
Didn’t have a huge amount to do across the ninety, but everything he was called upon to handle, he did so calmly and efficiently. Showed good command of his area and distributed sensibly when required. A composed and competent showing between the sticks.
Pemberton – 7.8
Faced some early pressure down his side but reacted well and quickly settled into the game. Brought real energy going forward, driving FGR up the pitch and linking play smartly. Composed defensively and confident in possession, a steady, well-rounded display. Crucial clearance off the line at 2-1!
Inniss – 7.7
A solid performance from Ry, who managed several tricky situations with good awareness and strength. Was exposed at times when Worthing looked to get in behind, but his experience showed as he dealt with those moments calmly. Continues to be a reliable presence at the back.
Mendy – 8.1
Read the game well and was proactive in stepping into midfield, helping FGR control the tempo from centre-back. He was caught out of position a couple of times early on by pushing too high but recovered well and grew in confidence defensively as the game progressed. Played a key role in Rovers’ third goal, stepping in with real purpose and aggression. While he still looks most natural in the No.6 role, his versatility gives Savage valuable options.
Kengni – 7.9
Started brightly and looked at ease throughout. His energy and direct running caused problems, and he grew in confidence as the game progressed. Defensively solid and increasingly dominant as Worthing tired – a strong showing, his best in a FGR shirt to date. Enjoyed some banter with the home crowd too!
Balagizi – 7.0
A fairly comfortable 55 minutes before making way for Harvey. Moved the ball efficiently and showed glimpses of his quality without ever really grabbing control of the midfield. Solid if unspectacular, job done without too much fuss – exactly what you want from your 6. With consistent minutes, you can envisage a key player emerging with Robbie’s guidance.
Whitwell – 8.5
An elegant & mature performance from Harry. Outstanding for large spells, dictating play and driving FGR forward in transition. His composure and energy in midfield stood out, and he capped it off with another excellent goal. Continues to grow in confidence, he ran the show at times. He has rapidly become one of the first names on the team sheet.
Haughton – 6.5
There are clear signs of quality from Nick, even if it’s not fully clicking just yet. He showed glimpses with a few neat touches and moments of tidy link-up play but still looks a touch short of full sharpness. Once his match rhythm returns, he’ll have the platform to really impose himself with the quality of FGR’s squad.
Bayabu – 8.5
A constant menace down the sides. Jili’s pace and directness caused Worthing real issues all evening. Beat his man time and time again, linked well with those around him, and looked full of confidence. A really strong attacking performance.
Knowles – 9.3 (MOTM)
Another excellent display from a man in form. Registered a clever assist and took his goal brilliantly. His movement, link-up play, and overall awareness were superb throughout. Looked a level above – deservedly Zone FGR’s Man of the Match.
Doidge – 6.5
Battled hard as always, though the final ball rarely fell for him and his service was limited before being withdrawn just before the hour. An honest shift, one that helped create space and opportunities for those around him to thrive, even if the clear chances didn’t come his way.
Subs
Bunker – 8.2
Made an immediate impact off the bench, scoring with a composed finish and playing with freedom and confidence. His passing and interplay were sharp – he looked completely at ease throughout the half. A fantastic 40-minute cameo from Harvey, one that helped FGR firmly regain momentum.
Clarke – 8.4
Looked lively and sharp from the moment he came on. Took his penalty with real confidence and carried himself well. A great impact substitute who gave FGR another attacking dimension.
Mitchell – 6.5
Brought stability and calmness when introduced. Used his experience to help FGR see the game out professionally. Nothing flashy, just quietly effective.
Bamba & Robson – 6.5
Didn’t have a great deal of time to make their mark, but both applied themselves well and maintained the team’s tempo late on.
All the subs further showcased FGR’s ability to bring on players who not only slot in, but maintain the high standards.
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