Griffin sparkles (From Stroud News and Journal)

Griffin sparkles

Nationwide Conference York City 1 Forest Green Rovers 3

CHARLIE GRIFFIN may have his critics, but yet again he proved the doubters wrong with a clinical hat-trick which could prove to be the pivotal turning point in Forest Green's relegation dogfight.

Griffin banked his treble on 62 minutes to take his tally to nine for the season, and with it earned Rovers their second victory of the season.

Alan Lewer included left-side player Andy Watson on a month's-loan from Chester City, but was minus Steve Cowe ,who has departed to Redditch and Craig Loxton, who has returned to Bristol City.

Youth team keeper Scott Windle was named on the bench in place of the injured Danny Greaves.

The benefit and togetherness that has followed daytime training is gradually paying dividends.

It took Rovers just 73 seconds to go ahead when Stuart Roberts' cross was nodded in at the far post by Griffin.

York rallied somewhat but Griffin made it two on 24 minutes.Dean Williams' kick saw Mark Beesley strike blocked, but Griffin fired the free-ball home.

All too often Rovers have relinquished leads this season, but a new found resolution is coursing through Lewer's side.

Defensively sound the platform was set. Three minutes into the second half the excellent Adam Garner's last ditch tackle denied Lee Nogan as Rovers showed their collective intent.

Griffin's hat-trick arrived on 62 minutes through the creativity of strike partner Beesley, leaving Griffin to bundle in at the far post.

Scott Rogers was close to a fourth as his 25-yard drive was superbly pushed away by York keeper David Stockdale.

York looked for consolation, but Garner cleared off the line from a Kevin Donovan strike. However, York struck deep into stoppage time through Andy Bishop after Williams blocked Levente Yalcin's initial strike.

Forest Green: Williams, Lyttle, Richardson (Holloway 67), Garner, Reed, Roberts, Gadsby, Rogers (Cleverley 81), Watson, Griffin, Beesley (Davies 89).

Subs Not Used: Green, Windle.

Goals: Griffin 2, 24, 62. Att: 2,132 ).

Star performer: Charlie Griffin.