It's sink or swim time for Rovers (From Stroud News and Journal)

It's sink or swim time for Rovers

IT'S crunch time for Forest Green as their Conference future goes right down to the final day against play-off chasing Stevenage Borough for the last ever match at The Lawn this Saturday (3pm).

The Lawn will take a heart-wrenching last bow in the most thrilling and somewhat farcical circumstances witnessed in the Nailsworth side's long history.

Incredibly, Rovers could be relegated, but then saved from the drop for a second season due to other clubs misfortunes.

Altrincham are now bottom after having an 18-point penalty slapped against them for fielding an ineligible player. Canvey Island are set to withdraw from the league, while Scarborough are also facing problems which could lead to them being forced to quit.

At time of going to press, Forest Green were due to travel to Woking last night (Tuesday) and may beat the drop if they beat Woking and then defeat Stevenage on Saturday.

However, a defeat at Woking would leave Rovers eyeing the forthcoming Saturday results of relegation rivals Tamworth, Scarborough and Southport.

Speaking ahead of Tuesday night's clash at Woking Owers said: "Six points from two games would make us safe. If not we will be relying on other results."

Stevenage will certainly be a tough nut to crack, but Owers is pleased his side will go toe-to toe against a side looking to confirm a play-off spot. Owers added: "Stevenage will come and have a go which would certainly suit us."

However, Owers is set to be without striker Julian Alsop, who is ranked as a major doubt after aggravating his long-term ankle injury.

***

Last day events at The Lawn

THE winner of the Stroud News/ Forest Green dugout competition is Alex Jones from Frampton, Alex, 10, will be on the bench with the management team for the final nerve-jangling 90 minutes.

u FANS will be given the opportunity to take penalties during the half-time interval at The Lawn this Saturday and win up to £500.

Fans will need to buy a pint of Mansfield from The Barn. A raffle ticket will be handed out and the winner will be drawn to take five penalties. Each penalty is worth £100.