IT was a privilege for Penny and I to present two-goal Forest Green captain marvel Jon Parkin his deserved man-of-the-match ward on Saturday.

We sponsored the game and chose JP for three reasons. Firstly his goals, then for a vital goal line clearance in the second half, and lastly for a sensible and timely act of captaincy.

The impetuous Kurtis Guthrie had pushed an opponent after being badly tackled and was booked for retaliation. He was clearly angry with both the tackle and booking. Along came Jon, placing an arm round the shoulder and giving Kurtis some words of wisdom.

This is exactly the sort of thing that JP is capable of, on and off the field.

The Altrincham fixture seemed very much a bread and butter fixture, but instead of a fish paste filling we enjoyed something much more tasty, well seasoned and spiced.

Rovers were on top from the start. Kurtis Guthrie flicked on a throw in and Jon Parkin, all determination and drive did the rest.

Eighteen minutes later a firm header from a corner doubled the lead and Jon’s personal tally. More goals seemed likely. Elliott Frear and Keanu Marsh-Brown were pacy and elusive on the flanks.

Manager Ady Pennock had reverted to a 4-4-2 formation and the pacy Guthrie was restored to his central role. He was always a danger, being happier there.

Rovers were in total control, but as half-time neared there was a blip. Dale Bennett was badly fouled and retaliated, the result being a red-card.

David Pipe is a more than adequate replacement as he proved in the second half.

In order to accommodate David who was needed in the right-back position Marsh-Brown was substituted. He was very unlucky, having recovered his form and desire. He was a constant danger when on the pitch.

Facing 10 men Altrincham played with more purpose in the second half, but could not worry Steve Arnold in goal. Charlie Clough excelled in defence having his best game in a Rovers shirt.

Using his pace to block shots and his determination to win so many unlikely headers he was a genuine contender for man-of-the-match. So was Elliott Frear whose pace and availability always made him a genuine outlet.

The second half brought two red cards for Altrincham. First one for two bookings, both deserved so no complaints there. The second was for a firm and illegal tackle on Kurtis that certainly merited a yellow card, but the referee thought otherwise.

Perhaps he should have taken conditions into account and been more tolerant. Rovers had no difficulty in controlling the game and now head for Oxford.

This will not be easy, United have lost just one at the Kassam Stadium and have conceded just seven goals in home matches. Undoubtedly they are a good side but so are FGR.

We go there with game changes on the field and on the bench. Ability, determination and character shine through the squad.

They will not be overawed and neither should we. Cheltenham was just practice. Oxford will see us in full voice, making it an occasion that all of us can enjoy.

I hope the only obstacle encountered will be the road works on the A40 approach. Motorists beware. Half-an-hour can be added to the journey.