FA CUP dreams turned to nightmares, but league form came surging back!

It was a very mixed week for Forest Green Rovers. The replay against Oxford was a grim and glum affair. The team showed all the failings of the Morecambe defeat, especially the forwards. The tone was set in the first minute when an inviting cross came in from the left. No-one made a realistic challenge. We were clearly off the pace and remained there all night. Our outing in this fine competition came to a meek and miserable end.

Manager Mark Cooper was honest after the game, concerning the performance of the team and admitting he had a tough task to raise them up for the game on Saturday. He hinted at changes. He was bold and brave but totally correct. Carl Winchester moved back to midfield. Ben Morris led the line their being no place for front men Reid, Campbell or Archibald. From kick-off Rovers were on top, giving their 116 travelling fans plenty to cheer. Morris was buzzing and soon stung Carlisle with his first senior goal.The 2-1 victory was a credit to the reconstructed team , but for manager Mark it was a triumph. In a short space of time he had worked wonders with the make up of the team, and its mood. He was the man-of-the-match. Now for Colchester. The league shows how tight matters are and how valuable a win will be . The players will be up for it and we should give them total vocal support. A special cheer for manager Mark would not come amiss either.