Forest Green Rovers continue their march towards promotion out of League Two

Table-topping Forest Green Rovers proved too strong for an ineffective Newport County side in a keenly fought contest in Gloucestershire.

Goals looked a certainty in the game as the fixture brought together the two best-attacking sides in League Two this season.

Leading marksmen in the division also went head-to-head with County’s Dom Telford on 20 goals against Rovers’ Matt Stevens and Jamille Matt, who have scored 17 goals each.

The away section was full for the clash with many making the short trip from Gwent as both sides received a boisterous welcome on a windy day in Nailsworth.

The opening exchanges brought strong challenges from both sides with Newport’s right-back Cameron Norman setting the standard. Dangerman Telford was very close marked by the men in green and black and they looked to keep the in-form striker quiet. Ollie Cooper showed some nice moments of composure for County amidst the robust tackles as the men from Gwent began to settle.

The first decent effort came in the 19th minute and it was the home side who almost made the breakthrough as Stevens’ header went narrowly wide. Moments later, Newport’s Courtney Baker-Richardson also had a headed chance but his effort went straight into the hands of goalkeeper Luke McGee.

A scruffy tangle featuring the robust Norman brought an animated reaction from Rovers players and the full-back was in the thick of it again soon after as he charged forward.

The game was opening up now and you sensed a goal might come.

Kane Wilson ran the length of the pitch to set up an easy chance for Stevens from close range on 33 minutes as the forward put the hosts in front. Jack Aitchison really should have sent Rovers in at the break with a two-goal advantage but blasted the ball straight at Nick Townsend and passed upon a golden opportunity.

The blustery conditions prevented a free-flowing second half though the home side continued to hold the upper hand. Stevens should have made more of a headed chance on 56 minutes but made amends by nodding home a second goal on 62 minutes as the misty rain failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the home crowd.

Smart work by Townsend prevented a third soon after as County looked out of it. Jamille Matt also almost added to the score with an acrobatic attempt from a cross but was unable to add to his league tally.

County looked a frustrated outfit as the home side kept Telford under close scrutiny. Townsend was keeping the score down defiantly with a string of fine saves as Rovers looked purposeful and strong, though County did their best to continue the battle.

It had been an impressive display from the home side who overcame strong opposition in difficult conditions and the home supporters were more than satisfied with the performance.

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