Rovers return to Conference (From Gazette Series)

Rovers return to Conference

FOREST GREEN are back in the Nationwide Conference.

As expected, the Conference AGM reprieved Rovers from relegation, but also relegated Northwich Victoria to the Nationwide North.

Trevor Horsley and The Lawn's top brass attended the meeting at the Hilton Hotel in Birmingham on Saturday, where Rovers' return was rubber stamped.

Forest Green issued the following statement after the reprieve: "We can now proceed towards our long term objectives with renewed confidence, with continued support of sponsors and fans."

Rovers had been allocated to the North section after finishing 20th last season. Northwich Victoria, however, do not have the appropriate lease on the Victoria Stadium. A new company had been formed, and it has the lease.

However, the FA did not sanction the transfer of membership from the old company to the new one.

Meanwhile, Forest Green boss Gary Owers is searching for a new goalkeeper after allowing Dean Williams to leave The Lawn. Williams follows Steve Perrin out of the Nailsworth club and leaves Owers without a keeper. The Rovers manager is unlikely to make a move for his former Bath City team-mate Paul Evans - but admits he has spoken to ex-Cheltenham keeper Steve Book.

"I have spoken to Steve Book, but I've also been speaking to other keepers."

Meanwhile, popular midfielder Scott Rogers has committed himself to Forest Green for another season.

Owers is set to name a new assistant, with Shaun Taylor - who missed out on the Rovers job - tipped to come into contention after leaving his coaching role at Bristol City.

Owers confirmed that coach Mike Davis has left the club, and former Cheltenham Town defender John Brough is now set to sign for Aldershot Town.

FOREST GREEN will make the short trip across the Valley to play Hellenic Premier Division Shortwood United.

Gary Owers' side will travel to Meadowbank on Tuesday, July 19. Before that Rovers go to Southern Premier Division Weymouth on July 16. Rochdale travel to The Lawn on July 23, followed by Swansea on July 26. A mix of League One players and Ashton Gate juniors will make up the Bristol City XI on July 30.

Rovers complete their pre-season with trips to Southern Premier Division Cirencester Town on August 2 and Yate Town on August 6.

Forest Green Friendlies: Saturday July 16, 3pm, Chalford (away); Tuesday July 19, 7.30pm, Shortwood United (away); Saturday July 23, 3pm, Rochdale (home); Tuesday July 26, 7.45pm, Swansea City (home); Saturday July 30, 3pm, Bristol City XI (home); Tuesday August 2, 7.30pm, Cirencester Town (away); Saturday August 6, 3pm, Yate Town (away).