I was lucky to catch most of  Gary 'Gazza'  Seward's interesting and impressive  pre- match preview in the Carol Embrey Suite.

Alfreton were analysed in depth and his knowledge of their players added another dimension to enjoyment of the game.

There was so much to look out for. In addition Gary, during a brief question and answer session showed a healthy ability to laugh at himself with some cheerful and rueful comments about his own disciplinary record. He gets top marks from me.

We know how good the team were against Alfreton on Saturday - but how good were we? Where was the supportive chanting? Where was the band?

We need to become a noisy supportive twelfth man. We are far from that at the moment.

If you were not at The New Lawn between 3pm and 3.45pm you missed something special.

The season has had a stuttering start, but against Alfreton the FGR machine went into overdrive. All over the field there was movement, understanding and fluent incisive play.

Above all there was a cutting edge. Three delightful goals were scored. Using the width of the pitch, and showing how the 4-3-3 system can produce exciting attacking play our boys showed their full potential, Alfreton were no mugs.

Above us in the league they had made a good start to the season. Nonetheless they were swept aside. I am picking our no-one for particular praise.

To use a modern phrase everyone 'put in a good shift'. The second half was different; Rovers were not the same force until Alfreton scored.

There were ten minutes left and in that time the home team again showed how good they were and could easily have scored twice more.

There were no mass protests to the referee - who was excellent - just the sight of well prepared players getting on with the job, and apart from half an hour in the second half that job was superbly done.

Two players are out on loan and following their fortunes will be interesting. First Paul Green. He would always be among my 16 selected for first team action. Described as a 'battler' when he arrived that is exactly what Paul is.

I hope he returns and contribute to our season - if not he will have the good wishes of us all.

The temporary move to Oxford is perfect for Saul Williams. At 19 he needs to be playing every week.

The experience of playing just one league below us is something from which he will benefit greatly.

Not yet a bulky player Saul, eloquently and accurately described by manager Dave "I've seen more fat on a greasy chip" will come back stronger in every way.

Engaging with the local community is something every professional soccer club needs to do and is something FGR are good at.

Saturday, September 11 will see a Grandparents' Day at the New Lawn for the visit of Halifax Town.

This is a logical extension of the work of Chris Gardner who for two years has been has been visiting a range of seniors groups.

Anyone interested should phone Chris on 07795 121020.