League Two

Coventry City 0 Forest Green Rovers 1

KEANU Marsh-Brown’s 29th minute strike proved the difference in a huge game for Forest Green Rovers at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry, writes Noah Dougherty.

Marsh-Brown’s early goal would eventually win the game for Rovers’ first away win and first clean sheet in the Football League.

Forest Green created the first chance of the game after 10 minutes as Dale Bennett, after some good work through the midfield, which was blocked behind for a corner.

Moments later, Charlie Cooper’s free-kick from the edge of the area was the first shot on target.

Bennett found himself breaking down the right again after 17 minutes. This time, his cross made it into the area but it couldn’t quite find Isaiah Osbourne at the back post.

Forest Green continued to push and, just before the half hour, they got their reward. Toni Gomes set up Marsh-Brown in the centre and his powerful effort slipped through the grasp of Coventry goalkeeper Lee Burge.

Five minutes later, keeper Brad Collins was called into action at the other end. Flying to his left, the young stopper produced an excellent save to deny Michael Doyle.

From the resulting corner, Collins was once again needed to provide a save. This time, stooping to his right.

Confidence flowing, Marsh Brown tried his luck again after 36 minutes. This time, his effort deflected wide.

Coventry came out for the second-half with all guns blazing and it took a strong performance from the Rovers’ defence to keep them at bay early on.

The Sky Blues almost found the net with the hour mark approaching, striker Max Biamou missing a golden opportunity to head home from six yards.

Despite a spell of Coventry pressure, Rovers were not without chances themselves. Charlie Cooper tried his luck from a wide set piece, almost finding the top corner.

The home side might have levelled after 70 minutes but for substitute Alex Iacovitti who cleared Duckens Nazon’s effort off the line.

With only two minutes of normal time to play, Forest Green had a strong penalty shout. Omar Bugiel was played in and despite the appeals from players, staff and fans, the referee gave the decision to Coventry.

It looked to be a nervy end to the game as the fourth official put seven additional minutes on the board.

But, despite a late effort from Nazon, the Forest Green held on to claim an important three points in their fight at the bottom of the table.