Eco Power: How Forest Green Rovers are taking League Two by storm
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Forest Green Rovers became the first carbon-neutral club in world football in 2018. And the latest signs suggest the Nailsworth outfit could also be set for sustainable success on the pitch.
They’ve certainly generated energy in this season’s title tilt, with experienced boss Mark Cooper looking for a second promotion in three seasons with FGR.
Just three points off the automatic spots ahead of Saturday’s trip to Oldham Athletic, we take a look at whether the Green Army are en route to League One.
Doidge back in the ranks
After a difficult stint at beleaguered Bolton Wanderers, FGR’s Wembley wizard Christian Doidge is back at the Ecotricity Stadium. And the return of the goal-machine who scored to deliver EFL football to Gloucestershire will give everyone a lift.
Despite the club finishing 22nd during their first season at this level in 2017-18, the Welshman racked up 20 league goals in 42 outings. Returning to a much improved squad this month, he could be even more prolific.
Playing alongside Doidge also brought the best out of veteran Reuben Reid last term. And the 33-year-old could improve on his hit-and-miss displays this term by reuniting with the pacy and clinical Doidge.
Bruising backline hard to break down
There may be no beef burgers on the menu at FGR, but the Rovers backline are certainly capable of a meaty challenge.
Centre-back pairing Gavin Gunning and Farrend Rawson are a formidable duo. Both players are pretty imposing, with the experienced Gunning playing the role of organiser.
Out wide, Liam Shephard has been a creative revelation at right-back. He’s bagged three goals from out wide, including a late winner at Exeter City in October.
As it stands, FGR can boast the league’s fourth-best backline. They’ve been especially ruthless on the road – as it stands, they’ve picked up League Two’s highest points total (25) on their travels.
The Odds
Saturday sees FGR head to Boundary Park to face an up-and-down Oldham side. Their last five games have included a 6-0 loss at Carlisle United, and a 2-1 FA Cup win over Fulham.
We go 21/10 for Cooper’s side to take all three points, while the Double Chance: FGR or Draw is 6/10.
In the longer term, the Eco-friendly outfit are 5/2 to power up with promotion. Meanwhile, they’re a chunky 28/1 to go up as League Two champions.
Click here for the latest League Two odds.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
