Forest Green 0-1 Crewe

A decent work out against Blue Square Premier Team Forest Green, Crewe put out a strong side to play the Gloucestershire based club. The game kicked off in beautiful sunshine and no sign of rain or floods.

The new ground, called the New Lawn is impressive and will look better on completion of the stand behind the goal in late August, early September. The game against Crewe was Forest Green first home friendly of the campaign, they will also face Bristol City and Swindon in the next week.

The objective of the evening was a clean sheet and despite some nervy moments we held out for a clean sheet and a 1-0 victory courtesy of Steve Schumacher`s 34 minute half volley from close range.

After a sluggish start by Crewe we began to get in to the game and the goal came about from some decent support play by Gary Roberts. After the goal it seemed as if Crewe went in to defensive mode.

Under Steve Holland`s tutelage, it does seem as if an emphasis on keeping clean sheets is being adopted. Last night`s game was by no means perfect but a decent run out for the squad.

The 2nd half saw a whole host of changes in personnel for both sides, as the game petered out like the Gloucestershire sunshine. The clearest chance of the 2nd half was when youngster Byron Moore was denied a clear penalty by referee Brendon Malone.

At the end in typical Crewe fashion we were hanging on victory as Forest Green launched a barrage of corner kicks and long throw in`s. The final whistle sounded and players can be happy with the win and the clean sheet against a spirited and determined Forest Green side.

Starting XI: Ben Williams, Dan Woodards, Ryan Lynch, Danny O`Donnell, Chris Mccready, Gary Roberts, Neil Cox, Ryan Lowe, Steve Schumacher, Byron Moore, Nicky Maynard.