After a turbulent start to their first stint in League One, Forest Green Rovers are beginning to find some good form, with two wins in their last two games, including a Gloucestershire Derby win against Cheltenham Town.
To prepare for a season that they knew would be their biggest challenge yet, Rovers brought in 16 new signings, including five loan signings, all coming from The Premier League, Premier League 2 or Championship.
This new inclusion of young talent has given Forest Green a much-needed boost of quality if they hope to survive in League One, after their dramatic League Two title win on the final day last season.
Three of these loanees, in the form of Oliver Casey from Blackpool, Harry Boyes from Sheffield United and Myles Peart-Harris from Brentford, all played a huge part in their 1-0 derby day win on Saturday.
Rovers’ goal came in the 75th minute, when Boyes’ free-kick met the head of Peart-Harris to give his side a historic victory, while the remaining 15 minutes consisted of a fine defensive display, with Casey putting in a heroic performance in the heart of the back line.
Forest Green boss, Ian Burchnall, was the first to praise his loanees, stating how big a role Peart-Harris had on the victory and in the season.
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“I think Myles [Peart-Harris] has been brilliant, he had a little period out the team and he had a set back from that which you get as a young player on the first loan, but he’s responded so well to it.
“He’s knuckled down and done some great work in training […] we’re seeing the best out of him and his performance today was brilliant.”
The new players have made an impression of all those watching and covering Forest Green, including GlosLive reporter and BBC Radio Gloucestershire commentator, Josh Evans.
Evans was keen to highlight the various qualities that the three possess, showing his admiration towards Casey’s heavy involvement in the team.
“I don’t think Olly Casey could’ve imagined playing such an important role in Forest Green’s season when he first arrived, but he’s made a great impact.
“A solid, dependable centre back who is trusted in the centre of the three in Jordan Moore-Taylor’s absence, he has really earned his place and will leave the boss with a decision to make when [Udoka] Godwin-Malife/Moore-Taylor are fit.”
Whilst Boyes has not had the same immediate impact as Casey and Peart-Harris, Evans believes there is a great player waiting to come out.
“He’s got a real gem of a left foot, but defensively has been left wanting at times.
“Still more to come from Harry Boyes I feel, a real natural in the left wing back position will mean he’ll play a lot of games if he stays fit, a great chance to make a name for himself.”
Rovers now look forward to an away trip to Derby, with Burchnall and fans alike hoping that their loanees can continue their fine form.
