Forest Green Rovers secured a dramatic late victory over Eastleigh at The Bolt New Lawn, extending their unbeaten run thanks to a goal deep into added time from substitute Tom Knowles.
The first half was a fragmented affair, characterised by a number of cautions. Eastleigh manager Kelvin Davis received an early yellow card for dissent, reflecting his team’s growing frustration as Forest Green dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances. Abraham Kanu and Tre Pemberton of Forest Green, and Aaron Pierre of Eastleigh, were also booked before the interval, underscoring the fiercely contested midfield battle. The half concluded goalless, with neither side able to break down their opponent’s defence.
Both managers looked to inject fresh energy into their teams at the break. Forest Green introduced Yahya Bamba and Harry Whitwell, while Eastleigh brought on Louie Holzman and Harry Whitwell, in an attempt to shift the tactical balance. Initially, however, the substitutions failed to significantly alter the pattern of the game, which remained a tight and cagey contest.
As the second half unfolded, Forest Green continued to press, making a further change in the 54th minute, replacing Isaac Moore with Tom Knowles. Eastleigh responded with a double substitution, introducing Josh Lundstram for Kieron Evans. The game began to open up slightly, with both teams displaying a greater attacking intent.
Further substitutions followed, with Forest Green bringing on Harry Cardwell for Neil Kengni in the 72nd minute and Ryan Inniss replacing Kyle McAllister in the 81st minute, seeking to bolster both their attacking and defensive capabilities. Eastleigh also shuffled their pack, introducing Connor Underhill for Jake Taylor in the 74th minute, Sonnie Davis for Josh Lundstram in the 84th minute and Freddie Ingram for Aaron Blair in the 85th minute, as they searched for a late winner.
With the clock running down, the match appeared destined for a goalless stalemate. However, the game was turned on its head in the 94th minute when Tom Knowles, a second-half substitute, found the back of the net. The late goal sparked scenes of jubilation among the Forest Green supporters.
The final whistle blew shortly after, confirming a hard-fought victory for Forest Green. Knowles was then booked in the 100th minute.
The win sees Forest Green maintain their position at the top of the National League standings, adding another three points to their impressive early-season tally. For Eastleigh, the defeat represents a setback after their recent run of good form, leaving them in mid-table.