The Bolt New Lawn played host to a hard-fought English National League encounter between Forest Green Rovers and Altrincham, which concluded in a 1-1 draw. Despite periods of home team dominance, Altrincham took the lead before Rovers rallied after the interval to secure a share of the points.
Altrincham began the brighter of the two sides and were rewarded for their early pressure in the 11th minute. Oliver Crankshaw found the back of the net, assisted by Jimmy Knowles, to give the visitors a crucial early advantage.
Forest Green Rovers, however, gradually found their rhythm as the first half progressed. Despite creating several opportunities, they were unable to find an equaliser before the interval, going into the break trailing by a single goal.
The second half saw a tactical shift from Forest Green Rovers, with Tre Pemberton introduced for Tom Knowles in the 53rd minute. This change appeared to inject fresh energy into the Rovers’ play. Their persistence paid off in the 58th minute when Jayden Clarke scored to level the match at 1-1, with Jili Buyabu providing the assist.
Following the equaliser, the game intensified, becoming more open and end-to-end as both teams pushed for a winner. Altrincham made further tactical adjustments in the latter stages, introducing Josh Grant, Tylor Golden, and Kahrel Reddin. However, the Forest Green Rovers defence held firm.
As the match entered its final minutes, referee Matthew Scholes issued several yellow cards in a fiercely contested conclusion. Jake Cooper and Kahrel Reddin were cautioned for Altrincham, while Laurent Mendy and Jili Buyabu received bookings for Forest Green Rovers.
Despite the late pressure and a flurry of added-time activity, neither side could find a decisive goal. The final whistle confirmed the 1-1 draw.
The draw sees Forest Green Rovers remain in fifth place in the English National League standings, with 55 points from 28 matches played. Altrincham sit in 17th position with 27 points from their 27 games.
