Rovers fail to Capitalise

Scott Dash named five changes from last week's defeat to Colney Heath, with Debayo, Mensah, Johnson, Quigley and reserve team captain Ronayne coming in.

Rovers were fortunate to have the strong wind with them for the first period, giving Wielblad and Johnson lots of running to do. The first 15 minutes Rovers had more of the ball but not testing the FCR net.

The hosts opened the scoring just before the half hour mark, a through ball for Coker set him free on the right where he evaded two Rovers challenges before slotting past Knox into the bottom corner.

The lead only lasted ten minutes; following an excellent goal line tackle at one end, Rovers had the chance to counter. Dahie carrying the ball where he put through Wielblad on the right who unleashed a powerful shot past the FCR goalkeeper who got a hand to the strike, but couldn't prevent the 18 year old's third of the season.

The hosts were back in front shortly after however, Coker taking his chance once again as his powerful volley found the near corner this time.

Wielblad was forced off at the break with an ankle injury, which introduced Hayford for his first appearance in just under two months.

There was hope given for Rovers just five minutes into the second period, Johnson put through on goal before he was pulled back by Fagan. The host's centre back was given his marching orders; Hayford's resulting free kick sailed over the bar.

Similar to last week's match at Colney Heath, Rovers failed to build on their efforts early in the half, with the extra man not showing any clear advantages. Brown and DeMatos were introduced, with the latter having Rovers' best opportunity but he dragged his effort across goal.

The game was wrapped up on 82 minutes, a mix up between Dahie and Chirimuuta on the right ended with Stylianides having a low strike on the edge of the box into the bottom corner.

Rovers slip a place into the relegation playoff position to 18th, with 2nd placed Berkhamsted visiting Hillgrounds this Tuesday.

Photo Credit: Local Bus Driver