Goals from Aaron Collins and Jamille Matt secured all three points for Forest Green Rovers against Cambridge United in Sky Bet League Two.

Head Coach Mark Cooper made three changes to the starting eleven from the midweek Papa John’s Trophy exit. Jayden Richardson and Chris Stokes returned to the line-up – while Dom Bernard made his first league appearance since mid-October.

Buoyed by the return of supporters to the innocent New Lawn, Rovers started the game on the front foot. Collins nearly put the home side into an early lead before dragging his effort wide – followed by a low Nicky Cadden cross which was intercepted by United defender Robbie Cundy.

Mark Bonner’s side managed to have an early chance on the counterattack. Paul Mullin capitalised on a loose ball in the middle of the park to chip his attempt onto the crossbar, before Luke Hannant saw his follow up attempt blocked inside the area.

With the majority of possession in the first half, FGR really went up a gear in the closing stages. Odin Bailey picked up a superb through ball and fired his effort at United stopper Callum Burton. And minutes from time, Collins guided another long-range strike wide of the mark.

The second half was only five minutes old when Mark Coopers charges had another opportunity. A quick free-kick routine allowed Bailey to swing in a cross into the box for Rovers lead marksman Matt – but the striker nodded his attempt directly at Burton.

Moments later and Rovers were rewarded for their determination, duly taking the lead. Bailey managed to thread the ball through for Collins, who, one-on-one versus Burton, took the ball around the United stopper to net his third goal of the campaign.

An impressive ending to the first forty-five really set Rovers up for a rapid second half start – and the hosts doubled their advantage just after the hour mark. Ebou Adams was bundled over under a challenge inside the box – and referee James Oldham pointed to the spot. Up stepped Matt to send Burton the wrong way and net his eighth league goal of the season.

Forest Green XI: McGee, Bernard, Sweeney, Stokes, Adams, Collins, Cadden, Matt, Bailey, Godwin-Malife, Richardson.

Unused subs: Thomas, Wilson, Stevens, Whitehouse, Wagstaff, Bunker, March,

Cambridge United XI: Burton, Knoyle, Digby, Taylor (May 71), Darling, Hannant (Iredale 83), Mullin, Dunk, Hoolahan (El Mizouni 83), Cundy, Davies (Knibbs 71).

Unused subs: Mitov, Worman, Neal.

Referee: James Oldham

Man of the Match: Aaron Collins

Attendance: 799