THERE were warm smiles from Forest Green manager Mark Cooper on Saturday. Firstly he was wearing a splendid coat, well able to keep out the Nailsworth cold , but mainly because they had played splendidly in beating the division form team Crawley.

The match, played on a fine February surface and well referred provided first-class entertainment. Most importantly the rebuilt Rovers team had completed the game plan to the letter. This disciplined and streetwise side, who can deliver.

Mark had analysed Crawley correctly. Knowing they could break quickly he asked his players to defend deeply and prevent Crawley from getting behind the defence.

Apart from a few first-half forays they did not. This deserved victory was crucial. All teams below us won in a division which anyone can defeat anybody.

There are no pushovers and there will be more freak results.We must just keep on picking up points.

Cirencester Town are doing exactly that. All seemed lost at Larkhall but right at the death they salvaged a draw after being 3-1 down . Credit must be given to veteran striker Alan Griffin who in addition to leading the frontline well is scoring goals. His form and fitness are a credit to him and an example to his team-mates.

There has been sad news for cricket this week with two leading English players giving up Test and County cricket in favour of the white ball game. I do not blame the players and fear others may follow. The future of the County Championship needs addressing immediately or in 20 years time it will not exist. In high summer it has already gone.