A DVD brainstorming session is paying off for rejuvenated Forest Green striker Jon Parkin, according to boss Ady Pennock.

The former Hull and Cardiff City forward grabbed his first Forest Green hat-trick to push Rovers into the second round of the FA Trophy in a 3-0 replay victory at Southern League minnows Didcot Town.

Pennock said:“We had a chat about a month ago because I wasn’t pleased with him. We had a chat, did an individual DVD, sat down with him and I just wanted him to hold the ball up and bring people into play.

“He was having five or six touches too many and trying to do the hard ball. All he’s done is keep it simple and we and him are getting the rewards now.

“He has shown what we can do really in the last two or three games and why I have brought him in.

“I thought they were three very good goals. The first one was very special again.

“If you look through his career, and his goals, he does it a lot of times. Honestly he has got unbelievable ability for a big lad."

Pennock also reserved special praise for Academy midfielder Louis McGrory and  central defender Aarran Racine, who  came off the bench for his first slice of action after a nine months on the sidelines following knee surgery.

“It was great to see young Louis come off the bench and make his debut for us. And I’m unbelievably pleased as well for Aarran Racine because he has worked his socks off.

“I rate Aarran very highly. The last few months have been very tough for him.”

Rovers  now face a tricky away tie in the second round against either Vanarama Conference rivals Welling, or high-flying Conference South unit Ebbsfleet.

Pennock’s side face play-off rivals Grimsby Town on Friday and are set to travel today, Thursday and will train at Doncaster Rovers thanks to Pennock's friendship with Donny boss Paul Dickov.

Lee Hughes is expected to return to the squad following the birth of his daughter Freya on Monday. Rob Sinclair (groin) and James Norwood are also available, but Eddie Oshodi (broken hand) is out until the new year.