Stroud Sport
Hockaday praises Shortwood
4:50pm Tuesday 21st February 2012
FOREST Green boss David Hockaday reserved high praise for Nailsworth-neighbours Shortwood United after John Evans’ side moved into the last eight of the FA Vase.
Forest Green and Shortwood made it a super Saturday as Hockaday’s play-off chasing side saw off Gateshead and John Evans’ Wembley hopefuls dispatched Ashington.
Hockaday toasted his side’s victory over Gateshead, but reserved high praise for Nailsworth neighbours Shortwood United who are now into the last eight of the FA Vase.
Hockaday said: “I am delighted for John and his team.
“I talked to him this week about a pre-season friendly and we wished each other well and generally wish them well as it is great for the area and a I hope they can progress even further.”
Rovers dented Gateshead's play-off ambitions last weekend. In a first half of few chances, the Tynesiders took the lead when Micky Cummins turned in Alan O'Brien's cross.
However, Tommy Wright was on hand to fire home the equaliser on his debut before the break.
Sub Liam Henderson then won it for Rovers in the second half.
Hockaday said: "I thought we looked rusty which you'd expect after a three-week lay off, but we've managed to get our way back into it.
Hockaday was delighted with the debut of midfielder Jamie Collins.
He said: "I thought Jamie Collins was immense today. He's a good leader and presence and kept things simple.
"At the end of the day we just have to start clawing our way up the league."
FOREST Green keeper James Bittner and striker Charlie Griffin have been loaned to AFC Totton and Salisbury City respectively until the end of the season.
Rovers travel to Barrow on Saturday (3pm).