Bristol Rovers tasted defeat on the opening day of the League One season as twice Forest Green went in front to claim a 2-1 win at the Memorial Stadium.
Regan Hendry beat goalkeeper James Belshaw with a cross-hit shot from outside of the box a minute from time to give Ian Burchnall’s men a winning start on their debut in English football’s third tier.
FGR had taken the lead through Jordan Moore-Taylor who scored in the 55th-minute with a header that he had made space from himself from a corner.
Last season’s top scorer Aaron Collins picked up where he left off from to equalise for the Gas after a change in formation in shape but an effort against his former side was all in vain.
The Gas’ wait for an opening day win continues to almost 11 years, whilst it is nearing 21 years since they won at home on the same event.
It was also their first home defeat since the turn of the New Year, having not lost at the Mem since a 2-1 defeat to Port Vale back in December.
Rovers remain without a win against Forest Green in the Football League with their last win coming in the National League play-offs back in May 2015.
The league standings place them in 20th after one game played with next week's opponents Burton Albion suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat to last season’s losing play-off finalists Wycombe Wanderers. There waere also defeats for Barnsley, MK Dons, Oxford United, Fleetwood Town and Cheltenham Town.
Here is the thoughts of BristolWorld in how we thought the players fared in their opening day defeat to against Forest Green
1. James Belshaw - 7
The Rovers shot stopper performed well on his league one debut, making a number of standout saves including stopping Jamille Matt from giving his side the opener with an incredible save, yet couldn’t do anything about the goals. Photo: Naomi Baker/Getty Images
2. James Gibbons - 6
Making his debut, the right back had fans on their feet when his clearance at the back post kept the scores level, however often found the Forest Green attackers running into the space behind him. Photo: James Gill/Getty Images
3. James Connolly - 7
The defender martialled Jamille Matt well and looked solid beginning life as a permanent Bristol Rovers player. Photo: Pete Norton/Getty Images
4. CB: Luca Hoole
Playing in a new position at centre back, the youngster lunged at the ball in the first half stopping a certain goal and didn’t look out of place in the heart of the Rovers defence. Photo: Pete Norton/Getty Images