Forest Green v Newport predictions: Rovers could make Newport pay

Free football tips, best bets and analysis for Forest Green Rovers v Newport County in the League Two playoff semi-final, second leg on Sunday

Where to watch

Sky Sports Football, 6.30pm Sunday

Best bet

Forest Green
2pts 8-5 Coral

Team news

Forest Green
Dan Sweeney, Nicky Cadden and Jamille Matt returned from injuries in the first leg but Elliot Whitehouse remained sidelined. Ebou Adams is available after suspension.

Newport
Joss Labadie (knee) missed the first leg and Lewis Collins picked up an injury and was unable to finish the game.

Match preview

Newport were worthy 2-0 winners at home to Forest Green in the opening leg of their League Two playoff, semi-final but they failed to put the tie to bed and could face a backlash in Gloucestershire this weekend.

Michael Flynn's side impressed on Tuesday with Matt Dolan's stunning opening goal providing the highlight, but they wasted some good opportunities to increase their advantage and Rovers may be ready to respond thanks to the recovery of three key players.

Forest Green's top scorer Jamille Matt and key midfielder Dan Sweeney came off the bench in south Wales and, with the benefit of a further four days of preparation, both could be pushing to make the starting line-up.

The midfield ranks are further boosted by the availability of Gambia international Ebou Adams, who has completed a two-match suspension.

Forest Green are likely to be a lot stronger and have the backing of home fans for the first time since December, when the extra noise contributed to victories over Cambridge and Carlisle.

Of their returning players, former Newport striker Matt could have the biggest influence.

He has notched 16 goals in 36 league appearances this season including both matches against Newport - a 1-1 draw in Nailsworth and a 2-0 success at Rodney Parade.

A lack of fitness could be an issue for the 30-year-old but he made a difference when coming off the bench in the first leg and his physical presence could unsettle Newport, who may be required to fight tooth and nail for a passage to Wembley.

Key stat

Newport have failed to win any of their last five away fixtures

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