"WE BELONG ON THE SAME PITCH AS THE TOP SIDES.”

Wealdstone produced a stirring performance at The Vale on Saturday afternoon, earning a hard fought and fully deserved 1–1 draw against league leaders Forest Green Rovers. In atrocious conditions and against a side packed with quality, the Stones showed character, resilience and no shortage of quality to claim a valuable point.

Forest Green arrived five matches unbeaten, top of the table and showcasing the style and energy of Robbie Savage’s hungry side. Their status as former Football League members and one of the division’s biggest budgets made this a daunting test on paper. But from kick-off, Sam’s squad respected the challenge without ever showing fear.

Sam Cox spoke to Head of Media Joe Campbell after the match.

“We knew it was going to be a tough challenge, but we didn’t fear them and that showed today.”

The Stones went into the break 1–0 down, though the first half had been competitive throughout. Small tactical tweaks were needed, especially around when to press and how to close central spaces in the heavy conditions. The message at halftime was clear: we’re still very much in this.

“It was a good first half… we just needed a few tweaks. The message was that we were very much still in the game.”

Sam praised his midfield duo, Aygemang and Kadji, for adjusting brilliantly after the break, helping the Stones tighten the middle of the park and dictate more of the game’s tempo.

The second half performance was exceptional: disciplined, hard-working and increasingly dangerous. The equaliser came after sustained pressure, with forward Micah Obiero bundling home from close range.

“Definitely Obiero’s goal. He deserved that. His work rate is unbelievable… he runs his socks off and today he got the reward.”

Obiero’s tireless efforts have become a hallmark of the side and the crowd’s reaction made it clear how much his persistence is appreciated.

As always, goalkeeper Dante Baptiste delivered. Time after time this season, he has produced crucial saves at crucial moments and Saturday was no different.

“We keep talking about him because he deserves it. He trains like a top pro, carries himself like a top pro and he’s playing his best football.”

“When we’re in trouble, he gets us out of the mud.”

Baptiste remains one of the league’s standout performers this season.

Cox emphasised the importance of contributions from across the squad, not just the starting XI.

“When we make changes, the game doesn’t dip. We stabilise things or even make them better. Huge credit to the group as a collective.”

“The effort this group are making, through injuries and suspensions, is excellent.”

With depth being tested, the unity and commitment of the entire squad were clear to see.

Wealdstone have now lost just two league games at home all season and much of that resilience owes itself to the growing connection between team and supporters.

Nearly 1,600 fans braved the driving rain to back the boys from first whistle to last.

“They’re brilliant. These boys are trying to match the energy our fans give us.”

“When the supporters are on our side, we’re a real force at The Vale.”

The atmosphere was electric even in miserable weather and the manager made clear how much that backing matters.

Taking a point off the league leaders is more than a morale boost, it’s further proof that the Stones can compete with anyone in the division.

“We’ve been competitive in every fixture. This performance shows we belong on the same pitch as the top sides.”

“We just need to take it game by game and keep improving.”