Key Highlights
- Luton Town to host National League side Forest Green Rovers in Emirates FA Cup first round.
- Jack Wilshere’s Luton Town will be entering the competition for the first time since 2018/19 season.
- Forest Green Rovers advanced after dominating Worthing in fourth qualifying round.
- Tickets available on general sale, and fans can watch live on TNT Sports or listen to Simon Pitts’ audio pass.
Luton Town vs Forest Green Rovers: Match Preview
On Friday, 7.30pm, Luton Town will host National League side Forest Green Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup first round at Kenilworth Road, with the match live on TNT Sports.
Background and Context
Luton Town are entering the competition for the first time since 2018/19 season. The Hatters will be looking to make a strong start under manager Jack Wilshere’s leadership. Meanwhile, Forest Green Rovers advanced after dominating National League South side Worthing in the fourth qualifying round.
Matchday Timetable and Fan Information
Fans attending can enjoy 25% beer, wine, soft, and hot drinks from 5pm to 6pm. Tickets are available for purchase if you want to experience a night under the lights in LU4. Our UK and Ireland based fans can watch live on TNT Sports, while international fans can listen to Simon Pitts’ live audio by purchasing an LTFC+ audio pass.
A poppy wreath will be laid by the dugouts before the turnstiles open for this fixture, with a poppy badge also on our shirt.
More remembrance plans will be made in collaboration with Stockport County at the next fixture on Saturday 8th November. A bucket collection will take place before kick-off on the Kenilworth Apron.
Supporters traveling to Kenilworth Road on Friday night should note that Hatters Way will be closed between Chaul End Lane and Telford Way from October 27 to October 31, 10pm to 5am. A diversion via Chaul End Lane and Dunstable Road has been arranged.
What the Managers Said
Jack Wilshere stated that Forest Green Rovers will show their ability to play at a higher level but warned his players about giving them time and space as they can hurt you. He also mentioned watching three of Robbie Savage’s games this week, saying he knows the team well.
Rossie Savage praised Jack Wilshere for getting an opportunity at Luton Town and wished him all the best while stating that they are going there with belief to cause an upset.
Opponent Analysis
Forest Green Rovers currently sit fifth in the National League, just two points behind leaders Rochdale. After play-off heartbreak against Southend United last season, Steve Cotterall was relieved of his duties and replaced by Macclesfield manager Robbie Savage.
The first 13 league games of the season came with no losses for FGR, but back-to-back defeats against leaders Rochdale and contenders Carlisle United left Friday night’s visitors outside the top three. Despite this, they responded with a win against Boreham Wood last weekend.
Previous Meetings
The two teams previously met in 2018 at Kenilworth Road when Luton celebrated their return to League Two status with goals from Danny Hylton, Olly Lee, and Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu. In the last match before this fixture, Luton Town beat Brighton U21s in the Vertu Trophy knockout stages, with a first-half brace by Jerry Yates setting the wheels in motion for the match.
A 16-year-old debutant, Fin Evans, smashed the record as the youngest Luton Town player to score a senior goal. Fans attending will have the opportunity to see their team in new home shirts.
Conclusion
Luton Town Football Club is committed to providing safe match-day experiences for all supporters, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation. The club encourages fans to enjoy the game positively and calls on them to report any discriminatory abuse through various channels provided.
The match between Luton Town and Forest Green Rovers promises to be a thrilling encounter in the Emirates FA Cup first round. Fans are advised to secure their tickets early and prepare for an exciting night at Kenilworth Road on Friday, 7.30pm.
