5 things we learnt: Swindon Town v Forest Green Rovers

SWINDON TOWN crashed out of the Carabao Cup at the first hurdle after succumbing to one goal defeat against local rivals Forest Green Rovers. TotalSport Swindon's Ryan Walker gives his analysis on '5 things we learnt' following the match.

Experience in defence is needed

Phil Brown has stated his desire to bring in an experienced centre-back and last night’s goal was a clear example of why another defender is still needed. Despite a good performance, Sid Nelson’s inexperience in the build-up to the goal arguably cost Swindon their place in the Carabao Cup second round.

Dion Conroy’s frequent time on the sidelines is a concern for Brown and his desire to bring in another CB is based on recent results. Olly Lancashire needs a regular partner in the heart of defence but it’s important Town bring in an experienced player with a track record of good performances instead of recruiting another player with potential.

Swindon can’t keep relying on Doughty to score goals

A brilliant performance from Doughty could have only been topped off with a goal from the midfielder, however his inability to score highlights Swindon’s reliance on Doughty to score goals. He has scored four goals already this season, but Town’s other players need to start chipping in with goals as well.

Striker Elijah Adebayo is yet to get his season off the mark and despite good all-round performances, strikers are judged on their goal-scoring capability. Swindon knows how to create opportunities, but finishing must be improved.

Joe Romanski could be Swindon’s best left-back

At just 18-years-old, Joe Romanski has certainly got a big career ahead of him. Starting at left-back last night, Phil Brown admitted that the youth academy product has got the ability to go far in the sport. His pace and ability to get forward on multiple occasions causes problems for an opposition, whilst his tactical awareness and defensive capabilities make him a trusted member of this Swindon squad.

The more minutes played will only increase Romanski’s on-pitch maturity and it would be no surprise should he become a regular starter for Town this season.

Swindon need to capitalize on opportunities

Swindon started the match with the ferocity and hunger to win last night’s match comfortably, and at half-time home, fans were left wondering how their side hadn’t had scored. Their ability to create openings is a big positive for the team, however, their lack of being able to take the lead in matches is a negative.

When Forest Green went in front there was a sense that even though Swindon had dominated throughout, the visitors were always going to score first. Phil Brown has got his side playing some eye-catching football and hopefully, more goals will follow soon.

Refereeing needs to be consistent

Forest Green’s single goal took them through to the next round of the Carabao Cup, but a poor refereeing decision in the lead up to the goal could have been the deciding factor. Phil Brown’s animated frustration on the side-line was justified as referee David Webb made poor decisions in the most crucial stages of the match.

There has often been widespread criticism that refereeing throughout league football isn’t consistent enough, and last night was a clear example of this. Poor decisions from the referee can’t be used as Swindon’s excuse for losing the match but it certainly didn’t help the Robins.