Header a long time coming – Broom

RYAN Broom has scored 27 goals in his professional career and none of the first 26 were with his head, writes Jon Palmer.

However, he finally nodded one in to equalise for Cheltenham at Forest Green in Tuesday night’s Papa John’s EFL Trophy second round tie.

The Welshman also converted from the penalty spot to help the Robins through to the last 16 with a 4-3 shootout victory at the New Lawn.

Broom, pictured, smashed a leftfooted shot against the post in the first half and was close with another headed effort during a second half dominated by the away side, and the attacking midfielder was clearly enjoying himself amid the derby atmosphere.

“It’s been a long time coming, but I’ve finally scored my first header, so I am happy with that,” Broom said.

“I was delighted to score, especially at 1-0 down because we were knocking at the door with good spells of possession and lots of attacks.

“I felt really good and confident, so it was just about finding the back of the net and thankfully we did in the end.”

Cheltenham’s first triumph at the New Lawn was secured after Liam Sercombe, Elliot Bonds, Charlie Brown and Broom all scored from the spot.

Connor Wickham shot wide with Rovers’ second penalty and Luke Southwood pulled off a fine save to keep out Josh March to secure the win and send the 665 travelling fans home in jubilant mood.

“The fans enjoyed that and there was a big reaction from them with the goal and then the penalties,” Broom added.