Pav gunning for victory!

Aug 5 2005 By Mel Booth, The Huddersfield Daily Examiner

PAWEL ABBOTT aims to gun down Nottingham Forest tomorrow with manager Peter Jackson backing him to be Town's 30-goal strike inspiration this season.

The 23-year-old frontman - designated as first-choice penalty taker - heads to the City Ground (3.00) with five pre-season goals under his belt and a passion to lead Town to victory in front of 3,500 travelling fans.

Jackson put his 18-man squad through some set-piece drills on the Galpharm pitch today in readiness to face Gary Megson's title favourites, and the manager is confident Abbott can help Town score a fifth successive away win.

"I certainly don't need to wind the players up for tomorrow because they are all raring to go, and Pav is definitely looking to pick up this season where he left off last," said Jackson, whose senior squad will train on Sunday whatever the result.

"He has looked fit, strong and sharp in pre-season and I certainly wouldn't back against him scoring more goals this season than the 27 he got last time."

Jackson is expected to give starts to new signings Martin McIntosh and Mark Hudson, while keeper Phil Senior (groin) took part in a half-hour practice match yesterday and is included in the squad.

"It's a big test and a tough match, let's make no mistake about that, but there's no bigger incentive than to think of beating Forest on opening day in front of 20,000-plus," explained Jackson.

"We need to keep it tight, especially early on, but we are going into battle determined and full of confidence."

Tickets can be bought at the City Ground office tomorrow.