by Steve Shaw

DOUG Loft has vowed to keep his forward momentum as he eyes his third goal in successive matches tonight.

The 23-year-old emerged from the bench to volley home Vale's equaliser in their 3-1 victory at Darlington.

Loft's contribution earned him a recall to Micky Adams's starting line-up on Saturday, when he netted in the 3-1 defeat by Northampton.

The midfielder said: "I was pleased to get forward, get my shots off and score on Saturday.

"The gaffer wants more from me defensively and I'm going to try to do that as well.

"But I am definitely happier going forward. I would say that is a big asset in my game.

"Earlier in the season I wasn't fully fit and couldn't get forward as much.

"When we have Anthony Griffith sitting in midfield he allows me to get forward more and there are chances to score."

Loft's injury-hit campaign has limited him to 16 league starts this season, but his energetic display against the Cobblers suggests he is finally hitting top gear.

"The Barnet game last month was my first start since early December and I tired in that game," said Loft.

"But playing against Darlington and Northampton has helped my fitness. I feel I can last 90 minutes now which is beneficial to the team."