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COUNTDOWN TO KICK-OFF: Thomas eyeing big goal return
Simon Thomas powers a header towards goal. Picture: Leigh Page - Credit: Archant
Striker Simon Thomas has set the bar high in his first full season with St Albans City.
The big centre-forward joined the Saints from Chesham United in March 2015 and scored two goals in six appearances, impressing as a target man and relegating John Frendo to the bench.
This season, with the benefit of a full pre-season with the team, he wants to hit double figures.
“I want to contribute 15 to 20 goals and see where we go from there,” he said.
His new strike partners, Billy Medlock and Louie Theophanous, will have a big say in how many times Thomas hits the net. He’s been impressed with both throughout pre-season and thinks their versatility as a group gives them an edge.
“Louie has just come in but you can see what kind of player he is; he’s got great hold up play, great feet, he’s a strong lad as well and got a goal-scoring touch about him,” said Thomas.
“Billy can hold up the ball but he also gets in behind, gets his shots off quickly and links up really well. All three of us bring something different to the table so I think it’s a good combination.”
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As the only forward retained from last year’s squad, Thomas figures to be the focal point of the attack. It’s a role he is prepare to take on.
“I hope to be. That’s more my game; I like the physical part of it, beating up defenders. That’s what I hope to do and bring to the table – that’s what I was brought here to do. Hopefully I can do that this season,” he said.
Looking ahead to the Gosport Borough game on Saturday, Thomas scored on the day in St Albans’ 2-1 win and he is confident of getting another three points off Alex Pike’s team.
“I’m looking forward to it,” he said.
“We beat them to kill their chances of the play-offs [last season]. They are going to be gunning for us but we’re going to get the three points.”
