STRIKERS Paul Hakim and Simon Martin have strengthened their claims to hold off the challenge of Lee Clarke for the forward spots with strong displays. Martin opened the scoring against Eastleigh on Saturday with a superbly executed overhead kick

STRIKERS Paul Hakim and Simon Martin have strengthened their claims to hold off the challenge of Lee Clarke for the forward spots with strong displays.

Martin opened the scoring against Eastleigh on Saturday with a superbly executed overhead kick and Hakim then lobbed home a precise second.

Hakim continued his electric form with a stunning, all-action display against former club Bishop's Stortford on Tuesday, defying injury concerns to run the visitors ragged. City boss Steve Castle said: "I had a chat with Paul about not letting things get to him on the negative side too quickly and he has taken it on board. He worked his socks off. Goalscorers are a breed unto themselves, when they get a few goals they are different players and his confidence is brimming.

"Simon Martin has done himself the world of good as well. I am very pleased for him. He was superb along with Paul on Saturday."

The duo are likely to spearhead the City attack again on Saturday at student side Team Bath. The newcomers to the league are made up of full-time footballers following a course of study at the University of Bath. They made a flying start to life in the Blue Square South, scoring 14 goals in their first three games. On Saturday they were beaten 4-1 away at Braintree Town but showed good spirit on Tuesday to battle back from 2-0 down at Dorchester Town to secure a 2-2 draw. Castle is looking forward to the clash. He said: "Bring the next game on. They are a big strong team and very well organised but we will go there in a buoyant mood.