A hat-trick for Bobbie Dale in Cinderford Town’s 7-0 home win over Bashley last Saturday took his total to six goals in five appearances for his loan club.
The 19-year-old striker has made one substitute appearance for Cheltenham Town this season and he is hoping his prolific form for John Brough’s Foresters side can put him back in the first team picture at Whaddon Road.
Dale, who signed a contract to the end of next season before Christmas, was initially keen to play higher than Southern League Division One South and West level, having spent time at Bath City in Conference South earlier this season.
“I was a bit sceptical about going to Cinderford at first, but I have started enjoying my football and when that happens I tend to score goals so it’s been good so far,” Dale said.
“John Brough first brought me to Cheltenham Town when I was 15 or 16 and there are quite a few lads I know there from the youth team so it’s been very easy to settle in.
“The level you are playing at is important, but just getting games is the key, scoring goals and keeping myself sharp.”
Youth team graduate Dale felt he was close to breaking into the senior side earlier this term, under both Mark Yates’ and Paul Buckle’s management.
But current boss Russell Milton has told his youngsters that experienced heads will be needed to haul the club out of relegation trouble and Dale is happy to look at the bigger picture.
“It’s been a good season at times, but also a frustrating one at others,” he said. “At one point I felt right in the mix, but new players have come in and I understand that.
“I have a new contract which means I don’t have to worry about next season and I can concentrate on working hard, learning and progressing now.
“I know Russ really well from the youth team and I’ll definitely be looking to push on under him and hopefully I’ll get my chance.
“He has had to bring in experience to help the situation and keep the club up.
“I was happy with what he said to me and I know you can’t put all the responsibility on young lads, so at the moment I am happy to be getting 90 minutes and playing week in, week out.
“It’s important we stay up and we should with the players we have. Next season hopefully I can push on and it’ll be in League Two.”