Wembley remains firmly in view for Shrewsbury Town after they were today handed a home tie in the Area semi-final of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

Paul Simpson’s side will meet either Brighton or Swindon at the Prostar Stadium in the week commencing December 15.

Shrewsbury average three goals per League game on home territory and will be confident of making progress as they prepare to take on League One opponents in the competition for the first time this season.

Victory in that game would take Shrewsbury within a two-legged Area final of reaching Wembley.

They will learn the identity of their opponents on Wednesday night when Brighton entertain Swindon in the last outstanding tie of the Southern quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, striker Grant Holt is eager to transfer his form in the Trophy to Town’s League Two campaign as well.

The £170,000 record signing has seven goals to his name in the competition, having bagged five in the 7-0 romp at Wycombe and another two in the 5-0 home thrashing of Dagenham & Redbridge on Tuesday.

But he has been outshone in the goal stakes by midfielder Ben Davies when it comes to League Two games – and is eager to turn that around.

“I am here to score goals and it’s a good tally,” said Holt. “I just need to start turning my cup form into League.

“I think it’s six in the League now – and I want to start getting a few more and climbing up the charts.

“I’m happy with the way it’s gone. The team has performed well and I’ve managed to chip in with a good chunk of goals.

“If I can get 20 by the end of the season, I will be delighted. If I get 25 even better, but if I get 15 I will still be happy,” he added.

“As long as this club gets promotion and I’m part of that, that will do me fine.”

By James Garrison