Buoyant Shrewsbury Town striker James Collins today set his sights on retaining his stranglehold over leaders Chesterfield – as the countdown to this weekend’s big clash begins.

Collins has already struck twice against the League Two table-toppers this season.

The 20-year-old found the net for Burton – where he spent the first half of the season on loan – in a 2-1 away victory at Chesterfield in League Two before repeating the feat when the two sides met in the FA Cup, a tie which the Brewers won 3-1.

And now, fresh from his first two goals for Shrewsbury in Tuesday’s 3-1 victory at Accrington, Collins is eyeing a Spireites treble.

“I can’t wait for Saturday,” said the excited former Aston Villa man.

“It’s a big game and I have enjoyed playing against Chesterfield so far this season so hopefully we can continue that.

“The great spirit that is in the camp shone through on Tuesday night and now all the lads are looking to push on with a good run of better results.”

While Collins was slightly disappointed not to wrap up his first senior hat-trick at Accrington — a late effort flew just over — the forward was delighted to make an early impression on the scoresheet at his new club

“It was great to get off the mark,” he added.

“I had some frustrating times in my first couple of games not scoring so it’s nice to put that to bed.”

Boss Graham Turner, whose search for new recruits continues ahead of the weekend, revealed he has been pleased with the efforts of Collins and fellow youngster Tom Bradshaw, who have been given the nod ahead of Matt Harrold and Jake Robinson over the last three games.

“James took his goals well on Tuesday and both he and Tom Bradshaw have put in a lot of effort and endeavour,” added the Town boss.

“They don’t give defenders a minute on the ball or let them settle. And the result is they wear them down — which is what happened on Tuesday.”

By JAMES GARRISON