Predator

9:10am Thursday 24th July 2008

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PRE-SEASON predator Ivan Forbes is desperate to see the Magpies realise their potential next season.

The Portuguese forward netted his fourth goal in five games when he slotted past England's number one David James on Monday night in Dorchester's 1-1 draw with FA Cup holders Portsmouth.

Forbes, who only managed two goals in all competitions last season, was delighted with his 83rd minute equaliser.

He said: "It was one of the best feelings I've had in football so far - an amazing feeling. The ball came over from Roy O'Brien and I didn't expect the defender to let it go.

"Then I looked up and saw big David James, but I just tapped it through his legs. There are no words to describe how I was feeling.

"It was pleasing to see the fans celebrating as well. After the disappointment of last season when things didn't go so well we want to come back and show what we can do - and so far so good."

Forbes has also been impressed with the calibre of player that manager Shaun Brooks has attracted to the county town club this summer following the Magpies' reprieve from relegation.

He added: "Most of the players brought in have played at a higher level than a lot of us. This is only my second year playing professionally after coming from a semi-pro club, so I haven't played with the likes of Kevin Hill and Nick Crittenden before.

"They bring a lot of experience and it has been good."

"Ryan Moss is big, strong and always works hard while Jamie Mudge has a great touch.

"It was awful last season - everything - including Shaun's illness. But we've got to bounce back from it and I think it's looking good."

A Dorchester XI lost 1-0 at Portland United on Tuesday night but so far, the Magpies' first team have yet to lose a pre-season friendly.

Forbes said: "This year the club has brought in more experienced players than last season and it looks good.

"We played Weymouth last Saturday and beat them which hasn't been done for a while. We've come up against some good teams in the likes of Weymouth and Portsmouth but we've done well.

"I'm looking forward to the new season. If we keep playing well and play to win every game who knows? Maybe we could even win the league - but we will see."

* The Magpies will be holding a Fans' Forum at the Jewson Stadium tonight. Supporters are invited to attend and are asked to arrive at 6.30pm for a prompt 7pm start.