BLUES midfielder Cav Miley wants his goal at Colchester United to be the start of him adding an extra dimension to his game.
The 27-year-old summer signing has hit the back of the net just nine times in his career so far.
But he is looking to start scoring more with the Shrimpers to stop being teased by his team-mates.
"It's something I've got to add to my game," said Miley.
"All week the gaffer, coaches and lads have been on me because my shots have been going into the trees in training to be honest but thankfully that one went in and hopefully I can start to get more now."
Miley came on during the second half of the 2-2 draw at the Community Stadium.
And he was encouraged by Blues' display.
"I thought we were the better team in the first hour and coming on for the last half an hour or so I thought we carried it on," said Miley.
"We probably deserved the win and I thought we were the better team.
"They put out a strong side but so did we and we held our own.
"Hopefully we can bring that into the season now."
The Shrimpers kick off the new campaign at home to Boreham Wood at the start of August.
But Miley is already feeling in good shape.
"It's been a tough pre-season but I feel great," said the midfielder.
"I'm feeling fit and the lads are flying.
"You could see it out there because I felt we dominated and it's all very positive."
Miley will now be looking to build on the promising performance.
But he knows he faces a real fight to be selected in the centre of the park.
"The squad is quite strong everywhere but in midfield there's Wes (Fonguck), H (Harry Taylor), Oli Coker has been unreal and it's the same with Noor but I think that's great for everyone," said Miley.
"You have to keep on working hard and perform well if you're going to get picked."
But Miley feels ready to impress after settling in well with the Shrimpers.
"I'm enjoying it," said Miley who had been with Eastleigh since 2017.
"I needed a fresh start and I'm thankful for the opportunity.
"It's a great bunch of lads and I'm staying with Dan Mooney which has helped me settle in.
"He's moved down so I'm staying with him and I get home a couple of days a week.
"It's good and I want to commit to having a successful season."
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>Blues boss pleased with pre-season showing at Colchester
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