Forward targets run of games and goals over festive period

ALTHOUGH still waiting for his first career goal, Kayleden Brown will happily accept a lot more days like Saturday in the years ahead.

The 18-year-old made his third start for Dagenham & Redbridge against Carlisle and began in his favoured striking slot alongside Bas Savage.

However, after the hosts controlled proceeding early in the game, a tactical switch saw the West Bromwich Albion starlet (pictured left, centre) switched to the left of a five-man midfield, with fellow loanee Medy Elito on the right.

The move gave the Wales under-19 international license to run at experienced USA international full back Frank Simek, who he tormented all afternoon with raw bursts of extreme pace.

Brown’s constant threat eventually lead to Daggers breaking the deadlock on 81 minutes, putting the ball on a plate for Medy Elito to score at the near post, and also playing in Danny Green to make it 2-0 in the dying minutes of the contest.

“It was an excellent result,” said the delighted teenager.

“Not all the results went our way, but it’s another step to winning more games, building up the confidence to do it again and start hitting our stride. Hopefully we can go on a run now.

“We’re doing it for the fans as well. They travelled a long way so we just had to make sure they got what they wanted.”

While recognised as a striker, his rapid acceleration and ability to cross make him a natural candidate to play in wide areas.

With a five-man midfield proving successful away at Carlisle and Yeovil Town in recent games, it is a role he may now become more familiar with.

“I’ve played it for West Brom a few times so it felt kind of natural,” he said.

“I just made sure I did more defensive work to help out the full back.

“Also, one of the main aspects of my game is my power, pace and strength so it was good to test it out and see how it works!”

Before the weekend, Brown extended his loan until January 9, 2011 and he’s eager to make more of an impression in the five games over the busy Christmas period.

“The boys, the coaches and the fans are all nice,” he said.

“It makes me want to be here and there’s a good bond between the team.

“Now I want a few more games and a few more goals hopefully, plus a few wins.”