ADAM Webster is backing himself and strike partner Leon Kelly to smash the 20-goal barrier this season in order to shoot Worcester City out of relegation danger.

The forward pair are expected to lead the line at Lancaster City's Giant Axe stadium tonight (7.45pm) as Worcester aim to protect their Nationwide North status by striking back-to-back victories.

City clinched a narrow win against Vauxhall Motors on Saturday and a repeat triumph over the Dolly Blues would put the St George's Lane club 10 points clear of Stalybridge Celtic in the relegation zone.

Former Bedworth United man Webster is convinced City will stay up and come strong again next season under player-manager Andy Preece.

Furthermore, the 24-year-old striker is hopeful of reaching 20 goals for the season to give Preece every reason to include him in his future plans.

Webster has struck 14 in all competitions this term, with Kelly on 16, and he scored in both of Preece's first two games in charge against Southport and Gainsborough Trinity.

"Twenty is a very nice total," said Webster. "I'm definitely looking to get more goals before the end of the season. If me and Leon can both get to 20, that would be good.

"To be honest though, I don't care if Danny McDonnell scores straight from a goal-kick as long as we win games. It would be nice though for a couple of the midfield lads to get on the scoresheet as a reward for their hard work.

"Jai Stanley and Nick Colley are always trying to get forward as much as possible and trying to get more goals. I spoke to Bazzer (Barry Woolley) and even he said he's due a goal."

Webster, just two away from his 50th City career goal, insists the guidance of former Bury, Stockport and Carlisle striker Preece will improve his game.

He added: "Now the gaffer is here, there is that competition for places up front and it makes you look over your shoulder. It will keep me and Leon on our toes.

"He's played up front for the majority of his career and got a lot of experience. When he pulls me and Leon to one side, he tells us where we can improve in certain areas and that's really good."

Though the surface at Giant Axe was hard this morning, overnight weather in north Lancashire was snow-free and no pitch inspection is planned.

City are expected to start with the same side that defeated the Motormen. Preece still struggles with a rib problem, while Shabir Khan (groin) returns.