WINDSOR striker Daniel Roberts has explained he felt at home playing for Slough Town in the National League South on Saturday, writes Rob Stevens.

Roberts, 20, has been in fine form for Windsor this season having scored 31 goals in 38 games and was rewarded with the chance to sign National League forms with the Rebels last month.

The striker was given an unexpected start in their match against Hemel Hempstead Town at Arbour Park but he took the opportunity with both hands and was named the supporters’ man-of-the-match.

Roberts told the Observer: “I loved it and felt comfortable straight away.

“All of the boys helped me. They’re very experienced, a lot older and have played at that level for quite a long time.

“After I touched the ball a couple of times it was just free-flowing and chances were coming. On another day there might have been a couple of goals but overall I loved the experience.

“Getting the supporters’ man of the match was a big boost as well because it shows you’ve proved yourself at a certain level. I’m glad of the reaction.

“The first time always comes with the most pressure but I think I did well.

“I looked after the ball when I needed to, got at people and on another day might have had one or two goals.

“Slough were without a win in eight games so they were looking for a little bit of excitement up front and I liked the challenge of being that person.”

“I might not have scored in the game but I feel like I was a big part of the win, playing 75 minutes.

“To get a first win in eight matches is pretty important to get back on track and move in the right direction.

Roberts added: “Lee Togwell is a coach as well as a player at Slough. He puts on very good sessions on a Thursday and I’m learning a lot already.

“I’m getting involved, getting on the ball more and growing in confidence.

“Neil Baker and Jon Underwood (joint-managers) have shown confidence in me straight from the start and they believe in me.

“To get my first start already after signing a month ago now is just a bit crazy. I didn’t expect it but they showed confidence in me and I tried to fulfill that.

“I’ve always felt comfortable technically but the physical side of it, the tempo and intensity, would take a bit to get used after playing at this level.

“It’s a step up in intensity and tempo, but five minutes into the game I was able to pick up how quickly things are moving.

“The minds of the players are different because they see passes that others can’t

“It took five or 10 minutes but once I got there I felt at home and comfortable playing.”

Roberts will continue to feature for Windsor this season and is expected to lead their attack in the Hellenic Challenge Cup semi-final tie away at Almondsbury from Division One West this Saturday (3pm).

The striker is locked in a battle with Stephen Robertson (33 goals) from Wantage Town to become the top scorer in the Hellenic Premier Division, and he hopes Windsor can continue to help reach his personal targets this season.

He said: “I’m two goals behind the top scorer but have a couple of games in hand over him.

“I want to score 40 goals this season and finish as the top scorer, that’s the main thing.

“Hopefully the amount of games that I will play for Windsor between now and the end of the season will allow me to do that.”