FRENCHMAN Eric Sabin is looking for a swift 'encore' after finally breaking his Town goalscoring duck.

The striker could not hide his delight after netting Town's equaliser in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Brighton and swiftly dedicated the goal to Roy Evans.

Sabin said his 58th minute strike was an important psychological breakthrough as the first goal was always likely to be the hardest to score.

He said: "I wanted so much to score and it was a great relief to see the ball go in.

"The goal was Wayne Carlisle's as much as mine. He did most of the work and put in a terrific cross."

Although delighted with his goal, Sabin was furious with himself after missing an earlier chance.

He said: "I was very angry because we are not in a position where we strikers can afford to miss chances.

"We are in a delicate position and we need points.

"But it was a good way to end a difficult week and now we must look to build on the performance.

"Every match is important and we must look to play better in every match, not just against good teams."

As for waiting 11 games before netting, he joked: "Sometimes it's better to wait and take more pleasure from the moment when it finally arrives."

Sabin said the goal was a 'thank-you' to Roy Evans and all the Town staff and supporters who had stuck with him.

He said: "I want to thank the gaffer. He has never stopped encouraging me and lifted me when my head sometimes dropped."

As for the goal, the planned celebration went out of the window.

Sabin said: "I forgot. I will save it for the next one. It will be a surprise.

"But they say the first goal is the hardest one to score. Let's hope that is true."

Director of football Roy Evans is also hoping for a few more from the Frenchman.

He said: "Eric has not been at his best since coming back and he's been struggling for that sharpness.

"But he has worked at it. He had a great chance in the first half but couldn't quite finish.

"But in the second half he's got on the end of Wayne Carlisle's cross and we're delighted for him."

Town have confirmed that the match at Notts County next month will take place on Friday, December 21 (kick-off 7.45pm). Ticket prices have yet to be announced.