PAUL SHAW has blamed himself for the goal drought that had blighted his progress at Gillingham before Saturday's return to the scoring charts in the 2-2 draw at Nottingham Forest. The striker, who was in danger of becoming a £450,000 misfit following his move from Millwall two summers ago, doubled his league tally with Saturday's two-goal salvo that silenced critics.

Of Shaw's 14 appearances this season, 11 have been as substitute and the player admits he can have no complaints.

He said: "I've been out of the side because I've not been scoring. It's as simple as that. I was brought here for the job of scoring goals and it hasn't happened. Strikers are judged on their goals.

"I've been as disappointed as anyone by the lack of goals so it was so good to feel that buzz once the ball hits the back of the net.

"All credit to David Perpetuini for the first because he played in a great free kick while Marlon's pass set up the second."

Shaw admitted that he was more comfortable among three rather than two strikers and believes the change in formation can only help him. I prefer playing in a three, maybe just behind the front two. But I'm just glad to be back among the goals again. I got the two chances and was able to take them."

Player-manager Andy Hessenthaler admitted: "Paul is not an out and out striker and those goals will do his confidence the power of good.

"If he carries on playing like that, he's going to give me a big selection headache when Iffy Onuora returns from suspension."

But the Gills boss was angry with top scorer Marlon's needless booking for dissent six minutes from the end. It was his fifth of the season and rules him out of the home game against Portsmouth on Boxing Day.

Hessenthaler showed his displeasure by withdrawing King and replacing him with Robert Taylor.