BEN Cranfield may have already equalled last season’s goal tally, but he is frustrated by the ones that have got away.

The Felixstowe & Walton United striker has had EIGHT goals disallowed for infringements or offside so far this season.

Cranfield scored his second hat-trick of the season for the Seasiders in last Saturday’s 3-0 win at Brantham Athletic in the Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division.

The 28-year-old striker also netted a treble in the 4-1 win at home to FC Clacton in manager Kev O’Donnell’s first game in charge.

Cranfield has now scored an impressive 19 goals in 21 games in all competitions this season.

The ex-Colchester United striker returned to Felixstowe & Walton last season after taking a year out, and for the first time in his career failed to hit his 20-goal target.

But he feels fitter and mentally sharper this season, and is revelling in the added responsibility of being captain after taking on the arm band a month ago.

Cranfield paid tribute to wide players Remi Garrett and Jamie Cole for the role they have played in his goal output this season.

“It has definitely been a team effort. The amount of assists this season I have had from Remi and Jamie, our wingers, has been unbelievable, and I am really grateful to them for that.

“My target was initially 20 for the season, but I have now revised that, although I will keep that figure close to my chest!

“I have had eight goals disallowed for infringements or offsides, which is very frustrating.

“Although it is nice to be on 19 goals, I could have had several more.

“The gaffer is very demanding and is pushing me and the team to our limits. If I score 25 he will want me to get 30 and if I score 30 he will want 40.

“I know Kev from my Needham Market days. Although he is very demanding, there is something about him that makes you want to impress him week in and week out, and if you don’t perform consistently he will drop you.”

After a poor start to the season saw manager Steve Buckle and his assistant Gary Thompson removed from their posts, the Seasiders are steadily climbing the table under O’Donnell.

Five wins, one draw and three defeats in his nine league games in charge have seen Felixstowe, who entertain Wivenhoe Town on Saturday, rise from rock bottom to 15th place.

“We have aspirations to finish in the top ten, but to do that we will have to find more consistency,” added Cranfield.