No target in mind for Hatters striker Marriott

The summer signing from Ipswich coolly beat Plymouth Argyle Luke McCormick at his near post from Paddy McCourt’s wonderful pass to notch his 13th of the campaign, leapfrogging Cameron McGeehan in the process.

However, when asked about a desired tally, Marriott said: “Me and Cam, we’re young, I like to think we’re quite exciting players, hopefully we can keep scoring and do our bit for the team.

“When I was on four or six, I wanted to get into double figures, but I never set myself an actual target, because then if I don’t reach it I won’t beat myself up too much.

“It’s nice to have something to aim for but I just prefer to try and score as many as I can.”

The 21-year-old might have netted earlier than he did, as set up by a pre-planned corner routine, he scuffed a shot wide of the target, saying: “I think I should have done better as my touch has taken it past the defender, but I was a bit wary of the defender getting a nick on it and I just snatched at it slightly.

“Then the defender blocked with his face earlier on too, but I still back myself to score any chance I get.”

Hatters boss Nathan Jones was delighted with his striker’s hot run of form, netting five in his last seven games, although doesn’t believe the youngster is finished yet either.

He said: “Jack’s part of a good squad, he’s in some good goalscoring form and I’m sure he’ll be the first to say he’s part of a team ethic.

“The ball Paddy put through to him the other day was borderline genius. He’s made a good run, we’ve got good players that can find him and he’s humble enough to admit that.

“But we’re delighted with his form, any striker to have the amount he’s got and we’re still looking for more.”

Marriott had started upfront alongside Craig Mackail-Smith, but was soon partnering Paul Benson after injury ended the former Peterborough United forward’s afternoon prematurely.

The youngster said: “We had a bit of height in the front line, so I could play off him, and flick ons I expect Benno to win them so when he does we’re in.

“It’s completely different, me and Macca we work hard, put defenders under pressure, but it just gives us another element going forward.

“I enjoy playing with anyone and having played with both of them this season, I enjoy both.

“I just try and do my bit for the team and know that hard work and endeavour will be rewarded, especially in this team and by the manager.”

Although Benson has only featured twice in the last six games, both from the bench, he impressed throughout as Marriott added: “He was superb, you know what you’re going to get from Benno.

“He gives 110 per cent every game that he plays and I know him very well. We get on very well on and off the pitch and I think that shows on the pitch.”