An embarrassing goalkeeping gaffe cost Avenue the points last time they took on Hucknall Town.

But boss Trevor Storton is confident that there will be no repeat when the Nottinghamshire side return to Horsfall Stadium tonight.

Just 213 spectators watched Rob Montgomery misjudge a 40-yard lob and fall back into his own net to gift the visitors the game's only goal last March.

But Storton believes the curse that struck the Avenue No 1 shirt at the back end of last season, and the beginning of this, has been solved by loan star Ross Turner.

The former Scunthorpe stopper has solved his manager's most difficult and consistent problem and Storton is hoping the month-long deal can become permanent.

Some of the £5,000 from Dean Calcutt's switch to Accrington Stanley should be available and Storton is hoping a price can be arranged with Turner's employers Worksop.

"This lad is a very good keeper," said Storton, who is still looking to add players to his squad.

"He is getting more confident with each appearance and we will be looking to try and keep him here.

"We also have Lutz (Pfannenstiel) back training with us and I am a lot happier with the goalkeeping situation."

Working from the back forwards, Storton is also pleased with his defence, with James Stansfield returning to fitness and the lanky Matt Daly steadily improving.

Storton believes Daly's stint on the bench did him good and is expecting great things from the defender picked up from Guiseley at the back end of last season.

Jason Maxwell is set to miss out on tonight's game again through injury with fellow striker Andy Hayward also a doubt.

Hucknall have only picked up one win this season, but remain unbeaten and Storton believes they will prove tough opposition.

"It will not be an easy game," he said.

"They are a tough side to play against. But as I have said before, on our day, we can beat anybody in this league.

"We were unlucky against them on both occasions last year and there is nothing you can do about that."

In terms of points, Avenue's start to the season is on another level to last year's dismal autumn, but Storton believes they are not necessarily playing any better.

"I think we played better football last year," he added.

"But luck really went against us.

"You pick players capable of doing the job but you can't

stop individuals making mistakes.

"But things are coming along nicely. We are a top ten club at the moment and I still hope to improve the squad."