goal-scoring gear on Saturday with a hat-trick in the in the first half against Wigan Athletic.

The English Second Division side beat Wigan 3-0 as Goater netted goals in a span of 13 minutes -- between the quarter and half-hours marks -- with the last coming from the penalty spot to take his tally for the season to four in six league and cup games.

"I'm happy to score the hat-trick because prior to it, going into our sixth game, I only had one goal,'' said Goater, who led the City scoring last season with 25 goals.

It was Goater's fourth hat-trick as a pro in England.

"The hat-trick puts me back on track at a goal every two games. They say it's one of the quickest hat-tricks seen at Bristol City.'' City are one of the promotion favourites again this season and the victory gives them a 2-1-1 record from four league games and puts them sixth in the standings.

"Last year we honestly believed that was the case with us so I'm a bit reluctant to tempt fate this time,'' said Goater.

Still, some important signings -- including a couple of strikers Colin Cramb and Steve Torpey -- has strengthened their squad in every department.

"We have a good team with some good additions coming into the team,'' said Goater. "I would like to think the players coming in are as good or even better.'' Even Goater knows his place is not certain with the increased competition for places. Torpey was signed from Swansea while Cramb was Doncaster's top scorer last season. Both are battling to be Goater's strike partner.

"I can't take anything for granted,'' Goater acknowledges. "What I did last year is there for me to try to maintain.'' Soccer, Page 24