JACK Payne will be aiming to unlock Shrewsbury Town from open play for the first time this season as Oxford United look to gather momentum at the Kassam Stadium.

The Shrews are Sky Bet League One’s surprise package so far, winning their opening three games after battling against relegation last season.

Their strong start has been based on a defence which has conceded just twice in the league, both from the penalty spot.

Payne hit the crossbar as United’s own winning start came to an end with a 1-0 loss last weekend at Scunthorpe United.

The attacking midfielder believes the first goal of his loan spell is close, but is more concerned about creating chances for others to find a way past Shrewsbury in open play.

He said: “Hopefully we can change that.

“They have started well, but we’ll be looking to end their run.

“I know the goals will come. Saturday would be a great time to start, but if the strikers are scoring and the team’s winning that’s all that matters to me.

“I want to assist them and lay on chances, but I can’t do that without their movement.

“They look to stretch the game, which is important because it gives me space and when I’m on the ball they make some good runs, which is perfect for me.

“It’s working well and it’s exciting.”

United’s only home league game this season was a terrific 3-0 victory against Portsmouth, in front of more than 9,500 supporters.

A positive result against a side who boast a 100 per cent record this season would be another step in the right direction to making the Kas-sam Stadium a tough venue for visitors.

Payne said: “I think any team that does well is usually reliant on their home form.

“We want to make the Kassam Stadium a fortress where teams don’t want to come.

“It was a great performance and the fans helped us.

“They came in good numbers and hopefully it’s the same at the weekend and we put on another show for them.

“Shrewsbury have started really well but we have to focus on ourselves.

“We’re at home and also in good form. Hopefully we come out on top.”