KANE Hemmings is gunning for a victory against struggling Oldham Athletic this afternoon to set Oxford United up for a charge towards the play-off places during the festive period.

The U’s are 14th in Sky Bet League One, but are only three points behind sixth-placed Peterborough United.

Several times this season Michael Appleton’s side have got into the top half, only to slip back.

But they head into today’s clash with the Latics on a five-game unbeaten run and Hemmings knows a home win would leave them well-placed ahead of the busy Christmas programme.

He said: “We have a big game against Oldham and if we win then you’re looking ahead towards the play-offs. That’s what everyone here wants.

“It would give us good momentum heading into the Christmas period, where there are a lot of games.”

United have the advantage of home comforts today, with six of their seven league wins this season coming at the Kassam Stadium.

Oldham come into the game on the back of Monday’s 3-2 Emirates FA Cup defeat at non-league Lincoln City and with only Shrewsbury Town below them in the table.

For Hemmings, the key for the hosts will be in the opening exchanges, with last month’s 4-1 win over Coventry City providing the blueprint.

He said: “If we start well, nine times out of ten I’m certain we’ll win.

“The Coventry game is the perfect example. Once you start a game like that it’s difficult for the opposition.

“Hopefully we can have another quick start on Saturday and put the game to bed as early as possible.”

Hemmings starred in the Coventry game, where he was on target with his seventh goal for United.

When his strikes in the Scottish League Cup for Dundee at the start of the season are taken into account, the striker is in double figures for the campaign.

Wes Thomas’s serious injury means there is more pressure on the 24-year-old to produce, but it is a burden Hemmings relishes.

He said: “I’m happy with the expectation. I don’t mind the responsibility on my shoulders – if I play games I’m certain I’ll score goals.

“I’m in double figures and it’s December, so I’m happy with that.

“I’ve popped up with a few goals lately so hopefully I can keep it going.”