GOALKEEPER Nicolas Caraux hopes his performance against St Mirren last week was enough to see him start the season as Jim Duffy’s No 1.

The Frenchman and glove rival Derek Gaston fought it out for a starting spot last term, with the pair getting close to equal game time over the course of the campaign.

New Morton boss Duffy has been impressed with both shot stoppers in pre-season and recently admitted he was yet to decide on his first choice.

But Caraux’s burning ambition means he is desperate to pick up where he left off in last Saturday’s Renfrewshire Cup final when Spartans come to Cappielow today.

He told the Tele: “The match against St Mirren was disappointing because the derby is a special game. Everybody wanted to win. But despite the defeat there were good things we could take from it. It was a good performance and we must continue that way while erasing small mistakes.

“It was an interesting game to play in. I thought we played well and that was good to see.

“Personally, I think I had a good game with some important saves.

“Not everything was perfect but I think it was a still a good performance. The first save, I think, was the most important because it gave the team more confidence. There was also a save where I had to dive at feet several times.

“The ball was slippery because of the rain and whenever I took the ball the striker kicked it. But I caught it in the end.

“We play Spartans today and it will be a difficult game against a motivated team. We must be serious, focused, show our strength and make the game easier with our motivation.

“I’m not sure who will start against Spartans. The manager has given myself and Derek equal playing time in pre-season to show what we are capable of.

“Derek and I are friends. We work hard every day together and help each other to progress. We have a friendly rivalry.

“But, of course, I want to play today. I have worked hard and had a good game against St Mirren; I’m doing my job. But, who should play is the manager’s decision.”