Lutz Pfannenstiel's Dunedin Technical went down 2-0 to Tauranga City United last weekend in the former Avenue man's first game as player-coach. And although the German's initial impact in New Zealand wasn't quite what he was hoping for, the goalkeeper left behind is glad the former Bayern Munich man has vacated the No 1 jersey.

"Of course I am delighted to get a chance at the No 1 spot," said Jamie Holmshaw, who now wears the green shirt with

pride.

"Everyone wants to play regular first-team football and this could be my chance."

Holmshaw, who arrived on a complicated loan deal from Stocksbridge Celtic, stood in for Pfannenstiel against Lancaster and Stalybridge following the German's flu overdose at Worksop and near-death experience against Harrogate.

But even though the colourful character has since departed, he has left a legacy at the Horsfall Stadium.

"I have done a lot of work with Lutz in training," said Holmshaw, who has played with Worksop Town before arriving at Bradford.

"He was a great keeper and also seemed to know what he was talking about when it came to coaching.

"There are a lot of things I can now add to my game that he has taught me. I will be working hard on those over the coming weeks and would like to thank Lutz for what he has shown and taught me."

Holmshaw made a vital save at the back end of Saturday's tie at Gateshead to ensure the game remained at 1-1 and is hoping to keep a mistake-free run going.

In his opening two games he struggled with crosses, dropping one at Bower Fold and missing a cross against Lancaster for their only goal.

But that is behind him and he is looking to add to the clean sheet kept against Harrogate last week.

"After every game I lie in bed at night thinking about every goal and what I could have done differently," said Holmshaw.

"It is not that I dwell on mistakes but it is important to think about performances and how you can improve on them.

"I have got my chance now and I am determined to make the most of it."

And boss Trevor Storton is impressed with his new man in the nets.

"I think Jamie can be a very good keeper," said Storton, described by Pfannenstiel as his "real-life hero".

"He has come in here and now he has got a chance I think he can be good for us." Holmshaw is seen by outfield players as being as good a shot-stopper as his German predecessor but a lot calmer.

He has a massive kick on him and is proving increasingly capable dealing with high balls, as demonstrated in the north-east at the weekend.