Darlington Under 18s to take on Arsenal - Help Sponsor the Trip

Trust Vice President Craig Liddle has been having tremendous success with the Youth Team, who are now taking on the might of Arsenal. Liddle, aware of the importance of the game, is seeking sponsorship for the overnight stay for the trip.

The Trust has been a major backer of the Youth Team and, working with some of our friends from DAFTS, we are appealing to your generosity again to help us raise further cash to help with this trip. You can make a donation of any amount you feel fit by using the PayPal button below and we will pass it straight on to Craig to ensure that the Youth Team have every opportunity to prove their skills against their Premiership rivals:

HELP SPONSOR THE YOUTH TEAM VISIT TO ARSENAL

Alternatively, if you would rather send a cheque, please make it payable to:

'Darlington FC Youth Development'

and mail it to us at the following address:

Youth Team Appeal, Darlington Supporters Trust, P O Box 178, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 7AG

We guarantee that 100% of your donation will be passed straight on to Craig Liddle's Youth Team account

Thank you in advance for your contribution, no matter how small - every penny counts

Give us your watch, Fergie.....

What we need is a watch which runs on Sir Alex Ferguson time . . . you know, the one which ends a match at 90 minutes when we’ve got some points in the bag; and the one which extends a match until we equalise or win (adding at least 15 minutes until we do so). Obviously, this watch was left out of the Darlo kit bag against Wrexham as the winner occurred four and a half minutes into three minutes of injury time.

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“The Humph” didn’t get The Hump over that late goal, he’s put on his Quaker Hat and moved to the top of the Come On Darlo Prediction League with his latest eight-pointer, now on 71 points. Christian Fox managed to scrape three points together and moved back into second place on 69 while Martin Cass drops back to third on 68.

Wayne Gibson’s max score has given his rather aptly-named team “Next Goal The Winner” a boost into the top regions of the table – on 48 points in 27th place. Frank Mann is now on 43 in 61st with Ethan Vallis not far behind on 42. Gary Elliot now has 37 in 108th spot, Ruth Woods on 34 in 125th, Karen Sheen has 29 in 159th and Gary Parle has moved away from relegation hell on 20 points in 188th place.

Other top scorers: Alf Hutchinson, Andrew Hodgson, Brian Main, Chris MacKenzie 3, David Sheppey 2, Deadly Doug, Edward Cundick, Jean Johnson, Jilted John, Jonny Simpson, Keith Appleton, Kevin Kidger, Mark O'Neill, Mike Cleasby, Paul Hodgson, Paul Soderman, Peter White, Richard Tilly, Steve Duffy 1, Steve McGarvie, Tim Hewitson, Toby Corum 1, Will Caslon.

Latest Prediction League Standings

But things have stirred at the fag end of the league, David Sheppey hitting a home run and moving off the bottom – now replaced by Chicken George, with Toby Corum in attendance.

Pete

Didn't we used to be the millionaire team in town???

So the millionaires of Crawley came to town . . . and came a bit unstuck!!! And as we know only too well, having loads-of-money doesn’t necessarily guarantee success. And neither if your opponents are down to ten men for more than half of the game. It was a fighting 1-1 draw which so easily could have been a win if a good penalty shout had been given . . . mind, with our penalty record so far this season, who knows?

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It’s been backs to the wall for our leaders, too. Another blank game for the top three, but still hanging on to those positions. But Garry Mann and “Bogie” (someone said African Queen, but that’s his business!) have now closed to within five points of top spot on 63.

And it’s definitely been Ladies’ Day (or it would have been if t’interweb was working at the time) - with no fewer than seven correct score predictions – Lorraine Arscott is top mover on 61 points in seventh place (form is temporary, class is permanent?), Rhonda Fleming ain’t doing too badly either on 48 in 19th place, Susan Weston just behind on 47 and Laura Drew’s not far back on 45. Gillian Percival and Jane Lucas have climbed away from relegation hell on 29, whilst Jean Johnson has just managed to get her fingernails back on the precipice – now on 20 points in 184th place!

T’other superior types with eight points are: Chris MacKenzie 2, Dame Dickson, David Alderson, David Rice-Oxley, David Welton, Dean Martin, Ian Bonsall, James Longstreet, John Baskerville, Martin Raison, Martyn Cripps 1, Mick Moriarty, Neil Raper, Paul Hodgson, Paul White, Peter Ashmore 1, Raymond Percival, Russell Jones 2, Stephen Nicholson, Steve Mann, Steven Metcalfe, Will Caslon, Will Caxton.

And if the top three haven’t woken the scorer, neither have the bottom three . . . strangely becalmed on their respective number of points. Once you’re in that trough, it can be difficult to get out.

Our first mini-league have reported: Quaintly titled “Stop the Cass’s”, it’s strangely reminiscent of “Stop the Pigeon”- but just who is this mini-league’s Dick Dastardly . . . and who is Muttley? So far, Martin Cass is top pigeon – not just in the mini-league but overall, too. Dame Dickson (ma’am . . . doffs hat) is top Dastardly on 58 points with not-so-Dastardly Mark Stephenson on 49. Mike Cass is on 45 and Paul White on 44, while Billy Cass heads both Keith Appleton on 39 and Paul Dickson on 38. And these eight are all in the top half of the table . . . but the mini-league’s Muttleys are Martyn Maidstone on 36 and Stephen Dickson on 27 . . . no medals for you guys!!!

Check out the latest Prediction League standings
Want your mini-league mentioned? Get the name and list of members into me on this email address.

Pete

Wey Hey!!! We’re back . . . at last!!!

Technical problems beyond our control have now been resolved . . . I would have emailed you all to let you know, but it was the tinterweb that was ever-so-slightly broken. But we’re back in business now.

And so it seems are Darlo, who have followed up good wins with this 1-0 home victory over Tamworth . . . not pretty but the looping header brought in all three points.

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And as you’d expect from a 1-0 home win, every man, woman and their dog cashed in. But it was Martin Cass who benefited most, claiming top spot in the Come On Darlo Prediction League. Martin’s the man at the moment on 68 points with his latest maximum score and knocking past leader Christian Fox from his perch (lair?). The Foxster is on 66 points along with Richard Collin. Steve Calvert is still hanging in there on 62. These four have a seven-point gap between them and the pack – with Garry Mann leading the way.

Those other 8-pointer clever clogs are: Abigail Robinson, Adrian Pape, Alf Hutchinson, Burt Lancaster, Callum Vallis, Carl Hankin, Chris Walton 1, Chris Walton 2, Dame Dickson, Darren Darvill, David Welton, Elaine Battison, Gerry Steel, Graham Wakeling, James Longstreet, James McNaughton, Jonny Simpson, Kevin Leatherbarrow, Lorraine Arscott, Lucy Grainge, Martyn Walton, Matthew Ashmore, Michael Drew, Peter Morris, Raymond Brennan, Raymond Percival, Richard Collin 1, Richard Desmond, Stephen Atkinson, Stephen Bennett, Stephen Nicholson, Steve Austin, Steven Metcalfe, Trevor Gretton, Troy Lacend, Vicky Richardson, Will Caslon.

Click here for the latest Prediction League Table

David Sheppey continues his tail-end charlie role in 204th place (it doesn’t sound any better than “last” really, does it?). Chicken George and Toby Corum’s third XI wouldn’t take much encouragement to fall back to replace him.

Pete

PS – Crawley league table to follow shortly.

Wow - Dons Rubbished by Darlo

Well, where did that result come from? A fantastic 2-0 away win at high-flying league leaders AFC Wimbledon, who have been unbeatable in recent games. And by all accounts, a well deserved win with goals from Senior and Bridge-Wilkinson. And this follows on from last week’s FA Cup qualifying victory over Mossley where the opposition had three players sent off and darlington ending up 6-2 winners. This topsy-turvy season goes on and on.

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And we had five managers who plucked this scoreline from the hat – Iain Cardwell was the biggest winner as he moved up to 40 points in 30th place. Keith Appleton and Lewis Raper aren’t far behind on 36 points. Graham Wakeling is getting into the realms of averageness on 28 points and not too far from the table’s top half, whilst Christine Darvill has moved away from relegation hell and sits on 25 points.

For all other managers it was a quiet weekend – Christian Fox held on to top spot on 63 points despite not scoring, but Martin Cass has closed the gap to only three with his correct result prediction. Steve Calvert and Richard Collin are still there on 59 and 58, respectively, with Garry Mann and Mark Hathaway in league with Humphrey Bogart on 52 points each. Jilted John and Paul Robinson are leading the chasing pack on 49 points.

David Sheppey continues his role as anchor man (which is a polite way of saying Rock Bottom Charlie) on three points, with Chicken George next up on eight. There is a clutch (chicken joke) of managers one point further ahead on nine – Adrian Lynch, Burt Lancaster, Jean Johnson, Josh Slack and Raymond Percival.

Click Here to View the Full Prediction League positions after we Darlo defeat the League Leaders

Onwards and upwards?

Pete

And the rollercoaster goes on....

And so the Darlo rollercoaster goes on . . . how many times this season has injury time played an important part in a game? Tommy Wright salvaging a point deep into stoppage time spared The Quakers blushes of a fourth straight defeat. Has the line-up for this game signalled the start of new team tactics?

And while that late late goal deprived many a manager of eight points in the Come On Darlo Prediction League, it allowed another quarter of the total to gain maximum points.

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And whilst Christian Fox didn’t miss out totally at the top of the league – now on 63 - it’s allowed others to close up that bit more. Steve Calvert is on 59 in second place and Richard Collin on 58 in third, with Martin Cass now in fourth on 57. Garry Mann’s latest max score sees him leading the chasing pack in fifth on 52 points along with Mark Hathaway and Bogie.

Jilted John and Paul Robinson are up to eighth with their eight-pointers, now on 49.

The rest of the eight-pointers are: Adrian Pape, Chris MacKenzie 1, Chris Walton 1, Dame Dickson, David Rice-Oxley, David Sheppey 1, Don Juan, Donald Chesney, Frank Mann, Iain Cardwell, Jamie Molnar, Jayne Hathaway, Jenny Maughan, Keith Appleton, Kevin Kidger, Kevin Leatherbarrow, Laura Drew 2, Laura Drew 3, Laura Drew 4, Lee Dyas, Liam Pape, Lorraine Arscott, Malcolm Cundick 2, Mark Stephenson, Martyn Cripps 2, Martyn Maidstone, Martyn Walton, Michael Drew, Paul Hodgson, Paul Soderman, Rhonda Fleming, Richard Collin 2, Stephen Atkinson, Steve Calvert 2, Steve Duffy 1, Steven Metcalfe, Toby Corum 2, Trevor Gretton, Will Caslon, Will Caxton, Will Ellis.

And after last week’s achievement of all managers FINALLY having at least three points, there’s only David Sheppey’s second XI remaining on that number in 204th place. Jean Johnson, Josh Slack and Raymond Percival are on double that in 201st place. Chicken George has that solitary max score in 200th spot with Adrian Lynch, Burt Lancaster and Gary Parle not far ahead on 9 points.

Click Here to view the Latest Prediction League Table

Pete

It's not Fair - There Were Two of Them - Hayes AND Yeading

All I can say is that it’s a good job that both Hayes AND Yeading turned up . . . or we might have given them a game. The season swings from promising to crisis in the short space of three games – with rumours of backroom clashes and resignations. Will Darlo be heading for their ???th manager in the past two years (please fill in your own number here).

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On the pitch, Paul Terry seems to have suffered a serious injury and is doubtful for the rest of the season – one of the few players who has shown any consistency. Heated exchanges between players / fans / management have only added to the continuing downward spiral of this beloved football club – now much closer to a relegation spot than promotion.

But on the bright side of life, there were six managers who actually believed Hayes (and Yeading) would win 1-0 at the Arena. It’s Chicken George who has finally got a maximum score into his basket and FINALLY moves off the bottom of the league and FINALLY scores a point. All managers have FINALLY troubled the scorer.

John Gutenberg is moving on up to 25th place with 39 points with Avril Dent on 3 points back in 38th spot. Those old favourites Randolph Scott and Robert Mitchum are still going strong on 31 in 65th place, whilst Toby Corum’s second team completes the max scorers in 106th place on 27.

Top spots have been unaffected by this weekend’s score whilst David Sheppey and Raymond Percival now contest the spoon.

Check out the Preeiction League Standings by following the link below:

Darlington Supporters Trust Predicction League Latest Positions

And, finally, more good cheer for Luke Hewitson – he is our £10 spot prize winner – finishing 100th after our 15th league game. Luke’s name was drawn out of the hat from several other managers with the same scoring record. Prize is on the way to you Luke!!! Further spot prize after 30 games – new manager of Darlo FC? Only kidding, wouldn’t inflict that on anyone, but there will be a spot prize.

Pete

Jumpers for (mid table) Goalposts - disaster at Rushden

COME ON DARLO Prediction League for 2010-11

I had already taken off my old “Champions” hat and put it back in the drawer; those trusty “Play-Off” gloves were prised from my fingers and flung in some dark recess; but what I wasn’t expecting to do was to retrieve that well-worn thread-bare cardigan with “Mid-Table Obscurity . . . and Proud of it” emblazened across the shoulders. It’s a cardigan which has been in regular use over the years and fits any size and shape regardless of time of life. And so our first away defeat . . . 2-1 to Rushden . . . sees The Quakers in that familiar pack position . . . poised to challenge for a play-off spot?

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Christian Fox, on the other hand, is dusting off his rendition of “We Are The Champions” as we speak (he will be insufferable!) as his sixth maximum score from 14 games sees him head the Come On Darlo Prediction League with 60 points. Richard Collin is relegated to second spot on 56 and Steve Calvert is in third on 51, with Martin Cass in fourth on 49.

And there’s a fair smattering of maximum scores to recount. A selection – Nick Groves and Raymond Brennan poised to mount a serious challenge in 11th place on 42 points; Pete Knight not far behind on 39 with Gavin Shillingford there or thereabouts on 33 in 54th place. Gary Elliot and Rudy Dunk are joined at the hip on 26 points whilst Richard Tilly has escaped (for the time being) from the depths and is now on 20 points in 153rd spot.

The rest of the max-pointers are: Adrian Pape, Alf Hutchinson, Carl Hankin, Chris MacKenzie 2, David Sheppey 1, Deadly Doug, Edward Cundick, Jilted John, John Berry 3, John Shuttleworth, Liam Pape, Lorraine Arscott, Lynne Pape, Malcolm Cundick 1, Mark Hathaway, Mark O'Neill, Mark Stephenson, Martin Cass, Martyn Maidstone, Mike Cleasby, Miss Ing Fanz, Paul Hodgson, Paul Johnson 1, Paul Johnson 2, Peter White, Richard Soul, Will Caslon

And then there was one . . . as Chicken George’s Eggless (and pointless) Wanderers squats on that non-existent egg (point) and refuses to budge. Is he hatching a cunning plan?

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE LATEST PREDICTION LEAGUE TABLES

Pete

Wrexham's Smash & Grab

Aaaaaaarrrrrrgh!!! It was a smash and grab raid from across the border in Welsh Wales, with Wrexham hardly troubling the Darlo keeper . . . apart from that last gasp header near the end of normal time to leave Darlo as 1-0 losers. Mind, it wasn’t much better at the other end as new boy Powell squandered a golden chance in the first half and several other chances went begging.

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New kid on the block Christian Fox has made the most of that scoreline, his eight-pointer moving him into second place on 52 points and only 3 behind leader Richard Collin. Steve Calvert still there in third place on 51. Long-serving manager Garry Mann is showing real form with his team in fourth on 44 points, joining Steve Calvert’s third XI.

The Vallis family had a great weekend with that 0-1 scoreline . . . well, that is if you discount Chris!!! Both Ethan and Callum achieved eight-pointers, with Ethan now in 45th place on 31 points and Callum not far behind on 26 points in 87th place. Neil Jordison’s also on 26 points in 87th with his max score.

“You would do it for Randolph Scott” (see Blazing Saddles) had moved up to 23 point in 111th place and Anthony Leigh has pulled away from the relegation positions on 20 points in 138th spot. Last man with the max score is Steve Curtis, who definitely needed those eight points . . . he now had 11!!!!!

Check out the latest Prediction League Standings by following the link below:

Darlington Supporters Trust Prediction League Latest Table

Pete

6 6 6

Six away games . . . six draws . . . sixth place!!! But on balance, I guess most Darlo fans would have taken a point from the game against York beforehand.

Richard Collin’s first XI has found a rich vein of form, hitting his fifth correct score from twelve games . . . and consistent in the other games . . . to sit at the top of the Come On Darlo Prediction League table with 55 points. Steve Calvert is now back in second on 51 with his third XI scoring a max to move to joint third with Christian Fox on 44.

Humphrey Bogart is making a comeback (of sorts) with his max score to join Martin Cass in 7th on 41 points. Hannah Taylor really is in contention on 37 points in 16th spot; Andrew Hodgson has 31 in 43rd place; whilst Margaret White has burst into the top half of the table on 28 points.

Others in the goody-two-shoes bracket: Dean Martin, James Longstreet, Liam Pape, Margaret White, Nads Charity, Toby Corum 2 and Tony Taylor.

And then there were two – just Chicken George and Jean Johnson, sat in the corner with their arms folded and the biggest pet lips you’ve ever seen :) - all it will take to put the smiles back on their faces is a correct prediction. Good thing for them is they’ve still got another 34 matches in which to achieve that goal – or even to top the league?

And just how are those mini-leagues doing? Well, if you want to let me know who is in yours then I’ll make sure whoever is last will be suitably humiliated :)

For the latest standings in the Darlington Supporters Trust Prediction League (helping to raise cash for Youth Development), please follow the link below:

DARLINGTON SUPPORTERS TRUST PREDICTION LEAGUE LATEST


Pete

And in the end, it all worked out fine....Come on Darlo Prediction League

It’s a fine line between success and failure . . . a missed penalty (again) or a good save. And it’s a fine line between being booed or cheered from the pitch at the end of the game as Darlo have decided all their recent games should be resolved in injury time!!! Substitute McReady popping up with a 93rd-minute winner kept The Quakers in the hunt – but things will be tougher at York on Monday night.

That late late goal brought a deluge of correct scores, with our top three of Steve Calvert on 51, Richard Collin on 47 and Christian Fox on 44 all scoring maximums. Mark Kirk in fourth on 43 and Martin Cass on 41 in fifth also scored eight.

Other lucky so-and-so’s were: Abigail Robinson, Alf Hutchinson, Chris Walton 1, Chris Walton 2, Darren Darvill, David Sheppey 3, Edward Cundick, Elaine Battision, Eric Gill, Gary Woods, Harry Pape, Howling Wolf, Humphrey Bogart, Jamie Molnar, Jean and Dan, John Baskerville, John Gutenberg, Jonny Simpson, Laura Drew 1, Liam Pape, Lucy Grainge, Malcolm Cundick 2, Malcolm Cundick 3, Mark Hathaway, Martin Raison, Matthew Ashmore, Micheal Spencer, Paul Johnson 1, Paul Robinson, Pete Knight, Peter Ashmore 1, Ruth Woods, Steve McGarvie, Steven Metcalfe, Sue Oldham, Susan Weston, Tim Hewitson, Toby Corum 1, Troy Lacend, Wayne Gibson.

The deluge of points didn’t seep down to the underbelly of the league, still three managers without a care (or point) in the world.

To view the latest standings in the Darlington Prediction League, raising much needed cash for Darlington FC Youth Development, go to the following:

Darlington Supporters Trust Prediction League - Trust in Darlo

Pete

It's Like The Old Spinning Plate Trick.....

. . . you know the one – lots of sticks pointing in the air and then someone spins a plate on top of each one. The trick is to keep them all going at the same time. Well, just as Darlo had their goal-scoring plate spinning freely . . . then the old defending plate has gone crashing to the ground. After Saturday’s defensive debacle, The Quakers recovered from going behind to lead 2-1 . . . only for pre-season favourites Luton Town to peg them back to 2-2.

Maybe we would all have taken that result before the game kicked off. But pretty soon they’ve got to start converting these draws into wins.

The scorelines are certainly testing all managers – Steve Calvert and Richard Collin are both be-calmed at the top of the table with their respective first XIs – on 43 and 39 points. Christian Fox has joined Chris Vallis, Mike Cass and Steve Calvert’s third XI on 36 points in joint third – Christian is already counting that prize-money, believe me!!!

Mark Kirk, whose team name of Nottingham Kirk Villa really does display an identity crisis, has benefited from his eight-pointer and is now in 7th place on 35. Garry Mann is exploring parts of the table previously off-limits in 10th on 33, whilst Toby Corum continues to explore all parts of the league table in 17th on 31. John Mosby and Mike Wells are just behind on 30.

Jenny Maughan’s max-score has made her “a contender” on 28 points – dreams do come true sometimes!!! Arthur Brennan has just crept into the top quarter on 25 points, but Lee Dyas and Margaret White’s eight points have just enabled them to achieve The Great Escape from bottom half shame. The interesting fact is that all these eight-point managers have been propelled up the league, just showing how wide open it all is . . . hmm, just what is £100 divided by 204?

This week’s fun runners (not sure who is wearing the monkey suit and who is in the back end of the horse?) are now down to three – Chicken George (bringing his own fancy dress outfit?), David Sheppey and Jean Johnson.

Apologies for the late results email – I’m presently studying at college a couple of nights a week for an accountancy qualification. And if my first team sinks any lower in the table (178th!!!) I might need some creative accounting (cheating) to elevate them up the table :) :) :)

To view the latest Prediction League Standings for the Darlington Supporter Trust (raising cash for Youth Development), please click on the link below:

Darlington Supporters Trust Prediction League

Pete

Darlo - Throwing it all Away

COME ON DARLO Prediction League
for 2010-11   

I do NOT belieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeve it!!! Were the Darlo players already back on the team bus when Bath scored those two injury-time goals?
Or do we look at the other side of the coin and say that’s five away games unbeaten?

Nah!!! Another cock-up on the playing front!!!

And after the late late show at Bath, we have the Steve and Richard Show in the Come On Darlo Prediction League – Steve Calvert 1 is on 43 points, leading from Richard Collin 1 on 39, who is in front of Steve Calvert 3 on 36 with Richard Collin 2 on 34. And neither manager scored maximum points after yesterday’s game.

Chris Vallis is leading the pack snapping at their heels on 33 points – Sam Taylor and Stephen Atkinson being a couple of the other managers on the same number of points.

Our max scorers were few and far between - Dame Dickson with the equally wonderful team name of Michael Jackson’s Doctor has gained most from Darlo’s profligacy, moving up to 31st place on 26 points; Richard Soul and Stephen Bennett a smidgen (correct terminology) behind on 25 points. Avril Dent’s Bluenosing the Vile (I daren’t ask what that team name means) is on 22 along with Martyn Cripps. Martyn Maidstone is moving from unadulterated mediocrity into standard averageness and is now on 14 points; whilst Toby Corum (past winner . . . and loser) is now on 8 points with his third XI.

And . . . then there were FOUR . . . heading towards October and nearly 20% of the way through the season, our intrepid four have managed to avoid waking the scorer from a coma for the ninth consecutive game. The Wall of Shame reads – Chicken George, David Sheppey, Jean Johnson and Steve Curtis.

Big game on Tuesday . . . Luton Town . . . we will win!!!
2-0 - get your house, partner and children on it at the bookies

Check out the latest standings in the Darlington Supporters Trust Prediction League by:

CLICK HERE - PREDICTION LEAGUE LATEST

Pete

GARY PALLISTER APPOINTED QUAKERS OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Darlington have appointed football legend Gary Pallister as a new operations director.

The former England, Manchester United and Middlesbrough defender has agreed to take on an informal position for the Blue Square Bet Premier club.

Pallister’s appointment, which is strictly a commercial one, is aimed to increase the club’s profile and to help attract new sponsors and potential investors.

Raj Singh revealed the new appointment in the first of a three-part feature interview with Quakers Player, the club’s online TV service.

And the Quakers chairman today confirmed: "I've been talking to Gary for some time now about this proposition. “He has often said that he’s driven past the Arena so many times and thought ‘if someone could get hold of that club, it could go places’, which had been my view for a number years before I took over a year ago. “Well I’ve been trying to get him to buy into this idea for some time now so I’m extremely pleased he has agreed to come on board in an informal capacity. “His role is strictly a business one. He’ll meet sponsors when he can come to games at the Arena and he will meet potential new investors alongside myself. “Gary’s stature in the game is well-known. If we’re talking to local business people, trying to get them to come on board and take out sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us, then having Gary sitting alongside us, selling the club to them, will certainly add clout in terms of credibility and profile.

“It won’t be a very hands-on role so fans shouldn’t expect to see a great deal of him, he’ll work for us on an as-and-when basis, meeting key clients or sponsors and such like, and he’ll also hopefully be available for the fans nights that we hold at the Arena and other events, when his own business and TV commitments allow it.

“But his appointment will certainly help us to sell the club and to have someone like Gary around, with his experience and contacts in the game, will undoubtedly prove invaluable.”

Pallister, born in Kent but brought up in Norton, Stockton, began his playing career with Middlesbrough and had a loan spell with Darlington in 1985, playing seven games for the Quakers.

He played a big part in Boro’s climb through the divisions under Bruce Rioch after the club’s liquidation in 1986 and went on to join Manchester United for a British record £2.3m in ’89. Pallister played exactly 400 league and cup games over nine seasons for United before returning to Boro for £2.5m in July 1998, and played another 61 games for the Teessiders. He won a total of 22 caps for England and retired with a long-term back problem in 2001.

See the Threes for the Forest

Don’t need those scoring boots now, as Darlo finally found theirs!!! A 3-0 home win against a very ordinary Forest Green Rovers moved The Quakers up to seventh place in the Blue Square Premier, with still only the one defeat in eight but needing to turn those draws into wins.

Steve Calvert’s scoring boots are firmly back on as he moves well clear in the Come On Darlo Prediction League with 43 points. Richard Colling is second on 36 with Steve’s third XI in joint third on 33 with John Berry and Neil Raper. Lyndsey Steel and Richard Collin’s second XI are close by on 31 with a clutch of managers breathing down their necks on 30, including the family battle of Martin and Mike Cass with Billy just behind on 28 (do these three know something about football?).

In spite of the 3-0 scoreline, there were a number of correct predictions: Avril Dent, Billy Cass, Edward Cundick, Ethan Vallis, Laura Drew 1, Laura Drew 2, Laura Drew 4, Lynne Pape, Mark Kirk, Mark Stephenson, Martin Raison, Martyn Cripps 1, Mike Cass, Paul Colman, Paul Robinson, Paul Soderman, Paul White, Peter Morris, Raymond Brennan, Richard Desmond, Stephen Gawthrop, Steven Metcalfe, Terry Simpson, Tim Hewitson, Toby Corum 1

As for the Nul-Pointers, aggressively hanging on to that status, I’m not sure whether saying equal 200th is better than equal last. But that’s where the Fab Five of Chicken George, David Sheppey, Jean Johnson, Steve Curtis and Toby Corum find themselves. Investigations are continuing to establish if any of the five are involved with the Pakistani cricket team spread-betting scandal . . . either that, or they’re just absolutely average at predicting football scores :)

As announced pre-season, due to busting the 200-entries mark, there will be a couple of spot prizes this season. The first will be after 15 games when it will be awarded to the manager in 100th place.

Pete

Check out the latest standings in the Prediction League by clicking below:

Darlington Supporters Trust Latest League Table

Remember, all the good money you have helped us raise through this and the lottery scheme (details on the web site) help towards our contribution to Darlington FC Youth Development.

Nine Men....They Only Had Nine Men

NINE MEN!!! . . . they only had nine men . . . they only had nine men . . . they only had nine mennnnn . . . . NINE MEN!!! . . . and one of those was a stand-in goalkeeper who normally plays midfield. Another two points goes begging as Darlo play against nine men for an hour, take the lead just before half time and then concede a headed equaliser to the smallest player in football history, then have no idea how to trouble the goalkeeping midfielder for the rest of the game.

And NOT troubling the scorer has afflicted last week’s top dogs – allowing Richard Collin on 33 and John Berry on 30 (both with maximum scores) to close in on Steve Calvert in first place on 35. Neil Raper and Steve’s third XI are joint third on 30, too. Lyndsey Steel and Richard Collin’s second XI are in the mix on 28 points.

A couple of other managers showing some good recent form are Martin Cass and Sam Taylor – both are on 27 points in joint eighth place. David Welton’s and Edward Stone’s are doing well on 23 points.

Other top scorers are - Andrew Ashmore, Beth Taylor, Billy Cass, Chris MacKenzie 3, Christian Fox, Dan Taylor, David Rice-Oxley, Donald Chesney, Garry Mann, Gary Woods, Harry Pape, Humphrey Bogart, John Baskerville, John Gutenberg, Keith Appleton, Lorraine Arscott, Mike Wells, Paul White, Rhonda Fleming, Stephen Bennett, Wayne Gibson, Will Caslon, Will Caxton

And now the nul-pointers are down to five – Chicken George, David Sheppey, Jean Johnson, Steve Curtis and Toby Corum

Click Below for the latest Prediction League Standings:

Darlington Supporters Trust Prediction League Table

Pete

One Sunny Evening in Barrow....

Is this Prediction League malarky getting too easy for some?

Our 1-1 away draw at Barrow brought Steve Calvert’s fourth correct score out of six games so far – moving his first XI into top spot on 35 points. Neil Raper manages to hold on to second place along with Steve’s third XI.

It was a beautiful evening on the way to Barrow, passing the fringes of The Lake District and some wonderful scenery – but why are we always at the end with the low sun in our eyes? It was a decent crowd of over 1,700 saw Darlo deservedly take the lead, after previously missing a penalty . . . only to be pegged back by a dubious Barrow penalty.

As for that 1-1 scoreline, no less than 52 managers got that result spot on - Andrew Ashmore, Andrew Hodgson, Arthur Brennan, Beth Taylor, Chris MacKenzie 3, Chris Vallis, Chris Walton 2, Dan Taylor, Dave Woods, David Alderson, David Rice-Oxley, David Sheppey 1, David Taylor, Deadly Doug, Elaine Battision, Gavin Shillingford, Jayne Hathaway, John Baskerville, John Berry 1, John Berry 3, John Mosby, John Sainsbury, Lucy Grainge, Luke Hewitson, Lyndsey Steel, Malcolm Cundick 2, Malcolm Cundick 3, Mark Hathaway, Mark Stephenson, Martyn Cripps 2, Mick Moriarty, Mike Cass, Miss Ing Fanz, Nick Groves, Paul Dickson, Paul Johnson 2, Paul Robinson, Richard Collin 1, Richard Collin 2, Richard Desmond, Robert Mitchum, Sam Taylor, Stephen Atkinson, Stephen Mills, Stephen Nicholson, Steve Calvert 1, Steve Duffy 2, Sue Oldham, Susan Weston, Terry Simpson, Toby Corum 2 and Will Caxton.

There are some new names near the top of the league – Stephen Atkinson on 27 points, Nick Groves on 25 points, Jilted John (it’s not fair) on 24. Vicky Richardson is leading lady on 24 points in joint ninth place.

And the “battle” for base camp is now down to six.

Click on the Link Below to download the latest Prediction League Standings.

PREDICTION LEAGUE LATEST POSITIONS

If you have a photo or image that you would like published here, just send us an email to darlotrust@gmail.com along with your permission to put it on this site and who knows, you and your Prediction League team could become super stars of the www! This year, it is serious with lots of competition for the title at the end of the season so let's get into it. If you would like to send us your profile with some notes about how long you have been a Darlo supporter etc, let us know.

Remember, you can join the Trust or make a donation to our important work in helping Youth Development, Football in the Community and the Disabled Supporters group, by going to our DSG website at

www.darlotrustdsg.co.uk

Our main website is undergoing a thorough revamp and will be relaunched shortly (ie when our webmaster can be bothered to get his finger out and actually do some work, Ed?). Watch this space for details.


Pete

Wow!!! We're really impressed now!!!!

WOW!!! I’m really impressed!!! No, not with Darlo’s 2-0 win . . . but our top five managers have correctly predicted 3 out of 5 scores already this season. And Steve Calvert also got the correct results in the other two. Of course, you all had plenty of money on these predictions . . . didn’t you? Well, I am actually impressed with Darlo’s win as well if I’m honest and looking forward to the away game at Barrow.

So Steve Calvert’s third XI is sitting proudly at the top of the Come On Darlo Prediction League on a MASSIVE 30 points, Neil Raper is keeping company with Steve’s first XI on 27 points. Jilted John and Vicky Richardson have 24 . . . great scoring records so far!!! Mind, the chasing pack close by on 19 points would almost have won last season’s competition by now due to the low-scoring taking place then. Could this season’s winner break the 200-point barrier?

All managers (almost) were of one mind – that the scoreline would be in Darlo’s favour, which is why we have so many correct scores: Beth Taylor, Carol MacKenzie, Chris MacKenzie 1, Chris Vallis, Christian Fox, Christine Darvill, Dan Taylor, Dave Wilson, David Alderson, David Ewin, David Taylor, Deadly Doug, Eric Gill, Garry Mann, Gavin Shillingford, James Longstreet, Jamie Molnar, Jean and Dan, Jilted John, John Shuttleworth, Laura Drew 3, Lewis Raper, Mark Kirk, Mark Stephenson, Martin Cass, Martyn Walton, Michael Drew, Mike Cass, Mike Cleasby, Mike Wells, Neil Raper, Patrick Hernandez, Paul Johnson 2, Paul Robinson, Paul White, Peter Ashmore 2, Richard Widmark, Russell Jones 1, Sam Taylor, Stephen Atkinson, Steve Calvert 1, Steve Calvert 3, Steve Mann, Susan Weston, Tim Hewitson, Vicky Richardson.

Only around 20 managers didn’t have Darlo winning . . . tsk tsk!!!

And the gaggle of Pointless Wonders is now down to eight . . . and we’re still in August!!!

Point of Order – A request for a team name change has been received, which is highly irregular after the season has started. An extraordinary meeting of the committee took place to consider said request and after an all-night session . . . I mean discussion . . . it was decided by a majority of one vote to nil to accept the request. Therefore, I duly announce Russ Jones’ second team as “Slappy’s Dregs”

Come On Darlo :)

For more information and to view all the latest standings in the Darlington Supporters Trust Prediction League, click on the following link:

DarloTrust Prediction League

Pete

Cooper and Liddle praise the Trust

Darlington Manager, Mark Cooper, has praised the Darlington Supporters Trust for its continued sponsorship of the Club. The Trust has sponsored the dug outs and the Manager's kit for the season.

In addition, Craig Liddle was quick to comment on the additional help he and the Youth Development set up have got from the Trust. Speaking on the Club website, Craig said "It's common knowledge that the Trust has long been big supporters of the Youth set up and as usual their help this year is yet again a huge help".


The Trust has sponsored the Clubs youth team and is delighted with the start to their season. Trust Chair, Tony Taylor, said "we all know that the future of the Club rests with a strong youth team and it is really satisfying to see young players develop into full time professionals in the first team".

"We are confident that our support of youth development, through our lottery scheme, prediction league and other fund raising activities, will make a real difference to the future of the Club we all support".

Don't Panic....Latest Trust Prediction League Placings

Oh-Kaaaaaayyyyy!!! Just starting to panic a teensy weensy bit on the goal-scoring front . . . as the proverbial barn door is looking more like the grand entrance to a rabbit hutch (in the far distance). Darlo’s first defeat of the season (sounds impressive, doesn’t it!) hides the fact that they’ve only scored three goals . . . one from Mr O.G. And don’t we ALWAYS beat Grimsby? . . . the world is upside down!!!

Steve Calvert is taking the league by storm with two teams in the top three – first and third!!! His maximum score took him three points clear of weekend leader Neil Raper on 19, who is joined there by . . . Steve Calvert. Jilted John, Lemsip Opek and Vicky Richardson have 16 points in joint fourth place. Steve’s top spot has been achieved with two correct scores and two correct results - “good arrows” (not suggesting you used a pin to select them mind, Steve).

Not many other max points scorers (and not many overall who predicted the away win):  Alistair Cripps, Andrew Ashmore, Gary Robertson, Hannah Taylor, Jamie Molnar, Jilted John, Michael Drew and Terry Simpson.

There’s still a whole heap of managers (correct terminology for failing managers who are destined for the scrap heap) who haven’t troubled the scorers up to this point . . . perhaps we should have a sweepstake on how many games it takes before all have achieved more than the dreaded NIL.

For more information and to view all the latest standings in the Darlington Supporters Trust Prediction League, click on the following link:

DarloTrust Prediction League

Pete

Can’t figure it out yet? Darlo Trust Prediction League Latest after Kettering

Can’t figure it out yet . . . is it going to be a high-scoring set of games this season or very tight?

Well, so far, Darlo have achieved the classic one point away and three at home but the lack of firepower from the front players is slightly worrying as some of the other front-runners seem to be scoring at will.

No such lack of firepower from Neil Raper who leads the Come On Darlo Prediction League with 19 points – which includes two correct scores and one correct result. Vicky Richardson and Lemsip Opek are just behind on 16 points, both having achieved two correct scores.

Quite a few other managers found their scoring touch with the 0-0 result: Alex Wilson, Jayne Hathaway, John Berry 1, John Mosby, Mark Hathaway, Martin Raison, Martyn Cripps 2, Nick Groves, Russell Jones 2, Steve Calvert 1, Steve Calvert 3, Steven Metcalfe

There’s a clutch of managers on 14 points (who’ve correctly predicted one score and two results): Alex Wilson, Brian Main, James Houghton, Malcolm Cundick (right end of the table this season, Malcolm!), Richard Collin and Steve Calvert.

There’s an even bigger clutch of managers on the extremely well known NUL POINTS – plenty of time, though!

Take a look at the latest Prediction League table by clicking here.

Remember, all profits from this Prediction League are given to Darlington FC Youth Development and Craig Liddle is really pleased to be working with us for the future of Darlington FC.


Pete

Stirring Comeback lights up Prediction League

I just wonder how many “Get Out Of Jail Free” cards we’ve been issued by the Blue Square Premier – to be using one so early in the season!!!

With 12 minutes to go, Darlo 2-0 down and seemingly dead and buried, they produced a stirring comeback which had the fans wondering why they hadn’t applied that same pressure for the previous 78. Still, it’s two games unbeaten and we’re in the mix in the league table in sixth place.

And from these first two games we’ve got 19 managers who’ve achieved a correct score and correct result giving them all 11 points in the table. But it’s Malcolm Cundick, Sue Oldham and James Cagney (old friend) who pulled the rabbit out of the hat with last night’s 2-2 draw. Both Sue and Malcolm are in joint top spot with a few “old-timers” and some new names.

Jeff and Jenny Maughan are already flagged up to the scrutineer’s committee, both having 11 points :) - Jenny nearly having as many points now as she did all of last season. Couple of our younger (and regular) managers Luke Hewitson and Lewis Raper are also in joint top spot. Pete Knight’s first appearance sees him off to a good start, whilst Steve Mann can’t believe he’s up there challenging. Brian Main leads the charge (geddit?) for the HMRC Men.

Some great team names this time around . . . I particularly like “Hartlepool Nil”, especially if it comes true!!! Others have surely got a meaning only to the manager themselves, whilst a select few names really could do with seeing a psychiatrist!!! :) . . . “Penguins Stole My Socks is one I’m particularly fond of.

League tables will be coming thick and fast as The Quakers play a couple of games a week in the early part of the season.

Click here to view the latest standings in the Prediction League - helping to raise cash for Darlington Football Club's Youth Development programme

Well - You've Gone and Done it This Time!!!!!

Not only have you created another record number of entries to the prediction league, but you’ve also crashed through the 200-barrier!!!

We have a grand total of 204 managers in this year’s competition which is fantastic considering that none of you know anything about league football, so you’re bound to know even less about the Blue Square Premier :) :) :) Many thanks to all those who have taken the time and trouble to enter – the use of PayPal seems to have been a great help, too.

This means over £220 towards DFC’s youth development to assist Craig Liddle and Neil Maddison with their work in the youth teams. And for anyone who hasn’t seen this story about James Morrison, midfielder from West Bromwich Albion, who was raised in Darlington (but didn’t play for them) here is the link - http://www.darlofc.co.uk/news.php?NewsID=322
James contacted our own Neil Maddison offering his help and ended up sponsoring two of the youth teams – which is a great gesture. And some of our managers in the Come On Darlo Prediction League have got in on the act, too . . . some donating more than just the entry fee for their teams and others pledging any winnings to the youth development . . . a great effort by everyone!!! If anyone wants to contribute further towards helping the youth players at DFC, then I’m happy to co-ordinate this – cheques should be made payable to “Darlington Supporters Trust” and sent to 128 Lowther Drive, Darlington, Co. Durham.

And what of the competition ahead? Well, we’ve already got the first game under our belts with a hard-fought 1-0 home win – Hatch scoring in only the fifth minute. Next game is away at Altrincham on Tuesday after which the first league table will be produced and emailed to everyone and will also appear on the trust website at www.darlotrust.co.uk.

If you have any queries about your scores or anything else then email me here as soon as possible – you all kept your own copies, right :)
If you have other email addresses you want to use to receive the match-by-match results, then let me know.

How many of you are playing in your own mini-leagues, too? Make sure all your friends are listed in the leagues – and let me know who you are and I’m sure I can give you all a mention throughout the season. The Hayssen Sandiacre “mini” league just keeps getting bigger and they are bound to be a challenge to the overall placings. We’ve broken the 200 managers barrier – can someone break the 200 points barrier this season?

Thanks to all those who returned their entries in Microsoft Excel format . . . you’ve saved me so much inputting work; and for the others I’ve got the first five scores entered . . . lots of work still to do!!!

Good Luck and let’s hope for a swift return to the Football League so, as they say, Come on Darlo!!!

Pete

Shop & Earn Cash for the Trust

Use the following safe link for your online shopping and help us to raise funds for Youth development and the Disabled Supporters Group:

www.buy.at/darlotrust

Don't forget to enter the Prediction League - you can do it all online at

www.darlotrustdsg.co.uk

All Prediction League profits go to Darlington FC Youth Development

Thanks for your support.

Prediction League - Pay Online

Just take a stroll to our sister website at www.darlotrustdsg.co.uk to download the forms to enter this year's prediction league (and hey, we all have Darlo at the top don't we?). Not only that, you can now pay for your online entries using PayPal, as well as donating or renewing subs online.

We hope to have our new look, main website up and running in the next couple of weeks.

Please be tolerant with us while we ring the changes - lets face it, its going to be a lot different this season in so many ways.

Don't forget, all the profits from the Prediction League are given directly to Youth Development at Darlington FC.

Trust Prediction League - All Profits To Darlington FC Youth Development

This is the real anti-dote to that “stuff” in the World Cup . . . you can’t really use the word “football”

So get some proper football in your veins and pit your wits against all the other managers!!!
It’s the COME ON DARLO Prediction League for 2010-11

Last season's competition saw a record 178 managers battling it out for the title of Champion of the Come On Darlo Prediction League. But Darlo’s poor season was reflected in the poor scores achieved by all managers – so how can you cope with the Blue Square Premier League? That's the challenge for you, your friends, family and work colleagues. Why not get enough managers together for your own mini league and the chance of showing off your footballing knowledge?

All you have to do is predict Darlo's scores for the coming season - couldn’t be easier eh? In addition, you have to predict the promotion and relegation places of all the leagues in England plus play-off finalists, the FA Cup and League Cup finalists - and where the other north east clubs will finish in their respective leagues. Finally, you have to tell us the answer to some DFC questions. They add up to a whole heap of points.

And just to make things even more interesting, there are top prizes to be won –

1st, £100; 2nd, £50; 3rd, £25 with a £10 spot prize at New Year

And, of course, there's the obligatory Wooden Spoon for the manager who finishes last!!! There are now six managers already out there with this coveted spoon (of shame) with our very own fab fan Lance Ireland the latest recipient. Let’s see if we can achieve over 200 entries for this year’s competition – dig out those friends and family who think they know about football and get them involved; challenge those Premier League-supporting mates and work colleagues to predict some real football scores! There will be further spot prizes if we break that 200-entry mark.

Weekly results and the up-to-date league table will be sent out to all those who supply their correct email address, whilst we'll also keep you in touch with the league's progress each week via Darlington Supporters' Trust's website and our sister site at www.darlotrustdsg.co.uk . But be warned, I will reveal all those who are performing poorly :)

You can enter as many times as you wish - please photocopy forms and encourage friends, family and work colleagues to join in. The fee for each entry form is £2 - cheques only, payable to "Darlington Supporters' Trust." All profits will go towards DFC’s Youth Development programme . . . assisting our stars of tomorrow!!!

TO ENTER: Go to

www.darlotrustdsg.co.uk

and follow the onscreen instructions or email

comeondarlo@sky.com

for an entry form direct to your email address

Entries Close Firday 6th August 2010 - please help - all profits go to support Darlington FC's Youth Development. Help us to promote the future for our Club

Good luck!!!

Pete

Darlo Fixtures 2010-2011

Sat 14th August Newport County Home 3pm
Tue 17th August Altringham Away 7.45pm
Sat 21st August Kettering Town Away 3pm
Tue 24th August Grimsby Town Home 7.45pm
Sat 28th August Gateshead Home 3pm
Mon 30th August Barrow Away 3pm
Sat 4th September Eastbourne Borough Away 3pm
Sat 11th September Forest Green Rovers Home 3pm
Sat 18th September Bath City Away 3pm
Tue 21st September Luton Town Home 7.45pm
Sat 25th September Southport Home 3pm
Tue 28th September York City Away 7.45pm
Sat 2nd October Wrexham Home 3pm
Tue 5th October Rushden & Diamonds Away 3pm
Sat 9th October Hayes & Yeading Home 3pm
Sat 16th October Mansfield Town Away 3pm
Sat 30th October AFC Wimbledon Away 3pm
Tue 9th November Tamworth Home 7.45pm
Sat 13th November Crawley Town Home 3pm
Sat 20th November Wrexham Away 3pm
Sat 27th November Luton Town Away 3pm
Tue 30th November Histon Home 7.45pm
Sat 4th December Kidderminster Harriers Home 3pm
Sat 18th December Cambridge United Away 3pm
Sun 26th December Fleetwood Town Home 3pm
Tue 28th December Gateshead Away 7.45pm
Sat 1st January Fleetwood Town Away 3pm
Mon 3rd January Barrow Home 3pm
Sat 8th January AFC Wimbledon Home 3pm
Sat 22nd January Tamworth Away 3pm
Tue 25th January Mansfield Town Home 7.45pm
Sat 29th January Kettering Town Home 3pm
Sat 5th February Newport County Away 3pm
Sat 12th February Eastbourne Borough Home 3pm
Sat 19th February Forest Green Rovers Away 3pm
Sat 26th February Grimsby Town Away 3pm
Sat 5th March Cambridge United Home 3pm
Sat 12th March Histon Away 3pm
Sat 19th March Kidderminster Harriers Away 3pm
Sat 26th March Altringham Home 3pm
Sat 2nd April Crawley Town Away 3pm
Sat 9th April Bath City Home 3pm
Sat 16th April Hayes & Yeading Away 3pm
Sat 23rd April York City Home 3pm
Mon 25th April Southport Away 3pm
Sat 30th April Rushden & Diamonds Home 3pm

Darlo Kick off season with Newport County at Home

Yes after all the off pitch goings on it is now time to look at something on the pitch.

The first day fixtures have been released by the Blue Square Premier and Darlo have got Newport County visiting them at the Arena on 14th August 2010.

Club seeking sponsorship for youth set up

Craig Liddle has invited Darlington fans and businesses to help fund the club's youth set-up by sponsoring their young teams.

There are a range of sponsorship options available. More than £200,000 a year is needed to run the club's youth set-up alone, with teams ranging from Under-9s through to Under-18s.

Full details can be found on the clibs webpage.

Cooper takes over at DFC

Mark Cooper has taken over as Manager at DFC. The club has seen a hetic few weeks with two managers going and Cooper coming in.

Cooper who has managed Peterborough, Tamworth and Kettering Town is looking forward to the challenge that is ahead of him as manager of Darlington Football Club. Cooper told the clubs offical web site

"You look around and look at the stadium, I've looked at the squad, they've got some decent players signed up. I've had two or three years in it (Conference) and done pretty well. I'm looking forward to it, it's a tough league, I'm sure the fans realise that.

"It's a big, strong, physical league at times and you have to be able to deal with that.

"It's not all about playing pretty football, you have to grind results out and be big and strong. If you can do that you'll have a chance."

The full interview can be found on the Clubs web page.

Davey takes over at Hereford

It has been announced that Simon Davey has taken over at League Two club Hereford today.

Full details can be found on the northern echo webpage

Davey - Why I quit the Quakers

Simon Davey has spoken to Andrew Wilkinson at the Evening Gazette regarding his resignation as Darlington Manager.

Davey has hit back at criticism over the manner of his resignation, and has thrown his weight behind the club and Raj Singh the Chairman.

Davey told the Gazette "While I was away in America I received a fantastic financial offer from a USA soccer company that made me think long and hard about my current situation.'After long consideration with my family, I decided to tender my resignation."

"There was never, ever, any disagreement between the Darlington chairman and me regarding players that I wanted to bring in. Raj Singh was very supportive of me there; in fact he was very supportive in everything I did. I think we both shared a number of common values.
'In my view, he is a chairman who most managers would find it easy to work with. He certainly has the best interests of Darlington Football Club at heart and I think that, given time and the support of the fans, he will turn things around."

'I've apparently been criticised - although I'm not entirely sure by whom - for resigning in writing. I did that because that's what my contract required me to do and because, given the formal nature of what I was doing, that was also the right thing to do.

The full article can be found on the Evening Gazette website.

Trust Chair, Tony Taylor, said he was "pleased to hear that there had been no significant issues behind the resignation of Simon Davey", but did state that Davey's comments raised "more questions than it answered".

"Hopefully", says Taylor, "this sorry saga can now be put behind us and the supporters can rally behind new Manager Ryan Kidd". Taylor emphasised that "this is probably the most important season in the history of Darlington football club and it is vital that we can now move on positively".

Kidd Appointment - Evening Gazette Article

Andrew Wilkinson, from the evening gazette, has been speaking to Ryan Kidd on his appointment as manager at DFC.

Kidd said: “I have been in the game for 25 years and been a coach for eight. All managers get their first job by chance, and this is mine. I’m ready for it.

“I didn’t expect this chance to come along now, but I couldn’t turn it down. In just 10 weeks here I have seen the structure and the foundations. I want to be the man to bring Darlington back into the Football League."

The article also reveals that the club has sold nearly the same amount of season tickets as they had at this point last year.

The full article can be found on the Evening Gazette website.

Graham Fordy - Steady the Ship

Graham Fordy has been discussing in the Northern Echo the need to steady the ship at Darlington FC follow the recent events at the club.

The full article can be found on the Northern Echo Web Site.

Kidd on appointment as manager

Ryan Kidd has today been talking to the Northern Echo about his appointment as Darlington Manager.

Kidd has reassured fans that he would not rejoin Davey should the opportunity arise at a higher placed league club. “If Simon got another job and offered me a role it would to be as an assistant – now I’m a manager, so do I want to step down to be an assistant again? The answer is no.

“I think you’ll find I’m a loyal and honest person and will do this job to the best of my ability.

“I like what’s going on at this club. The foundations are in place, we’ve got a really good chance next year of bouncing back – I want to be part of that and who wouldn’t be.”

The full article can be found on the Northern Echo Web page.

Tony Taylor, Trust Chairman, states "We wish Ryan Kidd every success in his new appointment and we hope that he can bring a level of stability to the club after what has been an unfortunate sequence of events over the recent days."

Be Interactive with the Trust

The Trust are Twittering & on Facebook & would like DFC fans to be interactive with them.

The Trust can be found on Twitter @DarloTrust or on Facebook Darlo Trust/Darlington Supporters Trust.

Raj Singh on Kidd Appointment

Raj Singh has given his views of the appointment of Ryan Kidd as the new Darlington Manager, on the clubs official website.

Raj Singh said: "Ryan is the best option for us, given his involvement in player recruitment since joining the club in April, and we're hoping he'll be able to carry on all the good work we've done recently in creating a buzz around the place.

He knows the players that he and Simon Davey wanted to keep here as well as helping to identify new signings this summer. He's also had a big hand in trying to persuade three other players to join us who are currently mulling offers on the table.

He shares the same beliefs and philosophies when it comes to football which means the emphasis next season will still be on playing attractive and entertaining football."

The full article can be found on the clubs web page.

Trust Chairman on Davey Resignation

There was surprise around the town that after 77 days in charge Simon Davey (pictured) resigned as manager of Darlington Football Club. It would appear Davey resigned from the club via email. Raj Singh. club chairman, has stated that the resignation is due to personal reasons.

Interviewed by the Northern Echo, Trust Chairman Tony Taylor stated:
“The manner of the way it has happened is immaterial. What is important is what is behind it and what has motivated it. If it is personal, then fine, and it is better for the football club. If there’s something else behind it, it’s better for the fans that we know now.”

Ryan Kidd, who was number two to Davey, has today been announced as the new manager for the club. It has been reported that Kidd has been given a two year contract.

Darlo Appoint New Manager

Darlo have announced that Ryan Kidd has been announced as the new Darlington Manager, following the resignation of Simon Davey yesterday. It has been reported by the Northern Echo that Raj Singh has given Kidd, Davey's number two at the club, a two year contract.

Season Tickets Great Value, says Trust

The Darlington Supporters Trust has put its backing and support behind the initiative at Darlington Football Club who are offering Season Tickets for next season at just £250 before the 11th June and £280 thereafter for adults.

Paul Hodgson, Vice Chair of the Trust, urged fans to take up this offer and today said "We know that this is the start of what is likely to be a momentous and significant season for the Club as it looks to bounce straight back into the Football League."

"The Trust", said Hodgson, "believes that the support of fans is essential for progress in the right direction and no one can be in any doubt about the terrific level of support for the Club in recent seasons, in spite of all the difficulties the Club has gone through. We all know that it is possible for the Club to make a speedy return to the Football League and we encourage fans to show their backing by taking up this offer from the football club".

The Trust, which also runs a Disabled Supporters Group, is also pleased to note the concession prices remain in place for the season tickets, and the DSG will continue to work closely with the Football club to ensure that disability and inclusion issues are dealt with so that the club's excellent reputation in this area can be maintained.

Trust AGM

Members will have received notification of the Trust AGM this coming Wendesday night at the Coachman Hotel and we look forward to welcoming any fully paid up members to the meeting.

The Agenda will be as per that issued to the members in the Calling Notice which invited nominations and items for the agenda - since no other items for the Agenda have been received, no other business, other than that on the Calling Notice will be conducted on the night.

This is in accordance with the legislative requirements under which we operate as an Industrial and Provident Society.

Only fully paid up members will be admitted to the meeting and membership applications can not be processed on the night. Members should have their membership cards with them, along with appropriate verification of ID and membership will be checked where appropriate.

Prediction League - They think it's all over...

. . . it is now!!!

And while it’s not been anywhere near a good season for Darlo, it has been for our winner:

1st – Andrew Hodgson - 173 points
2nd – Carl Hankin - 169 points
3rd – The Duke (alias . . . me!) - 167 points

First-timer Andrew Hodgson has hit the big time by winning the ultimate Darlo competition – The Come On Darlo Prediction League 2009-10. Well done to Andrew, who has been there or thereabouts all season – as has second-placed Carl Hankin, who only just misses out on top spot. Commiserations Carl. (Extra points on the league table are for Leeds Utd finishing second, not 21st . . . as I put in the spreadsheet).

It’s been a really low-scoring competition, with Darlo’s results being anything from good, to average, to pathetic, to diabolical . . . and beyond!!! Cheques and certificates will be winging their way to you in the very near future.

And The Spoon? It can only be – Lance Ireland – who timed his run to perfection, took bottom spot fairly late in the season and clung on for dear life, fighting off all-comers. Lance, the naff spoon will be on its way very soon – take pride in it and hang it somewhere to remind you every day of your “achievement”.

What about other top dogs in the different sections?

DARLINGTON SCORES (top three):
111 – Andrew Hodgson
111 – Carl Hankin
111 – Robert Mitchum (though Rob could only manage 16th place)
DARLINGTON SCORES (bottom three):
23 – Malcolm Cundick 2
23 – Richard Collin 2
21 – Lance Ireland

LEAGUE AND CUP (top three):
64 – Martyn Cripps 2
62 – Damian Dickson
61 – Sue Oldham
LEAGUE AND CUP (bottom three):
11 – Gillian Percival
11 – John Berry 3
08 – Ian Butler

LOCAL FOOTBALL (top three):
38 – Martyn Walton
34 – Peter White
30 – Paul Johnson 2
LOCAL FOOTBALL (bottom three):
04 – Jayne Hathaway
04 – Nick Walters
02 – Gary Woods

Top Gal is Sue Oldham on 151 points in eighth place. Not sure if her team name of “Not So Good This Year?” was a prediction on herself or The Quakers. Whichever way, it brought her within 22 points of league glory.

And, finally, a big THANK YOU to all of you who entered this season’s challenge – to those who’ve been with us through all six competitions (we must be doing something right) and to all you newcomers, let’s hope we haven’t put you off!!!

The BIG challenge for you all next season is – The Blue Square Premier!!! If you thought you knew nothing about lower league football, then this surely must be the ultimate challenge. And the competition WILL go on, so why not ask that mate, colleague, family member if they’re up for it?

And let’s hope for better things for Darlo, too.

Pete





Darlington Results

Aldershot Town 3 1 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 0 1 Bury
DARLINGTON 0 1 Crewe Alexandra
Port Vale 1 0 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 1 1 Cheltenham Town
Lincoln City 3 0 DARLINGTON
Accrington Stanley 2 1 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 0 2 AFC Bournemouth
Grimsby Town 1 1 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 0 2 Rochdale
DARLINGTON 0 1 Macclesfield Town
Dagenham & Redbridge 2 0 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 2 1 Shrewsbury Town
Barnet 3 0 DARLINGTON
Hereford United 2 1 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 1 0 Burton Albion
Chesterfield 5 2 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 0 4 Morecambe
Notts County 4 0 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 0 1 Bradford City
Torquay United 5 0 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 1 2 Northampton Town
Rotherham United 1 2 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 1 1 Lincoln City
DARLINGTON 1 3 Port Vale
Bury 1 1 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 1 2 Aldershot Town
Crewe Alexandra 3 0 DARLINGTON
Cheltenham Town 3 3 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 2 0 Rotherham United
Morecambe 2 0 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 2 3 Chesterfield
DARLINGTON 0 5 Notts County
Bradford City 1 0 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 1 3 Torquay United
Northampton Town 2 0 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 1 2 Barnet
Shrewsbury Town 0 2 DARLINGTON
Burton Albion 1 2 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 0 1 Hereford United
DARLINGTON 0 0 Accrington Stanley
Rochdale 0 1 DARLINGTON
AFC Bournemouth 2 0 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 0 2 Grimsby Town
Macclesfield Town 0 2 DARLINGTON
DARLINGTON 0 2 Dagenham & Redbridge


League and Cup

Chelsea Premier League: 1st Place
Manchester United Premier League: 2nd Place
Arsenal Premier League: 3rd Place
Tottenham Hotspur Premier League: 4th Place

Burnley Premier League: 18th Place
Hull City Premier League: 19th Place
Portsmouth Premier League: 20th Place

Newcastle United Championship: 1st Place
West Bromwich Albion Championship: 2nd Place
Blackpool Championship: Playoff Winners
Cardiff City Championship: Playoff Losers

Sheffield Wednesday Championship: 22nd Place
Plymouth Argyle Championship: 23rd Place
Peterborough United Championship: 24th Place

Norwich City Division 1: 1st Place
Leeds United Division 1: 2nd Place
Millwall Division 1: Playoff Winners
Swindon Town Division 1: Playoff Losers

Gillingham Division 1: 21st Place
Wycombe Wanderers Division 1: 22nd Place
Southend United Division 1: 23rd Place
Stockport County Division 1: 24th Place

Notts County Division 2: 1st Place
AFC Bournemouth Division 2: 2nd Place
Rochdale Division 2: 3rd Place
Dagenham & Redbridge Division 2: Playoff Winners
Rotherham United Division 2: Playoff Losers

Grimsby Town Division 2: 23rd Place
Darlington Division 2: 24th Place

Stevenage Borough Conference: 1st Place
Luton Town Conference: 2nd Place
Oxford United Conference: Playoff Winners
York City Conference: Playoff Losers

Chelsea FA Cup: Winners
Portsmouth FA Cup: Losers

Manchester United League Cup: Winners
Aston Villa League Cup: Losers



Local Football

6 How many clean sheet will Darlington keep in the league
23 How many clean sheet will opponents keep in the league
18 How many Darlington players will score a league goal (not own goals)
8 How many league points will Darlington achieve by Nov 25, 2009
15 How many league points will Darlington achieve by Feb 28, 2010
30 How many league points will Darlington achieve in total
33 How many league goals will Darlington score
87 How many league goals will Darlington concede
1 How many sendings-off will Darlington have in the league
2 How many penalties will Darlington score in the league?
2 How many (scored) penalties will Darlington concede in the league
24 Darlington's final league position
4 How many cup games will Darlington play (inc. replays)?
5 Highest aggregate goals in one home match (ie, 5-3 = 8)
7 Highest aggregate goals in one away match (ie, 1-4 = 5)
9 Total league goals scored by Darlington's top scorer

1 Newcastle's final league position
11 Middlesbrough's final league position
13 Sunderland's final league position
20 Hartlepool's final league position
14 Carlisle's final league position
5 York's final league position
2 Leeds Utd's final league position

Darlo Trust Leading the way on Disability Issues

Members from the Darlington Supporters Trust attended the Conference and Annual General Meeting of the National Association of Disabled Supporters (NADS) at Wembley Stadium yesterday.

The registered charity, which represents 30,000 disabled supporters in the UK,is leading the way in representing Disability issues to the football authorities and the Trust in Darlington is held in high regard for its own work in this area. Trust Chair, Tony Taylor, was elected as a Trustee of the Charity.

The Conference was addressed by leading members of the 2018 World Cup Bid and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as other disabled supporter organisations, at what was described by Wembley Chief Executive David Bernstein, as the best turnout yet for a NADS AGM. Bernstein, a former Chair of Manchester City, is President of NADS organisation. Meanwhile, Lord Rosser of Ickenham, Vice President of NADS, said that the organisation was vital and representations it had made to the All Party Parliamentary Committee had made quite an impact on developments across all sports, not just football.

Resignations of Peter Plant and Ralph Naden

Resignations of Peter Plant, secretary, and Ralph Naden, co-opted board member

We acknowledge the resignations of Peter Plant and Ralph Naden, but entirely refute the comments made in their very public resignations. We wish them every success in the future and hope that they, like us, will continue to support Darlington Football Club.

The Trust board

Darlo hero Craig Liddle salutes the Trust

Craig Liddle has written the following message of thanks to the Trust:

"Just a short note to once again say thank you for your support for the Youth section. Your sponsorship of the Youth team and youth page in the match day programme is greatly appreciated.

You can see in the past two years how many players have successfully made the step-up to first team level and with your continued support the future for Youth development looks bright".

Tony Taylor and Paul Hodgson from the Trust explained that the Trust remained committed to supporting the Youth development activities at the Club along with its work with Football in the Community.

Prediction League Match 46

For you Darlo fans, the war (and season) is over!!! And again another home defeat really brought home how difficult the past couple of years have been – with various owners ensuring that all things on-pitch wouldn’t run smoothly.

The 2-0 scoreline was only predicted by four managers - Andy Fairweather-Low, Carl Hankin, Paul Johnson and Peter White. But the real points-scoring has happened with the end of season for all four leagues – allowing all league positions for the local teams, Darlo’s questions and the rest of the promotion / relegation places to be settled.

And for our league leaders, what’s happened? Well Andrew Hodgson has returned to top spot with 163 points and Carl Hankin is in second with 159 – but that huge gap to the rest of us has now been closed. The Duke has shot up the table with good predictions from both the league and local sections and is now on 155 points in third place.

Brian Main (long-time challenger) and Martyn Walton (new kid on the block) have 151 points in joint fourth place. Robert Mitchum has 145 points in sixth, Anthony Leigh in seventh on 144, Stephen Nicholson in eighth on 143, David Alderson in ninth on 142 and Sue Oldham in tenth on 141.

The whole league is still wide open – with only the play-off finals and the FA Cup to be decided.

Meanwhile, the engraver’s pen is out for Lance Ireland, who simply refuses to surrender the spoon to anyone. Lance has 46 points, with Richard Collin on 50 and Margaret White on 52. Jenny Maughan still has a chance for glory on 53.

There will be a full results round-up with the final league table of the season, with special mentions for those who finish top and bottom in the various sections.

Pete

Prediction League Match 45

A fine day out in sunny Macclesfield saw a well deserved 2-0 win for Darlo – with goals from Ian Miller and the much-improved Andrew Smith playing up front on his own – his first goal for the club. And in truth, it could have been more as several further chances were spurned, including a missed penalty by Mark Convery.

A couple of final league positions are added to today’s league table – Sheffield Wednesday have been relegated from the Championship in 22nd place; Luton Town finished second in the Blue Square Premier.

With the points added from the Darlo game, not much has changed at the top of the league – Carl Hankin on 137, Andrew Hodgson on 132 and Robert Mitchum with 125. But now it’s Susan Weston challenging for one of the medal places – 111 points in fourth place – with David Alderson and Brian Main a point behind on 110.

This week’s eight-pointers: Chris Vallis, Dave Wilson, Edward Cundick, Frank Mann, Ian Butler, Jean Pepper, Jonny Simpson, Karen Cardwell, Lance A lot, Lance England, Luke Hewitson, Martyn Cripps 2, Matthew Ashmore, Mick Spencer, Richard Widmark, Trevor Gretton, Wayne Gibson

Only Ian Davidson correctly predicted Sheffield Wednesday’s demise in 22nd place – well done Ian

Luton in second place in the Blue Square Premier: Adrian Lynch, Alex Wilson, Chris Mackenzie 3, Dan Duryea, Ian Bonsall, James Houghton, John Shuttleworth, Kareem Marzouk, Lance Alot, Lance England, Lisa Fletcher, Martyn Cripps 2, Neil Danby, Peter White, Raymond Percival, Stephen James, Steve Duffy 2, Susan Weston

It’s back to square one for Lance Ireland at the foot of the table, now on 27 points. Raymond Percival has 31, Richard Collin on 32, Malcolm Cundick on 35 and Jenny Maughan on 37.

Pete

Election candidates on the spot

The Supporters' Trust has written to local parliamentary candidates in the forthcoming election, asking questions about football fans' involvement in the game. We will add responses as they come in.

Mark Wilkes, Liberal Democrat, (Bishop Auckland)
I am very supportive of measures which give more control over Football Clubs to their fans. I am more than happy to support both of the questions you have put.

Jenny Chapman, Labour, (Darlington)
Great to hear from you. I am a firm believer in greater involvement of supporters with the running of clubs and, as you'd expect, support Labour's proposals.

Edward Legard, Conservative, (Darlington)
Thank you for your letter and please accept my apologies for (a) the delay in replying and (b) replying by e-mail.  As you may well imagine, life is a little busy at present!  
I do support both questions contained within your letter and am happy to confirm that publicly.


Eileen Driver, Labour, (Richmond & North Yorkshire)
Hello Tony, I am wholeheartedly with you.

Lawrence Meredith, Liberal Democrat, (Richmond & North Yorkshire)
Many thanks for your letter. I am a lifelong football support (Bradford City, as I am from Bradford. I fully support your campaign. I support the principles of increased supporter engagement, influence and ownership as a central part of improving governance. I commit to working with local supporters to help achieve these questions. Forgive me for this email response. If you would like a formal letter, please let me know and I'll be glad to write - it's just that time is now very short until election day! Please feel free to give me a call if you'd like to discuss any of these issues further.  I hope that we can count on your support this Thursday.

Leslie Rowe, Green Party, (Richmond & North Yorkshire)
Thank you for your e-mail. I do support the principal of greater supporter involvement and ownership of their clubs within a system of better overall governance. This applies to all clubs, not just football. I would willingly work with local supporters’ trust and supporters direct nationally to help achieve these objects. At the end of the day the answer lies with the supporters themselves, being the providers of the financial support all clubs need.


Alan Thompson, Liberal Democrat, (Sedgefield)
Without supporters the soccer scene as we know it would not exist. I think it would be good for the supporters and the game generally if supporters had a share in ownership which in turn would give them influence over 'their' team. Although I support your aims and objectives I cannot commit to working with the Trust without knowing what the commitment meant. I do not wish to make pledges and then find myself unable to fulfil them.


Ian Galletley, Conservative, (Stockton North)
Tony - As a season ticket holder and long-term footie fanatic, of course I support you. You will remember we talked about five years ago in the immediate post-Reynolds debacle. If I am elected, get in touch again. As a councillor, of course I am with you.

Ian Saul, English Democrat, (Stockton North)
I used to be a keen football fan and attended Ayresome Park. However, I have totally lost interest as the game has changed, influx of money and foreign players so I no longer follow football but do play five-a-side twice a week. I was never one for jumping up and down when Middlesbrough scored either - which was all too seldom an event. So, in response to your questions, there are far more pressing matters in England/Stockton right now so I will be unable to support any grass roots movements in football. Sorry, but at least it's an honest answer.

Gordon Parkin, UKIP (Stockton North)
I can inform you that I am in favor of increased supporter engagement.
It is clear that the game of Football is a community activity and the community should have involvement in how the clubs are driven. As an elected representative I would be more than happy to work with local supporters clubs and assist them to reach their objectives. On the same note, I do believe that all three failed parties will now come under the governance of the EU and as such I do believe the union has drastic plans for all clubs in the 27 member states of the Union.
I am unable to quote the directive at this time, however I will be more than happy to research this with my colleagues in Brussels, if you so wish.

Alex Cunningham, Labour, (Stockton North)
Hello Tony - I do agree with your objectives and as a person brought up in Darlington itself from the age of 11 hope things can be changed for the better. Dismal game on Saturday when my nephew was team mascot.


Neil Sinclair. British National Party, (Stockton South)
As a Boro fan since 1969 although not a season ticket holder can I first commiserate with you and the fans of Darlington FC for the position you are now in, I,ve never been to the new ground but have been to Feethams many times in the 60,s/70,s/ + 80,s a ground that was ideally situated in the centre of town, whatever posessed George Reynolds to build the new larger capacity stadium where it is, you probably know better than me.!  As regards your points I agree supporters should have influence, engagement and input in their clubs but wherever it happens apart from a few patronizing noises I doubt it. Your second point is a good one as supporters are the life blood of any club, turning out in all weathers, win or lose and spending their hard-earned cash to support their team and if they decide to vote with their feet the club can find itself in dire financial straits, the position Darlington FC is now in may be the right time for the Supporters Trust to have a say in the future of the club, so I wish you and the club the best of luck for the future.


Jacquie Bell, Liberal Democrat, (Stockton South)
Thank you for your message. Football is an important party of British life. My father attended the 1966 World Cup Final. I grew up in Sheffield - the home of Sheffield FC the oldest Football Club. My son is a long term Boro fan. I have attended Sheffield Wednesday and Berwick Rangers matches in my time with my father/son. I was concerned that a Boro ticket even 10 years ago was a similar price to an opera ticket. I have been concerned by the incoming of foreign stars which give a back tread to British talent. I have been concerned by the takeover of British football by overseas investors.
I'd like to see local people having a greater say in their local clubs and would work with local supporters to achieve this

Yvonne Hossack, Independent (Stockton South)
I do not know enough about the matter to give you a view on the technicalities. But of course the supporters could rely on my help as much as I could give. And if elected I would like, very much, to meet with the Trust

Dari Taylor, Labour, (Stockton South)
Thank you for emailing me. I am working really hard to respond to all the queries which are emailed to me and I will respond to your query soon.

Trust AGM notice

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Coachman Hotel,135 Victoria Road, Darlington DL1 5JJ
Wednesday 2nd June 2010 7.30pm

AGENDA
1. Apologies for absence
2. Minutes of previous meeting
3. Chairman’s Report
4. Secretary’s Report
5. Membership Secretary’s Report
6. Treasurer’s Report
7. Presentation of 2009 Accounts
8. Appointment of Auditors
9. Result of Election for Board Members
10. Any Other Business as notified to the Secretary 14 days prior to the Annual General Meeting

Any Member wishing to propose items for the Agenda must notify the
Secretary in writing with the Agenda item to be added to be received on or before
the 20th May 2010 at the following address:
Hon Secretary
Darlington Supporters’ Trust
P O Box 178
Northallerton DL7 7AG
Tel: 0844 414 2062

Members are also reminded that Nominations for the Board must be
received in writing by the Hon Secretary on or before the 20th May 2010
NB Nomination Forms may be downloaded from the Trust web sites at www.darlotrust.co.uk and www.darlotrustdsg.co.uk. or by contacting the Hon Secretary at the above address.

In line with the Rules of the Trust, you must be a fully paid up member of the Trust (for at least six continuous months prior to the 2nd June 2010) and be nominated by three fully paid up Trust Members.

Your nomination must include your full name, address and contact telephone number and you may include up to 200 words which will be published as your candidate manifesto and circulated with ballot papers. You should sign indicating your agreement to be nominated and this must be counter signed by three full Trust Members, who should also give their name and address.

Please ensure that your nomination reaches the Hon Secretary by the closing date, ie on or before 20th May 2010

Prediction League Match 43

Weak . . . limp . . . lifeless . . . art imitating life?

A perfect description of Darlo’s season as we’re finally confirmed as bottom of the league.

But what a bumper day for Carl Hankin!!! Not only did he pick out the 2-0 scoreline in Grimsby’s favour, but he had Norwich as champions and Darlo to finish bottom in both the league and Darlo sections – points galore. David Munns was the only other manager with the correct scoreline.

Carl, as a result, has rocketed to the top of the league on 130 points, eight ahead of Robert Mitchum on 122 and Andrew Hodgson on 121. Dave Munns has moved up to 27th place with 91 points.

Further promotion and relegation places confirmed are:

Championship – 23rd, Plymouth: Andy Pickersgill, Josh Slack, Lynne Pape, Mark Oneil, Martyn Cripps 2, Neil Raper, Paul Hardy, Peter Armstrong, Peter Ashmore 2, Richard Widmark, Russell Jones, Simon Cowing, Stephen Curtis, Steve Gawthrop, Steve Mann, Sue Oldham, Terry Simpson, Trevor Gretton

League 1 – 1st, Norwich: Abigail Robinson, Adrian Lynch, Andrew Ashmore, Andrew Hodgson, Avril Dent, Buzz Lightyear, Carl Hankin, Chris Mackenzie 1, Chris Vallis, Dave Woods, David Munns, Emma Davis, Gary Woods, Ian Bonsall, James Cagney, James Longstreet, Keith Appleton, Ken Worthington, Martin Simpson, Martyn Cripps 2, Martyn Walton, Matthew Ashmore, Neil Jordison, Paul Hodgson, Peter White, Richard Tilly, Russell Jones, Ryan Longmate, Simon Cowing, Stephen James, Steve Calvert 3, Steve Gawthrop, Sue Oldham, Terry McCann, Victoria Richardson

League 2 – 24th, Darlington: Andy Fairweather-Low, Carl Hankin, Martyn Walton, Paul Johnson 2, Peter White

Local Football – Darlington’s final league postion: 24th - Andy Fairweather-Low, Carl Hankin, Paul Johnson 2, Peter White


It’s the Usual Suspects at the other end of the table – Lance Ireland gamely hanging on to 178th place with 22 points, Raymond Percival trying his hardest on 23 to replace him, with Richard Collin just ahead on 27.

Pete