After an impressive win away at Oldham Athletic in the last round, Darlington’s Academy side welcomed Marine to Northallerton in the last 32 of the national cup.

A scrappy first half ended level thanks in part to a solid display of goalkeeping from Mason including an excellent point blank save.

An explosive 15 minute spell from the hosts proved decisive as the tempo and energy lifted and the lads got their reward. Excellent work from Wardle on the wing, driving into the box resulted in a penalty being awarded. McLoughlin was composure personified as he comfortably dispatched the spot kick. 1-0.

The second goal would have made the closing montage on Match of the Day. Skipper Maw regained possession on the edge of the area before feeding the ball to the onrushing Hodgson. A clean strike was fired in from 20 yards, kissing the inside of the post before nestling into the back of the net. 2-0.

Seconds later, the win was sealed as Hinckes pressed the visiting goalkeeper and was rewarded for his hard work with an open goal. 3-0.

Character, togetherness, moments of real quality underpinned with good old fashioned hard work ensures the lads will be keeping an eye on the last 16 draw with interest.

Thanks as always to our hosts and friends at Northallerton Town. Up the Darlo.

Final Score: Darlington 3-0 Marine