Saturday is the day that Darlington fans have been waiting for since 2012.

Not since the players disappeared down the tunnel at the Northern Echo Arena after the game against Kettering in April 2012 have the fans seen the team play a game in the town, and tomorrow (Saturday) that will change when Newcastle United send a team to play Quakers in a friendly. Sunderland are also sending a team for another friendly on Tuesday night.

Darlington director John Tempest said; “It’s fantastic that after four years away, we will be playing a game back in the town. We’ve got some great opposition for the next two matches, and it would be great to see Darlington fans turn out in force to see the team against good opposition.

“Virgin Trains are also sponsoring the game, and handing out discount vouchers on rail travel at the turnstiles. That is a big incentive to attend in itself.”

Manager Martin Gray is eagerly looking forward to the game. “It’s excellent for the fans that Sunderland and Newcastle are sending strong teams to play us. Newcastle are including players who have been capped for their countries, and so they will be a good test for our lads.”

Admission to the game is £10 for adults and £6 for concessions.

Both these friendlies will be played at the Arena, then home games in the Vanarama National League North will be played at Heritage Park until Blackwell Meadows is ready.