Darlington under 9s begun their season with a great game against Norton and Stockton.

Several debutants were in the starting line up; Harry Gunnal, Oliver English, Ben Snowden, Jack Shaw, Jack Thompson, Max Atkinson and Issac Marrs. All impressed in their first game for the club.

Ever present Zach Judson and Charlie Cole transferred their form from last season to the first game of this season.

The Quakers started brighter of the two teams, having the majority of the possession in the oppositions half.

9 minutes in a chance was created by Charlie Cole slipping Oliver English through on goal before the Norton keeper fouled the striker, and a penalty was awarded. Charlie Cole stepped up to convert the spot kick.

Darlington got another when Jack Shaw completed a sharp run down the left hand side, before cutting inside to unleash a well struck finish into the far corner.

For the remainder of the half Norton begun to apply some pressure on the Darlington defence, and got some reward. Isaac Marrs and Jack Thompson defended well during this period.

On the stroke of half time a chance fell to the striker of Norton, who found himself 5 yards in front of goal, had an opportunity. However, Zach Judson scrambled to his feet to keep the ball out of his goal. A brilliant save.

As the second half kicked off, it was very much the same as it had finished. Norton applied more pressure on the Darlington goal,

Again it took a fantastic save from Zach Judson to keep the ball out, this time making a 'Gordon Banks' like save to flick the ball round the post after a downwards header.

Ben Snowden grabbed a well deserved goal as Darlington settled into the second half, but Norton kept on battling away for some rewards.

Harry Gunnal scored on his first appearance for the club. A great move saw Charlie Cole strike the post before Harry Gunnal cleaned up to finish the move off with a goal.

A brilliant way to start the season, with lots of positives to take from it. Isaac Marrs received a well deserved man of the match award, proving that he can play anywhere he is needed on the pitch. On the whole a very good display.

Please note that because of FA rules, we are unable to publish the ongoing score and final result