Four second half goals helped Darlington progress in the FA Cup with a comfortable win over Hartlepool Women.

Goals from Hattie Raine (2), Lily Wilkinson, Aimee Dagnall and  Holly Nattress were too much for Hartlepool, and assistant manager Stu Burkin said; “What a way to start the season with a 5-0 triumph over local rivals. The girls played some very good football in the second half, and put the Hartlepool defence under constant pressure. I was delighted for everybody who played a part. Let’s hope we can keep it going in the next round at Carlisle.”

The girls were at it from the first whistle, showing great intensity with our women enjoying lots of possession and going close on a number of occasions. Just when you feel it's going to be one of those days up popped Hattie Raine to open her account for the season with a clever dink over the onrushing Hartlepool keeper just before the break.

More of the same was the order of the day for the second half and again the girls rose to the challenge. Lily Wilkinson was on target early in the 2nd half converting from a well won ball by Jen Harrison, the ball was played down the line, Jen refused to give it up and delivered a great ball in for Lily to slot home. Again the girls were in complete control of the game and more chances came. The pick of the goals was from Aimee Dagnall who seized on a goal kick. Her first touch took the ball out of her feet and a screamer from 35 yards made the score 3-0. Hattie Raine was then on target once again to secure her brace with an accomplished shot into the bottom left giving the keeper no chance after good work from Lily Wilkinson who provided the assist.

The scoring was finished off with a lovely finish from debutant Holly Nattrass. Playing her first competitive game at senior level and what a way to finish the game. After moving into the middle Holly picked up a loose ball ,drove past three defenders before slotting home. A well deserved goal for this young talent.

A first clean sheet of the season for Beatrice Whitley and the team rounded the day off perfectly.

What a way to start the season with a 5-0 triumph over local rivals and on to the next round of the FA cup with an away tie to Carlisle Utd Women on 6th September.

A massive Thankyou to Hartlepool for the game and we will see you in the league, home and away. Safe journey home.