Darlington Under 23s 2 Consett Blackfyne 2 (Consett won 3-1 on penalties)

Darlington U23s exited the Clem Smith Bowl after a battling performance that saw them come from behind to draw 2–2, before falling short in the penalty shootout.

Blackfyne took control early on, but the lads showed real spirit to fight back. Nelson pulled one back in the first half before striking again late on to level the game and send it to penalties.

Despite a brave effort across the 90 minutes, Darlington couldn’t make it count from the spot as Blackfyne advanced 3–1 on penalties.

Manager Grant Cuthbertson said; “There are plenty of positives to take — character, determination, and togetherness right until the final whistle.”