Darlo v Grimsby Preview

By: Alex Green
Date: 23/04/2010

TOWN mosey up to the Darlington Arena in aid to prolong that glimmer of hope? Also to get that awful picture of the fat woman off the front page.

Their History

In the summer of 1883 in the bowels of the local grammar school a number of professional and part-time footballers met to organise a club, which would represent the town of Darlington. In 1886 Darlington ventured into the FA Cup for the very first time to meet the almighty Grimsby Town Football Club and our Mighty Mariners duly handed the Quakers an 8-0 thumping. You're welcome. After impressing in the North Eastern League Darlington were promoted to the newly formed Division 3 in 1920 and in their debut season finished 2nd promoting them to Division 2 which they were subsequently relegated from the following season. Modern days have seen off the pitch antics taking centre stage. Outlandish bids for former stars (Asprilla and Gascoigne.) huge stadiums former safe breakers and a few defeats at Wembley.

This Season

Has been a disaster for Darlington attendances of little over 1,500 and financial struggles mean the Quakers have been planning for The Conference since the turn of the year. All of which seems to be working there has been a definite upturn in form and those who they wish to retain will most certainly be in the know by now. The club have had 4 managers in less than a year, Dave Penney, Colin Todd, Steve Staunton and Simon Davey have all led the club at some time since the turn of April in 2009. At the start of the season Darlington had to all but rebuild their squad and it showed in results with most dooming them to the conference before Christmas.

The Ground

Is there any other defining piece of architecture which will define the opulent era of football we are now leaving. The fantastic arena wouldn't be out of place in the Premiership and for those visiting are going to witness a very unique experience. An all but empty stadium limited to 10,000 by the council at the moment is barely 10% full for most games. Tickets can vary from £16- £18 depending on when you purchase them for an adult