For those who don’t know, we did it, we only bloomin’ well did it! Darlington have been promoted to the Evo-Stik Premier, just two steps away from the Conference. Following Liam Hatch’s first touch equaliser, a dramatic last minute David Dowson winner against Spennymoor on Wednesday set us up for the play-off final against Bamber Bridge on Saturday. A tense game but goals from Nathan Cartman and Graeme Armstrong were enough to see us through. We can now look forward to playing the likes of Whitby, Blyth, Workington and Kings Lynn. The Spennymoor game was one of the best games of football I’ve seen in quite a while. Two teams playing with passion, pride and a determination to win. If Spennymoor play like that next season they’re sure to finish higher than this year and the very best of luck to them. Anyone who hasn’t been to a non league game I heartily suggest you go and watch your local team, you will be pleasantly surprised at the levels of commitment the players show.
I want to offer my commiserations to Newton Aycliffe who lost 2-0 to Shildon in the League Cup Final on Tuesday night. Good luck for next season. The game was played at Heritage Park which has been our home for these past three years. A massive thank you to all those associated with Bishop Auckland FC. When we leave we will take some very fond memories with us.
The Supporters Group meets again this week, Wednesday 13 May, at 7pm in the Iron Horse. Everyone is welcome to attend but if you can’t make it and have something you’d like to contribute then you can email us at dfcaycliffefans@outlook.com or follow us on twitter @dfcaycliffefans