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Darlington looking to end "nearly men" tag
By Nathan Jackson July 21 2006
Darlo have finished 8th in the past 2 season and despite bringing in a few good signings, it could be more disappointment. Darlington had a pretty inconsistent year last year and never looked like having a realistic playoff chance but some of their fans seem to think they're title favourites.

Manager : Hodgson

Key Player : Martin Smith

Tipped by many for : Playoff push

Last Season : Darlington proved to be the "nearly men" again after finishing 8th the second season in a row, a full 3 points behind the playoffs but 8th wasn't such a bad achievement considering that they won just 4 of their opening 21 games. A perfect example of their early season came with an early trip to Chester and despite being 4-2 up going into added on time, the game finished 4-4 as Darlington couldn't cope with the pressure. A run of 6 wins in 10 around the Christmas time saw them climb significantly up the table before just 1 win in 8 saw them fall back down again. Winning 4 of their last 8 games helped them finish 8th but it was hardly a convincing season for Darlo.

This season : Darlo have brought in some good players over the summer including proven goal scorer, Martin Smith but Darlington's problem is they're way too inconsistant and given that this division is harder than last season, it could prove to be another season of disappointing for Darlo. Last season was the weakest the division's been in a while and you get the feeling that 63 points in any other season would see you finish midtable. I get a feeling they'll challenge for the playoffs without ever entering the top 7.

They’ll do better if: Smith and Conlon can produce at least 35 goals between them and they can find some consistency because that's what they've been lacking.

Prediction : 11th, although not a bad season, Darlo fans will more than likely end up disappointed.

 

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