GOALKEEPER Sam Russell believes it will be only a matter of time before Darlington break into the play-off pack on current form.

Quakers moved up to ninth in League Two with Saturday's win at Rushden & Diamonds. David Hodgson's men have now won four of their last six League games.

Russell, who twice denied Diamonds striker Gary Mulligan to preserve Quakers' lead, is confident a top seven place is well within their reach.

"I didn't even realise that we'd won four of our last six games until Mark Proctor told me after the game," admitted Russell.

"If we can carry on in that kind of form I don't see any reason why we shouldn't be up there challenging for a play-off place at least.

"Defensively, we have proved we are sound and there are lads at the other end who are always capable of putting the ball in the back of the net."

Russell has made the No 1 spot his own this season, since moving from hometown club Middlesbrough on a free transfer.

The 22-year-old has kept six clean sheets in 18 appearances this season and was outstanding in Saturday's win at Nene Park.

However, with last season's virtual ever-present Michael Price standing by, Russell knows his place in the side is by no means assured.

He said: "I can't get complacent because there are always people who are going to want my place.

"I'm delighted with the way things have gone for me at Darlington.

"I'm just grateful that David Hodgson has given me the opportunity to kick-start my career here."

While Russell played his part in Saturday's win, the former Middlesbrough keeper was quick to praise the defenders in front of him.

He said: "Losing players like Craig Liddle, Joey Hutchinson and Curtis Fleming was hugely disappointing, but the lads who have came in have done a fantastic job.

"If we can keep defending like we have been and putting the goals in at the other end we have no reason not to set our sights high.

"I don't think there was a bad performance on the pitch today. I thought all the lads were outstanding.

"It's another win under the belt so we're all over the moon.

"I think we deserved the three points and most importantly it takes us that little bit further up the table."

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