A CLYDE Wijnhard penalty was enough to give Darlington an important three points last Saturday, but an improved performance will almost certainly be needed if the Quakers are to take anything from tomorrow's game at Rushden and Diamonds.

Wycombe Wanderers left the Williamson Motors Stadium feeling hard done by after losing to the first spot kick awarded at Darlington's new home.

They were denied what looked a certain penalty of their own when Joe Kendrick appeared to bring down Nathan Tyson in the area, while the home side's winner came after referee Paul Robinson decided that Mike Williamson had pushed Wijnhard.

It was a controversial verdict, but the Dutch striker kept his composure to put his side ahead ten minutes before half-time.

Both sides hit the post in the second half, but Darlington struggled to find any rhythm after the break and keeper Sam Russell needed to be at his best to deny the visitors an equaliser.

Quakers now lie 12th in League Two and are well placed to mount a promotion challenge, but the same can be said of tomorrow's opponents.

Rushden only trail David Hodgson's side on goal difference and should be full of confidence after thumping Notts County 5-1 last Saturday.

Skipper Neil Maddison is expected to be fit for the trip to Nene Park despite suffering from a sore Achilles.

Meanwhile, Darlington have been drawn at home to League Two promotion contenders Yeovil Town in the first round of the FA Cup.

The game, against a club which gained a reputation as Cup giant-killers during their non-league days, takes place next Saturday, November 13.