Darlington'S lack of a cutting edge contributed to their first defeat of the season last Saturday against opponents who played virtually the last 30 minutes with ten men.

Despite plenty of possession, Quakers were unable to find a way through a dogged Kidderminster Harriers defence after Simon Brown was sent off.

The home side, who have not conceded a goal in their first three League Two games, hung on to take the three points courtesy of an Ian Foster penalty early in the second half. Craig Russell and Matt Clarke were both denied by fine saves from Kidderminster keeper John Danby, but Darlington manager David Hodgson knows he needs more firepower.

However, he is unable to add to his squad at present as the club is still in administration. A new Football League ruling states that such clubs cannot register more than 18 players.

All of which means that the same group of players must find a way to goal when Bristol Rovers visit the newly-named Williamson Motors Stadium tomorrow. The Pirates have started well, their 2-1 home win over Notts County last Saturday preserving their unbeaten record and pushing them into third place in the table.

Former Quakers striker Barry Conlon then makes a quick return to his old stamping ground when League One side Barnsley visit in the Coca Cola Cup first round on Tuesday.