Darlington need their fans more than ever, according to manager David Hodgson.

Second bottom Quakers play host to York City today, aiming to bring to an end a disastrous run which has seen them fail to win in their last 12 games.

Hodgson's men came agonisingly close to halting the slide when they led Scunthorpe by two goals last week, only to end up all square in front of the second lowest crowd of the season.

Any hope Hodgson has of rectifying the situation with new players is proving to be a major problem in the club's current financial state.

The Quakers boss has already conceded that there are no funds available to strengthen his squad, although it is hoped the new 'TASK' scheme set up by supporters this week will help create extra revenue.

According to Hodgson, the club's destiny is in the hands of the supporters.

"Without the fans we haven't got a penny," said Hodgson. "It has not always been the case but we are now at a stage where this football club needs its fans. Not only for the support, but financially too.

"Since I've been back the fans have been fantastic. Obviously we would appreciate more support but I'm wise enough to know that people only come to watch winning teams.

"But this is a time when we need support more than ever."

The Associated Supporters' Kitty will be making bucket collections to help kick-off the new scheme outside the Reynolds Arena before today's game.

Order forms will also be available for fans willing to make regular contributions towards the fund.

Hodgson has warned his players that they must clamp down on the indiscipline which he feels is costing them dearly.

Barry Conlon and Ryan Valentine are facing three-match bans after they were sent off for violent conduct against Scunthorpe.

The pair will appeal against their dismissals after both clashed with Iron defender Andy Butler.

And Clark Keltie will miss today's game after collecting five yellow cards.

"We have a hell of a better chance of winning with 11 men on the pitch!" joked Hodgson.

On a serious note, Hodgson is well aware of a problem which is doing Quakers no favours.

With eight dismissals already, they are bottom of the fair play league and consequently, according to Hodgson, second bottom of the Division Three table.

"I'm going to make a very big point to them that we've got to start growing up and being disciplined," said Hodgson.

"If you're going to go in for challenges you've got to be sure you're going to get the ball. I don't want any back-chatting to officials either. We need to calm our tempers out on the pitch."

Hodgson is still seeking his first win since returning to the club for a third time last month. Quakers last three point haul was against Boston in September.

"I've been impressed with the boys since I came back," said Hodgson. "What I've got to ask is have they got the ability to maintain these standards for the remaining part of the season?

"There's still a long way to go. I've got to question their ability over the next 25 games

Hodgson will keep faith with Neil Wainwright in attack today after the former Sunderland winger impressed alongside Conlon in the 2-2 draw with Scunthorpe last week.

"There is no doubt in my mind that Wainwright will start alongside Conlon," said Hodgson. "His work-rate has been excellent. We know he's not a natural goalscorer but then we never knew what he'd be like in a forward role.

"He's had chances and I'm pretty certain if they come along for him again he will take them."

Hodgson was this week dealt a major blow after Danny Mellanby was ruled out for the rest of the season with a back injury.

The striker will undergo an operation at the end of the month which Hodgson hopes will rectify the problem.

"Danny needs this operation by all accounts," said Hodgson.

"It's really been bringing the lad down. He's been on a low for some time now and he probably feels that he can't enjoy his football in training with the rest of the lads.

"He's getting the operation, which will hopefully sort the problem out, so I'm delighted for him."

The Minstermen, unbeaten in their last seven League games - six of which have been draws - will be without former Quakers defender Richard Hope.

The Teessider is suspended after collecting five yellow cards.

Former Hartlepool loanee Jon Parkin is available after serving a four-match ban and could replace Hope at the back.

"York are very tight at the back and on the front line they're very similar to us so it should be an interesting game," said Hodgson.

"I'm pleased that we managed to put two goals past a very good side last week. We'll always create opportunities. It's just a case of putting them away."

Read more about the Quakers here.