Darlington manager Mick Tait believes he is ready to see the best of his squad - because competition for places is bringing out the best in his players.

Tait wants to see his players fight for their places ahead of tomorrow's Third Division clash with Doncaster Rovers at the Reynolds Arena.

Victory for Quakers could take them into the top half of the table for the first time this season.

Despite last week's comfortable win over Carlisle, Tait warned places are far from secure.

With winger Neil Wainwright pushing for a recall after recovering from a groin injury and Glen Robson staking his claim for a starting place with a goal for the reserves in midweek, Tait has plenty to mull over.

"I want them all fit and I want them all battling for a place," said Tait. "That's the only way you get the best out of players when they're all fighting for their place.

"It's good to have a bit of competition because it keeps everyone on their toes."

Tait will take another look at Keith O'Halloran in next week's reserve game against Bradford.

The former Middlesbrough and St Johnstone midfielder, who was released by Swindon at the end of last season following a broken leg, played in Wednesday's reserve team win at Notts County and Tait said: "Keith is a good player, there's no doubt about it.

"But he needs to show me that he can be match fit because you don't take chances with things like that."

The draw for the LDV Vans trophy first round takes place tomorrow. Northampton, Swansea, Bury and Huddersfield have already been handed byes into the second round.

Read more about the Quakers here.