Darlington fans may not have had too much to shout about so far this season but the emergence of David McGurk may provide some encouragement.

The 21-year-old defender capped another impressive performance with his first goal for the club at the weekend.

And while the 12 goals already conceded this season would see the finger of blame pointing firmly towards the Quakers back-line, ironically McGurk has been seen as one of Quakers' best performers.

"David's done very well since he came in," said Tait. "We knew he was a decent player last year but he wasn't quite ready."

The Teessider made just five starts last season but has already surpassed that having started in all six of Quakers' games this term.

It was during pre-season when McGurk made such an impact that Tait felt the defender deserved his chance.

"He's pushed his way into the team this year and he's done very well," said Tait.

"He scored an excellent goal and I think he deserved that."

McGurk's 30th minute header was cancelled out by Lee McEvilly's spot-kick after Gary Pearson was harshly adjudged to have fouled winger Chris Shuker.

Tait spoke to Pearson after the game and he, like the Rochdale players at the time of the incident, were none the wiser as to why referee Paul Robinson pointed to the spot.

"Gaz (Pearson) said he just ran into Shuker and the lad ended up underneath him," said Tait. "We haven't been getting the best of decisions lately and that's just another one."

Tait, meanwhile, has called on his players to bounce back after Saturday's fourth defeat of the season. Quakers face fellow strugglers Carlisle at the Reynolds Arena on Saturday and Tait wants a positive response.

"We can't afford anymore performances like that," said Tait. "We've got to put it right quickly."

l Former Darlington defender Alex Jeannin was sent off for new club Exeter in their 1-1 draw with Tommy Taylor's Farnborough Town at the weekend, who included another ex-Quaker, winger Richard Hodgson.