Under-pressure Darlington boss Mick Tait has received the backing of chairman George Reynolds in his bid to steer the club clear of relegation.

Quakers have recorded just one win from their last 12 and defeat at third-placed Scunthorpe tomorrow could bring them within a point of the relegation trapdoor.

Reynolds, who appointed Tait on a caretaker basis following Tommy Taylor's departure in October, shares the manager's belief that Third Division football will grace Darlington's new stadium next season and not Conference football as many are beginning to fear.

"Mick's very confident we won't go in to the Conference and I believe him," said Reynolds.

"I was talking to Mick after the Boston game and he was absolutely gutted.

"I feel sorry for him because you can see how much the job means to him."

Tait has became increasingly frustrated by his side's failure to capitalise on teams seemingly there for the taking this season - a factor which has ultimately been their downfall and could yet cost them dear.

Reynolds isn't prepared to take out Quakers' dismal run on Tait, who he feel is doing the job to the best of his ability.

Reyonds asked: "If you have somebody in an office and they're giving 100 per cent how would you take them down, sit them in front of you and tell them they're sacked?

"It's a very difficult situation, but I cannot fault Mick for commitment. I've never once doubted him and I'm confident he can get us out of this.

"We've got great fans and they've got to get behind the team and the manager. And providing they avoid relegation, Reynolds has promised to go "flat out" next season in a bid to bring success to a club he brought from the brink of extinction in 1999.

"Even if I brought in another five players there's no guarantee that they're going to come in and get the results," said Reynolds.

"We've brought a new striker in (Jim Corbett) but we have to remember that it's going to take him time to settle in.

"I'm in a position where I've done everything I can.

"Money isn't a problem for us and we have some of the biggest earners in the division. If we can stay up this season we'll definitely get up next season because I'll go flat out."

Read more about the Quakers here.