DETERMINED skipper Craig Liddle last night warned his relegation-threatened Darlington teammates: "We're all playing for our futures."
The former Middlesbrough man was at the heart of the Quakers defence when they only drew at home to lowly Exeter City on Saturday - a result which leaves Mick Tait's men just seven points above the drop zone.
Liddle, who leads his side out at third from bottom Boston United tomorrow, has urged the rest of the squad to show some much-needed fighting spirit.
"We're playing for our careers and it doesn't seem to mean enough to certain people," said Liddle, who will make his 200th appearance in a Darlington shirt at York Street.
"It might be a bit harsh but that's the way it is.
"The sooner we get points on the board the better; then we can start planning for next season."
Liddle also revealed that a half-time ear-bashing from caretaker boss Tait left many players reflecting on their commitment at such a crucial stage of the season.
Darlington have won just once in their last 11 games - form which has seen them hover just above the Nationwide Conference trapdoor.
Liddle admitted he is desperate to see a drastic improvement.
After tonight's Third Division matches, Darlington could go into the clash with the Pilgrims with just four points separating them from the relegation zone.
It is a thought which has left Liddle believing anything less than a draw is not even worth contemplating.
He said: "Mick had a right go at us at half-time (against Exeter).
"He questioned people's attitudes and to be honest certain people have got to take a look at themselves.
"Boston is a mustn't lose game really. We'll have to do 100 per cent better than we did in the first half against Exeter otherwise we'll end up getting battered."
Liddle also warned the Feethams boo boys to lay off Richard Hodgson after the winger was targeted against the Grecians.
"Hodgy came in for a bit of stick from supporters on Saturday, which I thought was a bit unfair," said Liddle.
"I think some people seem to forget that he's still only a young lad."
There's no doubt that team morale is a key factor in Quakers' battle to beat the drop and as long as players continue to help and encourage each other Liddle feels they won't go far wrong.
"We're all there for each other and I think that's important," said Liddle, who knows Darlington have only won eight games in the League this season.
"We're having to fight for our lives now so we've got to start putting in the same performances as Exeter have done away from home."
Read more about the Quakers here.
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