THE lack of a player who can put the ball in the back of the net on a regular basis continues to undermine Darlington's improved performances under caretaker manager Mick Tait.

The problem was highlighted by last Saturday's 2-0 defeat at high-flying Rushden and Diamonds. Quakers produced another fine display to more than match their promotion-chasing opponents, but weren't able to finish off the openings they created.

The defeat at Nene Park was the first of Tait's short reign, but his side have scored only once in the three games since they hammered Exeter 4-0 in the first game after former manager Tommy Taylor's departure.

Tait is hoping to bring in a new striker on loan, but nothing is likely to happen before tomorrow's FA Cup first round tie at Wrexham.

The manager made changes at Rushden, bringing in Stuart Whitehead alongside Matt Clarke and Craig Liddle in a back three designed to counter the home side's dangerous front men.

He also dropped Ian Clark to the subs' bench, with Neil Wainwright playing just off Barry Conlon.

The tactics worked well, but Darlington were undone by two late goals. The home side went ahead in the 78th minute when Onandi Lowe fired in and an own goal by Clarke, whose over-hit back pass squeezed through keeper Andy Collett's legs with three minutes left, sealed Quakers' fate.

Whitehead is again a doubt for tomorrow's match as he is struggling with a stomach injury, but Graham Fenton and Paul Campbell have returned to full training after groin injuries.

Tait will be hoping for more of the same from his players at the Racecourse Ground, but with the added ingredient of an end product in the form of goals.