Darlington manager Tommy Taylor was given breathing space as Barry Conlon's header secured a 1-0 win at home to Bristol Rovers.
The striker rose above Rovers keeper Scott Howie to nod the ball home after 18 minutes.
Darlington deserved their victory though they benefited from a major slice of fortune when the visitors were reduced to 10-men shortly before half-time.
Rovers striker Paul Tait was sent off for head-butting Stuart Whitehead, though even the Darlington new boy seemed bemused by referee Alan Kaye's decision.
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