IT was seven years ago this month that David Hodgson became the last Darlington manager to occupy a top league position - tonight he could repeat the feat.

On September 12, 1998, goals from Marco Gabbiadini and Jason DeVos ensured a 2-1 win at Plymouth, to take Hodgson's men to the summit of the old Third Division.

Second-placed Quakers can go top by beating current League Two leaders Notts County tonight.

The game was brought forward 24 hours - to avoid clashing with England's World Cup qualifier with Wales tomorrow - following a vote from fans.

And Hodgson last night urged his side to put on a determined display for supporters at the Darlington Football Stadium.

"If we're top of the table on Friday night then that's great," said Hodgson. "If we're not then I hope we can come off that pitch knowing we've given it a good go."

Quakers led the Football League's bottom tier for just two games seven years ago, before eventually finishing 11th.

This time around, after six games, Hodgson hopes their current lofty predicament is more than just a brief flirtation.

"It's nice to be in the position we're in, and long may that continue," said Hodgson. "The table doesn't really mean that much just yet because it's still early days.

"But, from our point of view, it's important that build on the start we've made to make sure we stay up there.

"I'd rather we were second in the table in May, but we have to be happy with the start we've made."

Despite conceding two late goals in the 4-4 draw at Chester six days ago, Hodgson insists confidence was restored after the Bank Holiday Monday win over Rochdale. Goals from Simon Johnson and Carlos Logan ensured maximum points, despite skipper Matt Clarke's 56th minute red card.

"I was pleased with the way we responded on Monday after giving four goals away at Chester," said Hodgson.

"We were unfortunate to be reduced to ten men, but I thought we dealt with the situation very well. We showed a lot of character on Monday and it's important that we take that into the Notts County game."

Gudjon Thordarson was yesterday named League Two manager of the month for August after guiding Notts to four wins and two draws.

Hodgson, Rochdale's Steve Parkin and Wycombe's John Gorman were also nominated.

County extended their lead at the top to three points following Monday's 3-2 win at Mansfield. "They're top and we know they will be a difficult side to beat," said Hodgson.

"But they know that we've been doing pretty well too, which should make for a very competitive game.

"We know what we're capable of and if we play to our strengths then I'm sure we'll get the result we want."

Hodgson will make at least one change as Clarke serves a one-match ban following his sending off. Shelton Martis will replace the skipper after recovering from a back problem.

Goalkeeper Sam Russell remains sidelined with a calf injury as Bert Bossu makes his third successive start.

Russell has been advised to rest to allow a blood clot time to clear up, although the young stopper has been able to take part in light training.