Quakers to play friendly against Boro Under 23s on Wednesday

Darlington are pleased to announce that Quaker legend Craig Liddle, who now coaches Middlesbrough Under 23s, has agreed to bring his exciting young side to Blackwell Meadows this Wednesday night for a friendly.

Boro are currently top of the Premier Reserve League 2 with an excellent record this season, having won eight of their twelve league games, while some of the players have been involved in the first team. Lewis Wing, who had a brief spell at Darlington four seasons ago, is a regular in the Under 23s.

Darlington manager Tommy Wright, who intends to field a full strength team in the game, said: “We need some match practice because we haven't played for nearly a month and the lads are chomping at the bit. We're very grateful to Boro for sending a team.”

“Lidds” needs no introduction to Darlo fans. After a long and distinguished playing career as a player at the club, he became manager at the start of the club’s third administration in December 2011, and despite all the problems associated with the administration and the exit of several players, conducted himself impeccably and managed to field a team every week for the rest of that very difficult season.

“I have fond memories of Darlington, and it will be great to see some of the old faces again. It would be great for plenty of Boro and Darlington fans to come along and watch what should be a very good game,” he said.

Admission to the game will be £5 for adults and concessions, with children under 11 free. Kick off is 7.45pm.

Details of hospitality will be announced soon.

Darlington FC would like to thank Darlington Rugby Club for their help and co-operation in helping to organise the game at short notice.