The Darlo v Pools derby returns!
By Ray Simpson
Supporters' match in aid of LGBTQ+ awareness causes
If you’ve missed your Darlo vs. Hartlepool United derbies in recent years, then you will be excited to hear that they are back – via both clubs' supporters’ groups!
DFCSG will be taking on HUST – Hartlepool United Supporters Trust – in a friendly game at Stockton Town’s Bishopton Road West ground at 3pm on Sunday 12th December, in aid of LGBTQ+ awareness causes.
The aim of the day will be to promote both Rainbow Laces and HartGables, a support service for those who identify as LGBTQ+ across the Tees Valley area, and see two local rivals coming together on the pitch to promote and celebrate sport and diversity in our local communities.
The game will take place only four days after Rainbow Laces Day, which is scheduled for Wednesday 8th December this year, and the day after our home clash with AFC Fylde at Blackwell Meadows.
The match will be free to watch, so come along to support the event and enjoy the game. The atmosphere will be friendly and fun. Stockton Town is a great, modern venue with covered spectator areas and the bar will also be open. The game will be played on a ‘state of the art’ 3G pitch.
We are also requesting for DFC Owners (ie, DFCSG members only) that want to be part of the Darlo squad on the day to get in touch!
If you wish to be considered (numbers are limited), then please email your name, telephone number, DFCSG membership number and preferred playing position to DFCSG Director, David Portas, on david.portas@darlingtonfc.org by 5pm on Friday 26th November.
The expected cost-per-player will be between £15-£20 each to cover costs of the game and some other Rainbow Laces initiatives that are planned for the day. You will be provided with some rainbow laces to wear in the match, as well as kit (but bring your own boots!).
If you do want to be considered for the squad, be it this particular game or for future DFCSG matches, but you’re not yet a DFC Owner/DFCSG member, please click here to find out more and get involved!
David Johnston, DFC’s Chief Executive, will be DFCSG’s player-manager on the day, a celebrity referee is in place and we will also be hopefully including a ‘Darlo legend’ in our squad! Watch this space…
We look forward to seeing some of you on Sunday 12th December and renewing old (but friendly…) rivalries!
