Cleckheaton 7 - 36 Darlington

Last Saturday's visitors to Moorend showed just what can be achieved with bags of spirit, a never say die approach and a determination to 'play for the shirt'. Darlington arrived in West Yorkshire with one league and one cup victory to their name in the entire season. They have conceded over 700 points and are already bound for North Two East. Urged on by their vociferous supporters their day was made complete with a four tries to one victory. Just what can be said of Cleckheaton's dispiriting performance is probably best left to the home changing room.

Darlington started with the benefit of a strong wind and within two minutes were seven points up after a tackle on halfway resulted in No.8 James Knox galloping over for a try which was converted by scrum half Shaun Richardson. A drop goal from visiting skipper Lee Richardson and two penalties from his brother Shaun extended the lead before Cleck replied with a good try from Ben Wade, converted by Ross Hayden. At half time a nine point deficit did not appear insurmountable given the benefit of a strong wind and pride to play for.

Unfortunately the home team continued their malaise of 2009. Three further tries, one conversion and a penalty reflected much credit on a youthful Darlington side which showed great resilience to react to recent heavy defeats on their travels and their victory marked a humiliating conclusion to Cleck's home league season.

Two further league games to go at Morley on Saturday and at Sheffield Tigers on 18th April.In between the two dates is the little matter of a Yorkshire Cup 1st round tie against Rotheram Titans at Moorend on Tuesday 7th April with a 7.30 kick off.