Cooper targets security

26 November 2010 09:19
Darlington manager Mark Cooper is hoping a good run in the FA Cup can help safeguard the club's future for years to come.[LNB] Quakers take on close rivals York City at The Northern Echo Arena tomorrow hoping to secure a place in the third round, when Premier League teams enter the competition.[LNB] Over the years, lower league clubs have benefited hugely from being drawn against a big club and Cooper knows too well the financial rewards a run in the cup can bring to a club like Darlington.[LNB] The Quakers boss has a very good record in the competition, most notably taking Kettering to the fourth round in 2009 and hopes his side can be one of the Blue Square Bet Premier sides to make it through to the third round this season.[LNB] We've seen in recent years the likes of Burton Albion and Exeter getting Manchester United and both took them to replays at Old Trafford, safeguarding their futures for years to come,[LNB] Cooper said.[LNB] It's nice for the club to have something to look forward to. It's a great club, great facilities, great bunch of players and staff.[LNB] There's a lot to look forward to and I think the supporters have seen that over the last few weeks.[LNB] There's bound to be one or two (Conference sides) in the third round, which is fantastic.[LNB] And hopefully the clubs that get through, whether that includes us or not, get their rewards and get a really big club in the third round.[LNB] Cooper also admitted he was hoping to use the game against York to get back to on track after the last minute defeat to Wrexham last weekend.[LNB] Quakers had been on a fivematch unbeaten run before the loss and the manager hopes a win can attract some attention to the club, as well as prove a boost to his squad.[LNB] We had a set back last Saturday, but we want to get back to winning ways again this Saturday, and if we do get through the spotlight comes on to the club again which is great.[LNB] Darlington are asking fans to help clear the pitch this morning ahead of tomorrow's game.[LNB] Quakers are confident the game will go ahead but with more snow forecast they are asking fans to take their shovels to the stadium from 9am today to help get the pitch ready.[LNB] Tea, coffee and bacon sandwiches will be on offer to helpers.[LNB]

Source: Northern_Echo