Quakers seek positive reaction

22 August 2011 15:06
Darlington have to turn Saturday's disappointing performance into a positive by ensuring they do not sink to the same level again, says Marc Bridge-Wilkinson.[LNB] The midfield playmaker came on as a substitute in the 1-0 defeat at Tamworth that few saw coming, especially after last week's impressive showing against Fleetwood Town.[LNB] He revealed a post-match inquest was held in the dressing room at The Lamb, and that the display could prove beneficial long-term.[LNB] He said: "Not one of us sets out to put in a performance like that, but sometimes it happens.[LNB] "In the long run, hopefully, it will prove to be just a little blip and we've got to go into Tuesday and win that game. People might look at this as a kick up the bum that's needed. We've got to make sure now that we don't put in more performances that come anywhere near as bad as that one.[LNB] "The gaffer put his finger on a few things and a few of the lads have as well. Afterwards we had a chat among ourselves to sort things out.[LNB] "A lot of it comes down to simply not being good enough. We know our jobs when we go out there, but today we weren't at the races, it's as simple as that.[LNB] "Tamworth played quite well, but on our day I don't see any team in the division we should be frightened of."[LNB] Tomorrow, Quakers are at home to Alfreton, when Bridge-Wilkinson hopes for a recall after being used as a substitute in each of the past two matches.[LNB] He added: "It can be hard to come on as a substitute and when you do that first and foremost you want to do as well as possible to try to stay in the side. It was difficult to get on the ball too much, but I tried, and we'll see what happens on Tuesday."[LNB] Meanwhile, Cooper has explained Michael Smith's surprise inclusion in the squad on Saturday. The striker was last week on trial at Watford, for whom he impressed during an outing for the reserves, and the clubs are now negotiating a deal.[LNB] Cooper said: "The two clubs are talking, but until that scenario changes he is still our player."[LNB] Smith was among the substitutes as a replacement for Paul Arnison, who did not travel to Tamworth as he was ill.[LNB] Darlington's youth team also lost their first game of the season on Saturday. They were defeated 2-1 at Scunthorpe United, with Danny Lambert having put Quakers ahead.[LNB]

Source: Northern_Echo