Darlington's youth team bowed out of the FA Youth Cup last night after losing only their second game of the season at Plymouth Argyle, writes Craig Stoddart.

Martin Gray's Under-18 side lost 1-0 at Home Park in the third round, but twice came close to taking the game to extra-time only to hit the woodwork twice.

After coming through the previous two rounds - against Farsley Celtic and MK Dons - Quakers were hopeful of maintaining their momentum which had seen them lose just once in all competitions this season.

But Argyle's Jon Hoyle's scored the evening's only goal in the 59th minute after Darlington keeper, Jack Norton, had saved his initial shot.

As they battled to grab a leveller, Darlington were cruelly denied as striker Gavin Parkin hit the post before Jon McKie headed against the crossbar.

Darlington switch their attentions to the league where they sit three points clear of second-placed Hartlepool.