A DETERMINED fightback ensured that Leyton Orient failed to spoil Darlington's Feethams farewell party last Saturday.

It looked as though the last game to be played at the old ground would end in a deflating defeat for Quakers when the visitors moved into a two-goal lead as half-time approached.

But Jim Corbett pulled a goal back just before the break and substitute Neil Wainwright had the honour of scoring the last Feethams goal when he headed in the equaliser after 76 minutes.

The goal sparked wild celebrations on an emotional day for the fans, who gave Neil Maddison a standing ovation when he was introduced as a substitute for probably his last appearance in a Darlington shirt.

It seemed the occasion would prove too much for Mick Tait's players when they made a slow start, falling behind to a goal from Matt Lockwood after 26 minutes. A mistake by Stuart Whitehead let in Gary Alexander to increase Orient's lead, but Quakers clawed their way back into the game.

The point gave Darlington a final position of 14th in Division Three, a showing they will be keen to improve on when they start next season in their new Neasham Road stadium.

Quakers fans will be hoping the club can secure loan stars Corbett and Tom Newey on permanent deals and that promising youngsters such as Clark Keltie and Ashley Nicholls can continue to improve.

If they can, and with experienced men like Andy Collett, Craig Liddle and Barry Conlon giving the side a strong spine, it's just possible the club's plush new home could witness a serious promotion challenge.