NOW that we are safe from relegation I'm really looking forward to this weekend's matches where the fight to stay in the League is really hotting up.

As I've said before, I wouldn't wish relegation from the Football League on anyone, but it does make things very interesting. Exeter seemed dead and buried just over a week ago, but they have hit a bit of form and it seems like Shrewsbury are the favourites to go down at the moment.

This weekend sees the end of another season and I must admit the sooner it ends the better for us at Darlington. Again it has been a very disappointing season and it is a shame that we have been unable to have any sort of success in our final season at Feethams.

Saturday will be a very emotional day for the supporters and a few of the players who have been at the club for a few years like myself. I've had five very enjoyable years there and have some fantastic memories of the ground. The two highlights for me have both been derby games against Hartlepool. The first was the play-off semi-final win, which saw us book our place in the final at Wembley. It was a fantastic night and one I will never forget. The second was this season's draw, when I managed to score the equaliser - the last derby goal to be scored at the ground. Win, lose or draw on Saturday I'm sure our fans are going to make it a day to remember.

Finally, congratulations to Micky and the rest of the lads at Hartlepool on their promotion to the Second Division.

No-one can argue that they haven't deserved it, but I must admit to being a little bit jealous. Also well done to the four lads named in the PFA team of the season. Having been in the team myself before, I know how much it will mean to them to be voted the best players in their positions by their fellow professionals.

Published: 29/04/2003