DAVID HODGSON last night congratulated Paul Simpson on his efforts at leading Carlisle United from the Conference to the top of League Two, before cheekily vowing to bring the Cumbrians down with a bang.

Three of Carlisle's last nine league games have featured 5-0 wins and on the back of their third straight victory, 3-0 at Northampton last Friday, Simpson's men are in rampant mood. Former Sunderland striker and one-time Quakers target Michael Bridges has netted seven goals in his last eight appearances.

But, with promotion aspirations of his own, Hodgson remains unmoved by Carlisle's form and is relishing the prospect of pitting his wits against the leaders.

Quakers closed to within five points of a play-off place following Saturday's less-than-convincing win over Chester.

And while they may not have the same impressive momentum Carlisle have gathered, Hodgson is confident of causing an upset.

"Carlisle are on a very good run at the minute and Paul Simpson deserves credit for that," said Hodgson.

"He's done an excellent job this season and Carlisle are now in an excellent position to go up automatically. That doesn't really interest me and what matters is what happens here, at Darlington.

"Not for one minute will we fear Carlisle because we know, on our day, we fear no-one.

"I have no doubt that, if we perform, we will beat Carlisle on Saturday."

Hodgson will be forced to make at least one change after an unsuccessful appeal against Clark Keltie's sending off against Chester.

The midfielder was dismissed for violent conduct after clashing with Ryan Lowe.

It had been hoped that the intervention of Lowe, who contacted the FA to defend Keltie, would help overturn the red card.

But yesterday the FA stood by their decision and Keltie will now serve an immediate four-match ban. Matty Appleby is in contention to replace Keltie after returning from suspension.

Injury-plagued midfielder Phil Stamp is unlikely to play any part, due to a problem with a nerve in his back.

Read more about the Quakers here.