DARLINGTON have altered their pre-season plans by deciding to send their first team to play Newton Aycliffe next week.

The fixture against the Northern League club was originally designated as a game for Quakers’ youth players, but manager Martin Gray has now decided to field a strong team next Wednesday at Moore Lane.

Quakers kick-off their pre-season preparations with a friendly at Shildon on Saturday, and Gray will give most of his first-team a run-out of around an hour.

Those who do not play the majority of the match at Dean Street are more likely to be given game time at Aycliffe, who are managed by former Quakers striker Danny Mellanby.

Kick-off at Shildon will be 3pm, while the match at Aycliffe starts at 7pm.

A handful of trialists will are currently training with Darlington, and they will play some part on Saturday.

Quakers' pre-season friendlies

Sat July 8 - Shildon (a), 3pm

Wed, July 12 - Newton Aycliffe (a), 7pm

Mon, July 17 - Newcastle U23s (Arena, 7pm)

Fri, July 21 - Bishop Auckland (a), 7pm

Wed, July 26 - Gateshead (a), 7.30pm 

Sat, July 29 - Guiseley (a), 3pm