DARLINGTON FC say they are missing out on vital revenue due to pubs in the area streaming online coverage of their matches.

That is the concern expressed by chief executive David Johnston, who acknowledges the activity is not illegal but is costing Quakers money, and suggested the establishments could hold a collection for the club.

With all of Darlington’s matches currently being played behind-closed-doors due to government-imposed restrictions, the volunteer-ran club launched Quaker TV last week and it has been immediately successful.

The two games covered so far - versus Prescot Cables and Kidderminster Harriers – cost £8 each to watch online, and the next one is this evening when Darlington play Tadcaster Albion in the FA Cup.

As with the previous two fixtures, online coverage of the third qualifying round tie at Blackwell Meadows will generate funds at a time when finances are a major concern for clubs around the country, but there is concern pubs will show it.

Johnston said: “People need to realise that they’re taking revenue out of Darlington when the club needs the revenue.

“We don’t mind people gathering to watch the game. We’re trying to do something for the football club in difficult times, we’ve got the live stream but having 50 people in a pub for the price of one ticket does nothing for us.

“Maybe pubs could hold a collection and donate to the club as we have costs to cover.”