Darlington had double reason to celebrate on Saturday as not only did David Hodgson's side strengthen their place in the play-off zone but the youth team also went a step closer to clinching the title after racking up their latest win, writes Craig Stoddart.

Hours before Darlington's 3-0 win over Leyton Orient, Quakers' youngsters recorded the same scoreline against York City and now sit three points clear of second-place with five games to play but their title rivals have played twice more, so confidence is sky-high ahead of tomorrow night's FA Youth Cup third round clash at Plymouth Argyle.

After winning ten of 13 league games Martin Gray's team need just seven points from their remaining five league meetings to clinch the championship in the North-East Conference of the Football League Youth Alliance.

"We dominated for 80 to 90 per cent of the game and York didn't really have a spell when they got back into it so that is excellent, it shows good concentration levels," said Gray.

Goals from Gavin Parkin, Andrew Bulford and an own goal gave Quakers a victory which puts the youth side in good fettle for the trip south during which they will use Bristol City's training facilities.

Tomorrow night's game is being played at Plymouth's Home Park and the winners will be at home in January to either Crewe or Stockport who meet on Wednesday.