DARLINGTON manager Tommy Taylor was yesterday left to count the cost of a bruising battle at Brunton Park on Tuesday night.

Although delighted with a 3-1 victory - only the Quakers second three point haul on their league travels this season - and the performance of his players, Taylor admitted the win came at a high price.

The major casualties were full-back Simon Betts, who is unlikely to figure again this season after suffering a horrific injury just above the knee, and goalscorer Mark Ford who will be missing for the next few weeks with a groin strain.

Taylor said: "It was a battle and they were very aggressive. We picked up a few injuries in the game.

"Betts has a deep gash above his knee and it looks like he could be out for the rest of the season.

"Ford's got a groin injury so he'll be out for a fortnight. Atkinson will have a few stitches put in because he's had a whack in the face."

The gash above Betts knee, caused by an over-the-top tackle, was so deep that the players bone was visible as Quakers physio Steve Collins explained.

"It was so bad the doctor wouldn't touch it and immediately called for an ambulance," he said.

"The wound is four inches long, two inches wide and down to the bone."

The injuries mean Taylor has his fingers crossed that a few of his walking wounded will be back in contention for Saturday's game at home to Shrewsbury.

He said: "Hopefully we'll have some players back at the weekend. Hopefully Brightwell will be back and he'll be able to slot in there beside Pearson."

Taylor has been delighted with Gary Pearson's form at the heart of the defence with the midfielder a revelation since slotting into his new role as centre-half.

"He had another great game for us," said Taylor.

"He didn't react to the provocation he received from the Carlisle players.

"What he gives us is that little bit of extra speed we need every now and again in defence."

* Wimbledon manager Terry Burton has rejected an attempt by Leyton Orient to sign loan striker Wayne Gray.

The 21-year-old has scored five times in 11 games for the Third Division club in two months at Brisbane Road. But Gray will return to Wimbledon after the third month of his loan deal after Burton knocked back a bid by Orient, way below his valuation.

Burton said: ''It wasn't a serious offer for a promising goalscorer and I'm certainly not looking to sell him.''

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