A LATE goal conceded to Sheffield United on Monday night could not mask an encouraging start to Darlington's last season at Feethams.

The Quakers had matched their First Division opponents for much of an entertaining Worthington Cup first round tie and it took a fine injury-time winner by Laurent D'Jaffo to knock them out.

Andy Collett had shown why he is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the lower divisions by producing three brilliant saves to keep the Blades at bay in the first half.

But the home side enjoyed plenty of possession in the second half and carved out some good openings.

They just failed to take Neil Warnock's side into extra-time, but the performance suggested that manager Gary Bennett is beginning to get things right.

He had picked almost the same side which had beaten Kidderminster Harriers 2-0 on Saturday to earn Quakers their first Nationwide Division Three points of the season.

The only changes saw Mark Convery replace the injured Neil Wainwright - a surprise signing from Sunderland late on Friday - and Richard Hodgson come in for Brian Atkinson.

Hodgson had been the catalyst for Darlington's success against Jan Molby's men, coming off the bench midway through the second half to make an immediate impact.

His deep cross panicked Parfait Medou-Otye into fouling Barry Conlon and Mark Ford converted the penalty. Three minutes later, Hodgson crossed for Danny Mellanby - making his first start for the club - to score.

Quakers now face two tough bank holiday tests, travelling to face bitter rivals Hartlepool United tomorrow and then facing promotion favourites Bristol Rovers at Feethams on Monday night.

The outcome of those games should provide a clearer picture of whether the renewed optimism is justified.