DARLINGTON say The Northern Echo Arena is a potential venue for their Durham Challenge Cup tie against Hartlepool United.

The third round match will be played later this month, with Quakers having been handed a home tie with Pools after beating Esh Winning and Stockton Town in previous rounds.

However, Darlington have revealed that the game could be switched from Blackwell Meadows to their former 25,000-capacity home, now occupied by Mowden Park Rugby Club.

In the match programme for Saturday’s game with Kidderminster Harriers, a 3-0 win, Darlington chief executive David Johnston said: “As I write it is not clear where we will play this fixture, either here at Blackwell or at the Arena.

“This decision is currently under discussion with the local Safety Advisory Group and will be influenced by policing and security.

“I appreciate that this fixture has not been played for several years but I could I please ask for a trouble-free evening while showing your passionate support for our club.”

Though not a competition high among the priorities of either club, Darlington have used it this season to give runouts to handful of first-team players.

The match with Hartlepool is to be played week preceding January 26, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.

The other third round ties are Sunderland RCA v South Shields, Shildon v Consett and Gateshead v Dunston UTS/Hebburn Town.

Dunston UTS and Hebburn Town play their second round tie on Tuesday.