MARTIN Smith felt his honesty cost Darlington a penalty during Saturday's derby stalemate at Hartlepool United.

The forward was denied a spot-kick early in the second half after choosing to stay on his feet in the box, despite contact from Hartlepool skipper Micky Barron.

And, frustratingly, Smith revealed had he gone to ground, referee Mark Clattenburg was prepared to award a penalty.

"It was a good point for us, but I thought we should have had a penalty," said Smith. "I went past a couple of defenders and Micky Barron put an arm out and pushed me.

"I could easily have gone down, but I thought I'd be honest. I tried to stay on my feet and get a shot off, but by then I'd lost my balance.

"The referee said if I'd have gone down he would have given it, so what chance have you got?

"People go on about diving, but if you try and stay on your feet you get nothing for it. It's disappointing, but I think we have to be happy with the result."

Smith was also quick to pay tribute to Darlington's fierce rivals, who were on top for much of the game.

"It was a typical derby and I can see Hartlepool doing very well this season," said Smith. "I think any team that comes away from here with a point has to be happy. We had one or two chances of our own, but I don't think we deserved anything more than a draw.

"We had to dig deep and I thought our lads at the back performed tremendously well.

"Derby games are always tough away from home, but I thought we showed a lot of character and I think that in itself deserved a point."

Saturday's draw signalled the end of a four-game spell under caretaker boss Martin Gray.

With David Penney taking control today, Smith and the players will be pleased to see Gray continue at first-team level, as coach.

"I think a few weeks ago we might have got nothing from this game and I think it shows just how far we've come," said Smith.

"Martin has done very well and the last three games have been a big plus. We know what he's capable of and I think a young, hungry coach, who is keen to do well, can only be a good thing.

"He's not the oldest of coaches but he has the respect of the dressing room, which goes a long way.''