DAVE Penney has expressed his concern at the recent defensive frailties which are threatening to jeopardise Darlingtons promotion bid.

An impressive defensive record, which has seen them keep 22 clean sheets C more than any other side in the Football League C has provided the foundation for Darlingtons success this season.

But their reputation as shutout kings has come under threat as Quakers have shipped two goals in each of their last three games.

As Darlington enter the most crucial stage of the season, with seven games to go, Penney is keen to eradicate their recent defensive problems.

Our strength has been keeping clean sheets this season, said the Quakers boss.

The fine line between success and failure is putting that ball in the net. Thats the hardest part and were not doing it before the opposition do it.

We had some good chances against Morecambe on Monday, we just couldnt score.

Well start Saturday two-nil down and well kick off then!

The deadline for loan signings is 5pm today and Penney is expected to make one final addition to his squad.

Striker Tommy Wright is rated only 50-50 to face Bradford City on Saturday after suffering a hip injury against Morecambe on Monday. And with Pawel Abbott sidelined, Penneys attacking options are limited.

Jason Kennedy and Ben Parkers loan spells expired this week, but the pair are expected to extend their stay at the club.

Kennedy scored his first goal for Quakers on Monday and Penney has nothing but praise for the Middlesbrough midfielder.

I thought Jason was man of the match by a mile, said Penney.

He has been first class since hes been here.

He was unlucky to hit the bar, and eventually he got a goal.

ö Former Hartlepool United striker Eifion Williams has retired.

He joined Wrexham last summer but has made just 15 appearances after being plagued by hamstring trouble.

9:15am Thursday 27th March 2008

Print

Email this