Craig Liddle took charge of his final game as caretaker manager at Leeds United in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy. New manager Steve Staunton will take over first team affairs from Wednesday morning. Liddle though was proud of the performance in his final game in charge.

Darlington dropped out of the competition thanks to a 2-1 defeat. Quakers were 2-0 down after half an hour but battled back and scored on half time through Mark Convery.. Liddle was delighted with the effort shown by everyone and believes the showing at Leeds can be a foundation for the remainder of the season.

"You can't fault the lads' effort and their work rate. After the first twenty-minutes it was a really good performance. We tried something different and went with three at the back and it only took them ten minutes to catch onto what we were doing. We went back to 4-5-1 and it frustrated Leeds at times," said Liddle.

"It allowed our boys to get on the ball and express themselves and we created chances. I know they had theirs but we have come to a big club and a big stage like Elland Road and put in a performance."

"There was a late chance for Kevin Gall which was blocked. There was talk of a possible handball, but myself and Neil (Maddison) were ready to celebrate as we thought it was in. We can't fault them though because they were absolutely fantastic. I am sure if they put those sorts of performances in between now and the end of the season we will be fine," he continued.

"Without getting too carried away I am proud of their performance. We were 2-0 down and right up against it but I think everyone in the dressing room can be proud of their efforts."