Story by Kevin Luff - 24th March 2006
Skipper Matt Clarke targetting three points
Darlington captain Matthew Clarke believes that the game against Barnet will involve one of the most important three points of the season. With a seven point gap between Quakers and seventh spot it would take a mammoth effort to make up the difference. However the skipper says whilst it is still mathematically possible he and the rest of the players will give it their all.
Last weekend's 5-0 defeat against Carlisle was a difficult one to stomach. Quakers more than deserved to be on level terms for the commencement of the second half but instead found themselves behind. Worse was to follow in the second period but after a good week's training Clarke says the result is now at the back of their minds.
"The weekend was upsetting for obvious reasons, getting beaten 5-0 is not going to be a highlight of any professional's career but the most important thing for us was when we came in on Monday that we remained focused, upbeat and that we didn't dwell on it," said Clarke. "We came in with that manner, we've responded well, it's at the back of our mind and we can now concentrate on getting the most important three points at Barnet over the weekend."
Barnet will prove a stern test. The Underhill based side are well down the table after a good start to the season. Results of late, save for defeats against pace setters Carlisle and second placed Grimsby Town, have improved. Whilst wins are still in short supply for the Bees they are starting to chalk up points.
"It is win or bust for us really. It's come to that stage of the season for us"
Matt Clarke on Quakers World
Clarke, who has been a regular in the Darlington backline for the past four seasons, says two wins in the next two games are needed simply to keep Quakers in contention and in with a shout of the play-offs. If Darlington are to achieve their skipper's aims they must record a very rare win at Underhill.
"I think last season we tended to loose to the lower teams, with respect to them. I think this season we've done a lot better," said Clarke. "We've got to make sure we get the three points. Nothing else will count for us. It is win or bust for us really. It's come to that stage of the season for us. We have to win the next two matches basically to stay in contention. We've got to win it."
Barring a major problem Matt Clarke's central defensive partnership with Shelton Martis will remain intact for this game. Since been plucked from obscurity and placed alongside Clarke in the heart of defence the pair have gone on to develop a solid partnership. It is one that Clarke is clearly hopeful of continuing but realises that there will be interest in his college after an excellent first season at the club.
"I enjoy playing with him," admitted Clarke. "I think he is an outstanding player and I just hope we can keep our hands on him. I think a lot of clubs will come in for him and if the right offer is there then I will wish him all the best. He is a great player and we have a great understanding together so we'd just like to continue with that for the rest of the season and what happens after that just happens."
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