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Stockton’s fielded a much changed starting 11 in the Durham Cup 1st Round tie against Darlington RA of the ENL 2nd Division and they flew out of the blocks taking the lead inside the first minute when Jamie Owens powered home a header from Jimmy Wards ball into the box. It was all Stockton in the early stages and a landslide looked on the cards at one point as several chances came and went. On 18 minutes a great move by RA saw Wilson crash a shot against the bar and the Anchors break away and double their lead with a counter attack, Garbutt scoring after a fumble by the keeper. A superb move and exquisite chipped finish from Garbutt on 27 minutes and the Anchors looked home and dry at 3-0 at halftime. RA had other ideas, a neat finish by England gave them hope and when Griffiths saved Garbutts penalty on 58 mins they were in the game. Wilson made 3-2 with a superb 25 yard effort on 62 mins and with 6 mins left they tied it up when Joynes volleyed in a good cross from Harrison. FT Stockton Town 3 v 3 Darlington RA… Penalties…
Stockton’s players showed great technique by tucking away all 4 penalties and with Jordan saving RA’s first and 5th the Anchors went through 4-3 victory. Darlington deserve a lot of credit for keeping going and although the Anchors will be rueing missed chances, Darlington deserved their opportunity to win the tie because of their second half performance and extra time would have proved interesting.
