Stockton Town were beaten by a strong Darlington side on Tuesday.
Josh Scott’s first-half goal nullified Mark Beck’s opener, but Beck was on hand again – and helped by a goal from Dylan Stephenson to give the visitors the win.
Jayden Pinnegar started the game for Stockton, and Tom Coulthard returned to make his first appearance of pre-season.
Stockton started the better side until Darlo’s goal, where Mark Beck forced home a corner, looking questionably offside.
Josh Scott began to cause problems for the Darlington defence, and met an Owen Gallacher cross but could only head wide.
Scott, however, did find the target when Jake Petitjean’s deep ball was played back across goal by Tom Coulthard, allowing the striker to poke home at the back post.
Michael Dunwell’s side remained on top, but couldn’t find a second goal before the break.
Half-time: Stockton Town 1-1 Darlington
Jayden Pinnegar had a good chance for the Anchors shortly after the interval, but he dragged his shot wide after a good through ball picked him out.
But in the 52nd minute, Mark Beck rose highest inside the box to place a header past Nathan Harker and restore Darlington’s advantage.
Harker was strong a few minutes later to stop a low effort by veteran Paddy McLoughlin.
Paul Rooney and Frank Nouble both had opportunities to level it for Stockton, but neither could beat the Darlington goalkeeper.
The game was sealed in the 88th minute when an outstanding cross by Aidan Rutledge was met by a thunderous volley from Dylan Stephenson, and despite Josh Scott’s late opportunity, the game finished 3-1.
Full-time: Stockton Town 3-1 Darlington
