It has been a long and arduous season for Darlington's youth team - and it's only at the half way stage! Speaking earlier this week Neil Maddison explained how he has endured horrendous injury problems at youth team level this season.

It had made for a patchwork set of results and whilst the league table is never too important at this level Maddison admits there have been plenty of frustrations since the campaign kicked off in August.

Quakers have been forced to field school boys and first year scholars in their games so far this season whilst many of the second years, those hoping to earn professional contracts, have been sidelined. Despite the problems the youngsters who have been flung in are getting experience and at any level that is vital.

"It has been a difficult one with the injuries we have had so far. I am not making excuses but it has been absolutely ridiculous what we have had to go through. Especially with the second years. The first years need them to help bring them on and we've had about 90% of our second years out of action. Some have long term issues and others have niggling problems," said Maddison.

"It effects their development and it is a crucial stage for them. Results don't really mater at this stage. It is all about getting experience and the players trying to better themselves. Although I would like the results to be better we are in a comfortable enough position in the league and we are improving. Some of the first years are getting stronger as they've had to take on some of the responsibility of the second years. Some of them have come through it brilliantly. That bodes well for the future."

"The sixteen year olds I have been so impressed with. I think I have played about six or seven of them so far and not one of them has let me down. Some of them could step straight into the side - that is how good they are," he continued. "The main problem is preparing for games. We simply have not had the bodies to go through things. The kids are at school and they can only come in on a Saturday. Its been difficult but I've taken it on board and I am quietly confident for the next part of the season."