Darlington 1 Cheltenham Town 1

Aug 30 2009 by Stuart Jamieson, Sunday Sun

KEVIN GALL lifted the gloom that had descended over Darlington with a timely goal.

He pounced with a clinical low drive from 15 yards on 70 minutes to earn the side their first point of the season and first goal since opening day.

There were fewer than 2000 fans in the ground but the roar of relief when the ball went in was worthy of three times that number.

Manager Colin Todd said: “Kevin took the goal really well and we need more of that. We can play better than that – and with more composure – but it’s a start and something to build on.

“There has been massive pressure on the players because they were the only ones in the country without a point.

“But now they are up and running and you could see the relief.

“Full credit to our supporters. They have been brilliant and we have to give them something to boost them.”

Gall, making his first start since arriving at the club, was prominent from the start, latching onto a Dean Windass’ pass in the opening minute to send in a dangerous cross. On loan Nathan Porritt was not far off target with a couple of long range drives, as Darlington made a determined bid to take a lead for the first time this season.