By Martin Walker
Craig Liddle admits it’s an uncertain time for Darlington, and everyone connected to the club.
The Quakers won their first game since 17th December on Saturday, stuffing bottom club Kettering Town 3-1 at the Northern Echo Arena, on the final day of a forgetful season.
The result couldn’t stop Darlo’s drop to the Blue Square Conference North division – they were officially relegated two weeks ago – but it restored some pride for the beleaguered club.
Caretaker boss Liddle says Saturday’s emotional game was a farewell for many people.
“Nobody knows where the football club’s going to be,” he said.
“I don’t think anyone can say for definite if they’re going to be here next season, so it was a farewell for a lot of people and the send-off was what we expected, and the boys certainly deserved it.
“The win was a long time in coming. I couldn’t see where it was coming from because nothing seemed to be going our way. I’m chuffed to bits for the boys in the dressing room, because they deserve it.
“It’s an uncertain time, for me included. If the 1883 group can get a hold of it I’m prepared to sit down with them and see what’s going to be best for the club going forward, but there has to come a time when I have to look after myself.
“I’ve put an awful lot of effort into the club. I stayed loyal as a player when I had chances to leave and I’ve stuck this out when I’ve again had opportunities to move on.
“I’ve got a lot of thinking to do. But if I was to leave, it would be with a heavy heart.”
Liddle added: “A lot seems to be resting on the former chairman, and if he isn’t willing to relinquish the grip he has on the club then I can’t see any way out.
“The answer could possibly be a phoenix club, which would mean dropping down a couple of divisions, which would make full-time status virtually impossible.
“It’s out of most people’s control, but it isn’t for the want of trying. The 1883 group have put an awful lot of work and effort into it, and it would be disastrous for them and the supporters to fold or drop even further down the leagues.
“A lot of people are looking at the benefits of re-forming, having no debts so nobody would have a stronghold over the club, so I can see where they’re coming from with that.
“But, for me, it would be disappointing if the history and everything connected with Darlington Football Club just ceased to exist, so it wouldn’t be my choice.”
