Penney praises Poole contribution

David Poole began his career with Manchester United

Darlington manager Dave Penney has praised the impact of winger David Poole in the 2-1 Carling Cup win at Walsall on Tuesday night.

Poole, 23, was one of six permanent signings who arrived at the club in the summer and Penney was quick to pay tribute to the newcomer's efforts.

"Poole's getting better the longer he's been with us," he told BBC Tees.

"To every man they were fantastic, they passed it, they moved it and the two wide men were excellent."

The Quakers won their first round tie thanks to goals from defender Jason Kennedy and on-loan Ipswich Town striker Billy Clarke.

Clarke only joined his team-mates last Friday ahead of Saturday's draw with Exeter but Penney believes the Irish under-21 star has made an immediate impact.

"Billy Clarke you can see is class," said Penney. "He's got a great touch and drops into holes defenders don't want to go into.

"The goal he scored, the initial shot was blocked but he coolly finished the second chance."