Football: Kennedy sparks superb Darlo win

PETERBOROUGH 0

DARLINGTON 2

JASON KENNEDY'S early strike set Darlington on their way to lining up a play-off semi-final clash with Rochdale.

Following the midfielder's effort, promoted Posh had the better of the chances, but they were repeatedly denied by sub goalkeeper Przemyslaw Kazimierczak.

Michael Cummins then slotted home shortly after the break to ensure the Quakers took the three points, which sees them finish in sixth place.

Darlo boss Dave Penney said: "There is no way we were going to be lambs to the slaughter.

"We set out to spoil the party and we managed to do it. This result gives us great momentum for the play-offs."

Darlington got off to an ideal start when Ricky Ravenhill set-up Kennedy to slot home from close range in the third minute. Aaron McLean and Adam Newton attempted to hit back with quick-fire efforts for Posh, but Darlington keeper David Stockdale was on hand to deny them both.

Stockdale was then forced off due to injury in the 12th minute, leaving Kazimierczak to fill in between the sticks.

He was soon called into action when George Boyd fired an effort on target from the edge of the area, but the Pole saved well.

Chris Whelpdale and Craig Mackail-Smith were both denied by the sub stopper before the Quakers doubled their lead when Craig Nelthorpe played in Cummins to find the net from 12 yards.

Posh manager Darren Ferguson admitted: "It was just one game too many at the end of a long season."

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