Second half goals from Jacob Gregory and Jordan Connerton and a fantastic all round performance from Phil Brown's side, especially by goalkeeper Mike Hale, saw City through to the 3rd Qualifying Round of the FA Cup.

The match was played for the majority of the game as 10 v 10, as Gary Brown and Jacob Davis were both sent off for adjudged last-man fouls in the first half.

Both sides had chances in the opening 45 minutes, with Mike Hale pulling off a fantastic save to deny Mark Beck from close range in the best chance for the visitors who also hit the crossbar.

Lancaster weren't without their fair share of chances either, with Louis Mayers flicking a gilt-edged chance wide unmarked, whilst Connerton had an effort from a goalmouth scramble cleared off the line.

After the interval it was City who drew first blood as Gregory collected Connerton's pass and rifled a shot with the outside of his boot into the roof of the net.

The duo then swapped their parts for the second and ultimately game winning goal, as Gregory played a great through ball to Connerton who rounded the keeper and stayed cool to calmly slot the ball into the unguarded net.

Darlington did pull a goal back after a spell of heavy pressure as Amar Purewal headed in after jumping highest to meet a superb cross from the right wing.

Mike Hale then produced a number of top class saves to keep City in the lead until the final whistle blew, sparking huge celebrations as Lancaster City took the £4,500 prize money and booked a spot in the 3rd Qualifying Round.