MICHAEL Stringfellow hopes his Kendal Town side will use momentum gained from Saturday's toppling of Darlington 1883 in the season run-in.

Hundreds of Darlington fans made the trip across the country with the expectation of an easy three points as they make a bid for automatic promotion.

But Kendal had other ideas and were three-nil up after 15 minutes thanks to a Jordan Connerton treble. Connerton has now notched 21 goals this season - despite only making his debut in October - and is the league's third most prolific hitman.

The Mintcakes survived a second-half storm to stop a run of three straight defeats and pick up a memorable win over the big-spenders.

"We started really well and it gave us a chance against a very good side," said Stringfellow. "We have had quite a few games recently where we have not started until 20 minutes into the game and it's tough then because it's always an uphill battle but I thought we looked up for the game, were quick, and caused them all sorts of problems early on.

"Darlington are top of the league for a reason. I knew they would score at some point but it was very pleasing that we didn't crumble, showed great character and managed the game well.

"We need to take this mentality into the next few games and pick up more points to be more consistent and push up that league table."

Byron Andrews hit a stunning fourth goal for Kendal, who host Clitheroe this weekend, moments after Darlington drew the score to 3-2 and Stringfellow was delighted for his midfield dynamo.

"He really deserved it," said Stringfellow. "He has come in from the West Lancs league and has been a bit inconsistent but he was outstanding. Sometimes he lacks a bit of confidence but hopefully that goal will do him the world of good going forward."

And youngster George Mason, as well as stand-in keeper Alexander Cameron, also impressed.

"George is an intelligent lad but also defensively he is great," he said. "At times he was up against probably one of the best wingers in the league and defended superbly but also managed to get forward and join in with Jordan.

"I must have rang every club in the north west on Friday trying to find a goalkeeper. Liam (Bleeker) has been struggling with a dead leg. At 5pm we didn't have a keeper but the hard work between me, Swanny (assistant Iain Swan) and our secretary Craig Campbell paid off and we got the rewards. He pulled off some great saves, came for crosses and took the pressure of us so he is someone who I hope will stay in contact with us."