Alfreton Town slipped to defeat at the Impact Arena as Darlington claimed their first league win of the season, with three second half goals taking the game away from Billy Heath’s side.

Darlington saw more of the ball early on, forcing George Willis into a smart save on four minutes when Will McGowan’s low strike threatened to sneak in. Alfreton grew into the game, though, and began to carry their own threat.

From long throws and set pieces, the Reds pressed forward. A promising moment came on 28 minutes when Siya Ligendza broke into the box and appeared to be clipped by Ben Hedley, but despite strong appeals, no penalty was awarded. Soon after, Owen German latched onto another long throw but fired just over with a well struck half volley.

Willis was called into action again shortly before half-time, tipping over a dangerous Hatfield free-kick after bringing down Tom Allan outside the area, but the Reds stood firm and went into the break level at 0-0.

The key moment came seven minutes after the restart. Alfreton had just gone close through Ligendza, whose header from another Lund long throw was clawed away expertly by Darlington keeper Peter Jameson. Within minutes, the visitors went up the other end and grabbed the opener – McGowan’s run led to a loose ball falling for Hatfield to tuck away.

That goal swung momentum. Darlington doubled their advantage on 62 minutes when Cedric Main teed up Hedley, who bent a left-footed shot into the top corner for his first-ever league strike.

Eight minutes later, there was more controversy as Jameson in the Darlo net appeared to half catch, half parry an effort on goal, before sheepishly picking the ball up again. A matter of seconds later Hatfield volleyed in his second and Darlington’s third after Main’s effort was blocked, sealing the contest and leaving Alfreton incensed.

Willis pulled off further saves to prevent the scoreline from widening
, while Alfreton continued to battle, but by then the damage was done.

In truth it was a poor performance from the Reds who were perhaps fortunate the margin of defeat was not wider

That result leaves Alfreton heading into their third match without having secured a win. It’s South Shields up on Tuesday, who have managed to win both of their opening fixtures.

Alfreton Town: Willis, Perritt, Newhall, Lund, Hunt, Leckie, Cantrill, German (Derham 82’) Ligendza (Pennant 74’), Fewster, Dodoo (McDonagh 65’)

Unused Subs: Anson, Beresford, Solademi, Wright.

Attendance: 583