Darlington manager David Hodgson is to step up his search for a striker after seeing his side dominate the game but crash to a 1-0 home defeat against Bristol Rovers.
The Pirates of Bristol plundered all three points thanks to a soft goal from striker Junior Agogo midway through the second half.
Bristol made the long journey north worthwhile but they appeared tired at times and conceded plenty of possession to the home side who failed to take advantage.
The visitors began the game brightly and both Agogo and fellow striker Jamie Forrester caused Darlington problems in the opening 10 minutes of the game. But from then on Darlington dominated but, without a striker of the calibre of the departed Barry Conlon, they failed to take their many chances.
The Bristol defence were tormented by winger Neil Wainwright throughout the game and the former Sunderland man must wonder how, despite many crosses from the right, his side failed to score in the 90 minutes.
In fact Darlington's one and only shot on target came in the 78th minute when Craig Russell found the space inside the area to send in a low drive that was easily held by Rovers keeper Kevin Miller.
The visitors were not much better, although they did manage two efforts on target.
And it was in the 77th minute when Agogo sent in a left-foot shot that lacked power, but somehow bobbled beyond the outstretched arm of Sam Russell.
Ten minutes from time Darlington felt that they should have had a penalty when a goal bound shot from defender Jonathan Hutchinson appeared to strike an arm. The referee was unimpressed though and allowed the game to continue.