'Most improved' striker from Staindrop signs two-year deal with Darlington FC

A TEENAGE striker who almost gave up the game has signed a two year deal with Darlington FC.
Staindrop’s Harvey Saunders made his mark on the Quakers’ promotion push with two late goals at the back end of this season.
The pacy forward fought back from two injuries to force his way into the first team squad and was rewarded with a two year deal last week. The 19-year-old was “over the moon” with his new contract.
He added: “At the start of the season I was constantly injured – as soon as I got the call up, the lads looked after me.
“It’s a great start for me. Getting contracts at this time of year can be a bit nerve wracking but that was a great feeling.”
The Teesdale teenager came off the bench 11 times for the National League North outfit last season after spells at Dunston and Ryhope to recuperate from injury.
He scored an added time equaliser in the side’s 2-2 draw with Worcester City.
But his initial pathway into the top-end of non-league football wasn’t straightforward.
Mr Saunders almost drifted out of the game but came back through five-a-side tournaments while he was working at Spice Island, in Barnard Castle.
The former Staindrop Academy pupil went on to cut his teeth in the Northern League before being picked up by Darlington.
His persistence was rewarded last week when he was named the club’s Most Improved Player for 2016/17.
“My improvement is down to the coaching staff – I could not have done it without them,” he added.
“The players around at that level mean you cannot switch off or make mistakes.”
Mr Saunders also paid tribute to the senior heads in the squad who had offered him little nuggets of advice.
He said: “They really do help you – I ask the defenders what would be their worst nightmare to be up against.
“The step up from the Northern League to Conference North has been massive. To get game time and know I have improved has been incredible.”
With footballing eyes now turning to summer pre-season, Mr Saunders said he was looking forward to an injury free spell and fighting for a regular first team spot.
He added: “I don’t want to look too far ahead – I just want game time. I love the club and stepping out in front of all our fans is just incredible.”