Justin Donawa and his Darlington team-mates advanced in the Buildbase FA Trophy after edging Solihull Moors 1-0 in a first-round replay at Blackwell Meadows today.

Omar Holness’ 74th minute strike proved to be the difference in a physical contest to finally see off National League promotion hopefuls Solihull and send Alun Armstrong’s team through to the next round where they will host Harrogate Town on Saturday.

Jack Lambert grabbed a late equaliser to earn Darlington a replay after last month’s initial FA Trophy first round cup tie between the two sides ended 2-2 at Damson Parkway.

Donawa secured a deal with Darlington last summer and has gone from strength to strength since as he is the club’s second leading scorer this term with eight goals.

“It’s going really well and I’m glad I’ve been able to impact the games so far,” the 23-year-old winger told The Northern Echo in the lead up to the cup replay.

“I try to utilise my speed as much as possible I try to use that to the best of my ability to create chances.

“The football aspect is a lot more physical; I found that out from day one. I’m not the biggest guy, but you have to hold your own.”

Donawa has been named in Armstrong’s starting line-up for the past four fixtures.

“You want to be in the starting XI, but I know that when called upon whether that is in the starting XI or off the bench I have a job to do,” he added. “That means to have an impact, to score goals, to help the offensively and defensively so I always stay ready.

“I’m glad to be starting again and getting more minutes and it’s proving to be a good little spell for me, but I’m ready for whatever the gaffer has in store for me.”

Darlington are seventh in the Vanarama National League North, a point off the play-offs, after winning five of their last six league games, with Donawa scoring in three of them.

“The gaffer and the lads are pleased with how we’ve climbed the table in recent weeks,” the Bermuda forward added. “We want to keep doing that and get into those play-off positions.”