Michael Ricketts endured a rollercoaster night as Walsall crashed out of the Carling Cup 2-1 against Darlington.
Quakers claim League One scalp
Michael Ricketts endured a rollercoaster night as Walsall crashed out of the Carling Cup 2-1 against Darlington.
The Saddlers striker scored and was later sent off for violent conduct as his fell short against League Two opponents.
The former England international appeared to elbow Darlington midfielder Ricky Ravenhill in the face in the 39th minute after the pair had been niggling at each other, and referee Darren Drysdale immediately produced a red card.
Walsall had taken a 10th-minute lead when the unmarked Ricketts stooped to head Chris Palmer's free-kick in from close range.
But the Quakers had already shown they could play as wingers David Poole and Adam Griffin were causing plenty of trouble with their trickery.
In the 31st minute a run by Poole ended with Jason Kennedy rifling a left-foot shot high into the net for the equaliser.
The impressive Billy Clarke took advantage of more good work by Poole to win the match. From the winger's pass he had one shot blocked but was first to the rebound, which he smashed past Clayton Ince.
