Darlington took a fortunate early lead when winger Richie Forlan's cross was volleyed home by Tommy Wright.

Bury's Nicky Adams was denied by keeper David Stockdale a minute later before Ian Miller converted a Clark Keltie corner for a 2-0 lead.

Glynn Hurst headed wide for Bury before Paul Mayo marked his Darlington debut with a goal from just inside the area.

Darlington: Stockdale, Austin, Foster, Miller, Mayo, Joachim, Keltie (Purdie 69), Ravenhill, Foran (Martin Smith 75), Wright (Blundell 68), Abbott.
Subs Not Used: Wiseman, Liversidge.

Booked: Keltie.

Goals: Wright 12, Miller 22, Mayo 58.

Bury: Provett, Futcher, Challinor, Haslam, Parrish (Yeo 53), Baker, Adams, Barry-Murphy, Woodthorpe (Buchanan 78), Bishop, Hurst.
Subs Not Used: Stephens, Anane, Rouse.

Booked: Futcher, Challinor.

Att: 3,003