WHAT a difference a week can make!

First off there was the very strange atmosphere in the crowd leaving the Fraser Eagle Stadium on Tuesday. Yes, it was true we had been beaten by a Championship side but we just could not believe it.

The Leicester goal had been under siege for most of the second half and King Arthur had most definitely the quieter game of the two shot-stoppers.

Apart from the opening spell of the game, the back four looked solid all night and Mark Roberts stood out as a quality purchase by John Coleman.

The attack of the crispmen' was broken down time and time again with all four Stanley defenders making crucial interceptions.

Then came Saturday. With expectations raised, the Stanley faithful turned up at the FES with a spring in their step.

The opening signs were good for Stanley with the Reds bossing the first 15 minutes of the game with some good football.

Then last week's hero Kenny Arthur failed to come for a cross in his six-yard box and the visitors took an undeserved lead.

The game never really got into top gear and, despite Stanley dominating midfield with Andy Procter and especially Jay Harris on top form, the Reds' attack failed to beat Stockdale in the Darlington net.

Then on the way home in the car, the week took another twist with Coleman telling Radio Lancashire that Chris McGrail of Preston looked likely to be on his way to the FES on a six-month loan.

Chris looked a cracking striker during his brief spell with us last year and now he has finished his YTS there should be no bother with the paperwork!

This season will have its fair share of ups and downs and I am sure that, as per usual, life will never be dull if you are a Stanley fan.