Neither side made much impression in the first half - both failing to convert penalty corners as well as giving the ball away far too often.

The second half followed a similar pattern and the game looked to be heading for a 0-0 draw until Durham snatched a late winner five minutes from time.

To add to Doncaster's woes, both Greg Vickers, who could be out for some time, and Richard Thomas picked up injuries.

Doncaster entertain Barford Tigers at home this weekend and, depending on other results, could go into the long Christmas break in second place were they to win.

The team returned to winning ways the following day when entertaining Maidstone in the EHA Cup.

Due to the unavailability of key players from the usual starting eleven, several youngsters were given the opportunity to step up from the second team.

During the first half it seemed that it would to be a similar story to the Durham game as Maidstone went 1-0 up and then defended their goal exceptionally well .

Despite the loss of Pete Bartlett - forced to leave the field with a back injury - Doncaster continually pushed toward after the break, but failed to convert several penalty corners.

Just when it looked as though Doncaster were on their way out Simon Finnigan put the ball into the net in the dying seconds of normal time following a skilful move from Colin Edwards and Joe Morrison.

Doncaster scored the all-important 'golden goal' in the second period when Jonathan Redfern was able to find the net to book his side's place in the quarter-finals on March 7.

What do you think? Add your comments below.

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