GREAT Harwood tamely surrendered this Lancashire derby as the Anchormen left the Showground with all three points.
The form guide suggested that John Hughes' side might struggle with Darwen unbeaten in eight games and Town gave themselves a mountain to climb when goalkeeper Bobby Harris fumbled a harmless-looking Dennis Hill free-kick to gift the visitors an eighth-minute opener.
Chris Heslop had a number of chances and Town looked to have a shout for handball when one of his efforts was deflected onto the bar.
But on 57 minutes it was a former Harwood Town favourite, Paul Baker, who doubled the lead, heading home from Lee Webb's centre.
Debutant striker Paul Mashiter had a couple of close calls attempting to reduce the deficit.
But Darwen finished the stronger although Hill was denied his second by a Harris penalty save.
He made amends for his error in injury time though, converting a Denny Khan cross to make the final score 3-0. Harwood are away at Leek CSOB tomorrow (K/O 3pm).
