Brian Talbot signed Duane Darby in the summer of 2000 from Notts County on a free transfer. Talbot was looking to strengthen his Nationwide Conference squad after narrowly missing out on promotion the previous season. Darby was seen as the perfect man to shoot Diamonds into the Football League.

Darby quickly became a fan favourite. His powerful attributes and lethal finishing took Rushden to the top of the Nationwide Conference. His partnership with Justin Jackson provided the Diamonds fans with some memorable moments in the 2000/2001 season, including a magnificent brace away at rivals Kettering Town. He finished top-scorer in 2001 with 27 goals and was named supporters player of the season.

Following Diamonds promotion to the Football League, Darby struggled to impose himself as he had done in the Conference. He continued to score goals and by the end of his Diamonds career had amassed 51 goals in 129 games for Rushden. After falling out of favour with Brian Talbot, Darby moved on to Shrewsbury Town for £15,000.He currently plays for Halesowen Town in the BGB Premier after a spell at Nuneaton Borough.

Although Darby enjoyed 3 years at Rushden, it is his debut season that will stick in the minds of fans for years to come. His attitude for the cause and his incredible goal-scoring record that season helped Diamonds achieve League status for the very first time.