You can always scuff it up a bit with a bit of light sanding say 240 or 320 to get it to take a bit better. I would only do this once though.
I usually apply the stain coats in a circular motion and work it into the wood, then wipe off in the direction of the grain.
the colour will deepen as it cures......patience......I have no doubt it will go darker.
Your making me want to get some DT black stump now!!!!