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01/08/00 - Hartlepool United 0 Barnsley 0
Pool managed to field a relatively strong team despite press reports of a lengthy injury list. Chris Turner used Pools final home pre-season friendly to take another look at triallist Tim Sperrevik and try different formations before the action is for real. Barnsley arrived at the Vic fielding a strong team and on the back of a 0-0 draw with Rotherham on Saturday. Pool were dealt an early blow when midfielder Paul Arnison pulled up during the warm up and had to be helped off the field by two of his teammates. Arnison did not make it out for the game and was replaced by Gary Strodder. Young left back Robinson kept his place in the Pool team and is gaining in convidence each game he plays. A problem position over the past two years, seems to have been solved by the promotion of a player from the Pool youth ranks. If only Chris Turner could find two or three more youth team players who are ready to make the step upto the first 11.

During the first half Pool played towards the approx. 100 visiting Barnsley fans. Fana Triallist Tim Sperrevik looked desperate to impress boss Chris Turner and used his pace and power in attempting to cause problems in and around the Tykes box. Sperrevik certainly looks the part, but it is difficult to judge a player on a couple of friendly appearances in a team he only met a fortnight ago, Chris Turner knows he most make a quick decision on Sperrevik or move onto his next target. Robinson had the best chance for Pool during the first half as he drove a shot straight at the visiting keeper from some 35 yards out. Anthony Williams saved Pool on two occasions with excellent saves from the Barnsley forward line. HT: Pool 0 Barnsley 0.

As the sun dropped down behind the Millhouse stand Pool looked to up the tempo and get their pre-season campaign back on track. Tommy Miller and Paul Stephenson were instigating most of Pools attacks with Lee Fitzpatrick aiding and abetting whenever possible. On the hour mark the substitutions began. Chris Turner brought off Sperrevik and introduced Andy McAvoy. A formation switch to 4-3-3 from the usual 5-3-2 followed as Turner tried to solve Pools obvious lack of goals. In the 75th minute Craig Midgley replaced the excellent Ferguson and shortly after Thomas Tennebo replaced Tommy Miller. In the 80th minute more good work from the lively Craig Midgely resulted in the former Bradford striker having his legs taken just inside the Barnsley box. Paul Stephenson stepped up to take the kick, but the Tykes keeper guessed correct and saved Stepho's kick. Turner then replaced Lee Fitzpatrick with another triallist, this time Middlesbrough striker Tom Jones. Barnsley's shooting was high and wide for most of the second half and Pool looked comfortable for most of the game. Both teams look in need of more fire power with the new season less then two weeks away. FT: Pool 0 Barnsley 0.

Pool team: Williams, Knowles, Strodder, Ferguson (Midgley 75) Westwood, Robinson, Stephenson, Miller (Tennebo 77), Fitzpatrick (Jones 85), Sperrevik (McAvoy 57), Henderson. Attendance: 1150. Bookings: none. Pools finally pre-season game is away to Colin West's last port of call, Northwich Victoria this Saturday. The break should enable a few more of the walking wounded to put themselves back in contention. Another useful workout for Pool, but Chris Turner needs to seriously evalute the strengthen and deepth of his team as the 'serious' injury list show's no signs of improvement.

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01/08/00 - Pool struggling with massive injury list
Read this and be worried, Pool have TEN players on the treatment table with the new season approaching at an alarming rate. Saturday's defeat at Berwick resulted in Paul Stephenson (heel), Craig Midgley (hamstring) and Paul Arnison (calf) joining the walking wounded of Micky Barron (booked into see a specialist this week about a knee problem), Graeme Lee (already had exploritory op on a knee problem) and Ian Clark, Tommy Miller, Sam Shilton and Martin Hollund who all have slight knocks but should be fittish for the start of the season. Pool boss Chris Turner has yet to field a full strength squad during the pre-season campaign. Norwegian triallist Tim Serrevik played his second game on trial and looks set to be offered a contract to be the long awaited 'target man' that Pool have craved for over the past two seasons. Loan signing Barry Ferguson who has joined Pool from Coventry to ease the defensive nightmare Chris Turner faces, played his first game and made a good impression on the travelling Pools fans. Next up is Barnsley at Victoria Park this evening (Tuesday 1st August). That's if Pool can scrap 11 fit players together of course.

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31/7/00 - Berwick Rangers 2 Hartlepool United 1
ITN couldn't make it to Berwick (weekend in Leeds!) for Pools defense of the Tweedmouth Trophy. So instead of rehashing anybody elses report (never done that before, not about to start!!) we've promoted Chris Hull to staff writer. Thanks Chris.

Was not impressed with the ground, and it's a long way from the station. Nice town but the Barnet style ground is in the newer part of town the other side of the Tweed. And like Barnet, a pronounced slope on the pitch, downhill from south to north. Not much to say about first half. Pools kicked off playing uphill. The biggest bloke on the pitch was the ref at about 6ft5. Sperrevik not much shorter, and he got stuck in early, as did Henderson. But the ref was dead niggly and blew for everything. Most decisions went their way. A half of few chances, mostly to Berwick. Stephenson tried hard and played the ball around a lot. But a lot of our passes were going astray. Sperrevik looked OK, but probably not used to our high game, and not many balls went to his feet. He has a slight resemblance I think to a younger Turner. The young central defender Ferguson on loan from Coventry is tall and skinny with a pinhead, and looked solid. Midgeley, who early on showed some good touches, went quiet and was replaced by McAvoy on 35 minutes. He was limping around later, so we can assume his name is added to the lengthening crocked list. Henderson had our best chance on 45 minutes when put through, but instead of squaring it for Sperrevik to tap in he shot straight at the goalie, who saved easily.

The second half was a different ball game. Pools were playing downhill towards Scotland. After an early bit of pressure a long cross from a lively Robinson on 50 minutes was just missed by a stretching Henderson, and the ref adjudged that he'd been pushed - I think. Nobody appealed and Berwick were none too happy, but Stepho stepped up and buried it. I think Arnison wanted to take it but Stepho had grabbed the ball first. Pools were well on top during the early stages and had several chances to extend their lead. Henderson had two excellent point blank chances with head and feet but hit the goalie with both. Robinson had one as well, and Turner was seen jumping around on the bench with his head in his hands. McAvoy made a few excellent runs down the right, as did Robinson on the left. Stepho was still playing well. Sperrevik wasn't in the game much, and is definitely not the 20 plus goal a season forward we so desperately need. I'd take him on a further loan if we can. If I was charitable I'd say Knowles was having an average game. But the truth is that he's come back from the break slower than ever, and was running around like a schoolboy making his debut, not sure what position he was playing in. Berwick meanwhile weren't creating much going uphill.

Then we started bringing on the subs on about 75 minutes. First on came Boyd and West for Sperrevik and Henderson. A few poolies close to me questioned the wisdom of bringing on West, wearing the biggest pair of shorts you've ever seen in your life - size XXXXXL. I tend to agree with them - or are we warming him up for the Auto Windscreen games already? On about 80 minutes Berwick got a free kick just outside the left corner of the box. A bunch of players rose and a Berwick player got his head there first. Williams made a good save but Berwick followed up quickly to level the score. Then within 5 minutes the on-loan Ferguson was penalised for pulling down one of their players running along the inside edge of the box. Penalty awarded, and after ours earlier we couldn't complain too much. Easily converted and 2-1 to them. We didn't look like equalising, especially with the geriatric West up front. So, early by my watch, the ref blew up and Berwick lifted the Tweedmouth Trophy.

Not a bad performance from Pools. I was again impressed by the young Robinson. The on loan Ferguson looks pretty solid. Westwood also had a solid game. But there were too many of our regular players missing to read too much into this friendly. What is of concern though is the high number of sitters we are missing. We obviously cannot afford to carry this trend into the new season. For a town that by appearance might do a good fish n'chips I was disappointed with the two establishments I visited. Over-fried and oily was my experience in two chippies in Berwick. (Juniors lost 3-1 earlier on)

1. Williams 2. Robinson 3. Knowles 4. Arnison 5. Ferguson 6. Westwood 7. Stephenson 8. Midgeley 9. Sperrevik 10. Henderson 11. Tennebo. Subs included; West, Boyd, McAvoy. Present but not on bench; Shilton, Miller, Holland, Lee, Clarke, the youth team and Billy Horner. Attendance 250-300 (about 60 poolies) Weather, dry & overcast with sunny spells

Chris Hull

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20/07/00 - Voss 2 Pool 2
Pool completed their second game of the pre-season tour of Norway and came away with another draw. A result which left boss Chris Turner both annoyed and disappointed in his team. Pool raced into a two goal lead. The first coming on 15 minutes, Kevin Henderson volleyed home a right wing cross from Darren Knowles. The second came just 2 minutes later as Craig Midgley saw his shot saved by Veka in the Voss goal, Henderson reacted quickly to pick up the pieces and take his pre-season tally to 3 goals. After this second goal Pool should have taken full control of the game and gone on to complete a comfortable victory. However it was not to be. 12 minutes from the half time break Voss pulled a goal back, midfielder Knut Lydvo's right footed free kick struck the Pool wall and flew past Pool keeper Anthony Williams. HT: Voss 1 Pool 2.

In the second half Voss pulled level after 73 minutes. Boge saw his first shot blocked by Williams, but he was able to reach the rebound and complete the Voss come back. Pool had a total of 23 efforts at goal, but could not come up with another goal to see off their part time opponents. FT: Voss 2 Pool 2.

Pool team: Williams, Strodder, Barron, Westwood, Knowles, McAvoy, Arnison, Shilton, Robinson (Fitzpatrick 85), Midgley, Henderson. Subs not used: Hollund, Tennebo. Att. approx. 1000. Bookings: none.

After the game Pool boss Chris Turner was not a happy bunny. Turner speaking to the Hartlepool Mail said "At 2-0 up it looked like we had them. But we took our foot of the pedal and once you take it off, it's hard to pick it up again, whoever you are playing against. Voss handled us very well, but we should have won the game. It was not acceptable, the players know the standards because they set them and they fell below them. I expect a good response against Fana. In a way I'm glad because it has given me the opportunity to give them a blast. All I ask is that the players come off the field at the end knowing they have given everything to get a result". Hopefully Turner's reaction will have hammered home the fact the Pool cannot just turn up and expect to win games. Even though their opposition is of a less quality. We did it to Aberdeen, Voss nearly did it to us. Next stop Fana.

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19/07/00 - Jonah leaves the Vic
Pool striker Gary Jones move to third division Rivals Halifax Town has finally been completed. After weeks of uncertainty Halifax manager Mark Lillis finally got his man. Chris Turner has now released both Chris Freestone and Gary Jones on free transfers.

Jones has had numerous meetings with the Shaymen's manager and chairmen and looked likely to leave Pool before Chris Turner's men left for the pre-season tour of Norway. However the deal fell through at the last moment when Jones could not contact his agent who had represented him at a finally contract meeting. Jones prepared for the pre-season tour with Pool, but was called only hours before the team were due to meet by Chris Turner. Turner had been contacted by Halifax again and this time the deal was pushed through and Jones completed his move away from Victoria Park.

The former Notts County golden boot winner never really got into his stride at Pool. Although Jones's alround game has been excellent, he has failed to repeat his goalscoring form which saw him hit the net 28 times for championship winning County. Jones joins Pool's other expensive departure Chris Freestone in making way for new blood in the Pool attack.

Jones said "I was about to set off for the game on saturday when Chris Turner phoned me to say that it looked likely that I would be going to Halifax so not to bother coming to the game. I had resigned myself to staying at Hartlepool and was all set for the trip to Norway until I got that call on Saturday morning. I have spoken to their chairman and he has offered me a better deal. I am just looked forward to getting things sorted at last.

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19/07/00 - Brann Bergen 0 Hartlepool United 0
With strikers leaving left right and centre, Pool boss Chris Turner was left a little short up front for the game with Brann Bergen. Kevin Henderson was ruled out of the game with a slight injury, so Adam Boyd partnered Craig Midgley in attack. So it should come as no surprise that Pool failed to score. But on a brighter note, Brann failed to score as well! Pool keeper Martin Hollund was handed the captains armband as he faced his former team for the first time since he left Brann back in 1998. Turner played a 3-5-2 formation with Sam Shilton putting in a promising display out on the left wing. In the first half Tommy Miller went close with a long range drive and Gary Strodder came close to his second pre-season goal as he divided to meet a Lee Fitzpatrick cross. In the 26th minute Craig Midgley had the ball in the back of the net, but the linesman raised his flag for offside.

In the second half Paul Stephenson entered the game and injected some craft in the middle of the park for Pool. Both Hollund and his second half replacement Anthony Williams had to be on their toes to keep Brann out. In the 64th minute Williams produced a superb save to deny Sindre Maroy and eight minutes later Darren Knowles made a vital interception as Kent Louis Joseph lined himself up for a clear shot on goal. Towards the end of the game Williams was called into duty again as he parried a powerful shot from Oddvar Johnannesen. In the 88th minute Brann youth team player Kjetil Norland hit the outside of the post with Williams beaten.

After the game Pool boss Chris Turner said "We should have had a penalty when Craig Midgley was fouled three yards inside the box but the referee gave a free kick, instead. It wasn’t a very good game, pretty uninspiring in fact with few chances - totally different to last Saturday’s when we beat Aberdeen 4-3 - but it was a good workout and that’s what pre-season matches are all about. The aim is to build up fitness levels and steer clear of injuries as far as possible. The bad thing about last night was that we picked up a couple of knocks.”

Pool team: Hollund (Williams 45), Strodder, Barron, Westwood, Arnison (Knowles 40), Miller, Fitzpatrick (Stephenson 45), Tennebo, Shilton (Robinson 81), Boyd (McAvoy 62), Midgley (Canavan 62). Attendance: approx. 2000. Bookings: none.

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15/07/00 - Hartlepool United 4 Aberdeen 3
Pool kicked off their pre-season with a thrilling four goals to three win over Scottish Premier Division side Aberdeen. Unfortunately the game was marred after just 15 minutes when fighting broke out in the Cyril Knowles/Town End corner of the ground. It appears that Aberdeen fans had gained access to the home area of the ground and it wasn't long before both sets of fans decided to interactive with each other. As the stewards struggled to stop the outbreak of fighting, about a dozen Aberdeen fans left the away stand and started walking down the touchline to join in. Eventually the police turned up and with the help of the few stewards who had any idea of what to do order was returned to the ground. Quite a few of the Aberdeen fans had been drinking in the Corner Flag for a couple of hours before the game kicked off, the combination of alcohol, arch rivalry between English and Scottish fans, a lack of segregation caused problems in what should have been a low key pre-season warm up.

Anyway, onto the game. Pool lined up with a strong team as Chris Turner knew the task in hand would not be easy. In came youngster Robinson at left back, allowing Ian Clark to play a move attacking left midfield role. Aberdeen already had two pre-season games under their belts but allowed Pool to dominate the early play, with the home side passing the ball around sweetly on the lush green pitch of Victoria Park. However in the 31st minute the Dons took the lead when Eion Jess fired home from 25 yards giving Martin Hollund little chance. The visiting team had look comfortable on the ball but had showed little in attack until now. The second goal for the visitors arrived on 35 minutes when Arild Stavrum completed a neat one two move with a 20 yard shot, again giving Martin Hollund little chance of making a save. Two minutes later and Pool pulled a goal back. A right wing corner found its way out to Paul Stephenson on the edge of the box. Stevo's shot rattled the crossbar and Craig Midgley was on hand to tap home the rebound. HT: Pool 1 Dons 2.

As expected it was substitutions galore during the break. Pool brought on Williams for Hollund, Strodder for Westwood, Arnison for Knowles, Boyd for McAvoy, Fitzpatrick for Miller and Tennebo for Stephenson. Pool pulled level in the 51st minute with a great goal. A right wing cross from Lee Fitzpatrick was met by Kevin Henderson who had pulled away from his marker and planted a firm header past David Preece. In the 56th minute Aberdeen retook the lead when Thomas Solberg coolly finished in front of the travelling band of 300/400. On 70 minutes Kevin Henderson was replaced with trialist Michael Canavan who stepped straight into the forward line. On 75 minutes Gary Strodder scored the goal of the game. The big centre half curled a shot into the top corner of Preece's net from the edge of the box. A fluke or piece of outstanding skill? you call!! Pool were now in full flow and looking for the winning goal, and it came. In the 86th minute Craig Midgley collected his second goal of the match with a neat strikers finished from the 6 yard line. FT: Pool 4 Dons 3.

A good work out for both teams, but Pool come out with much more credit. Aberdeen have already completed two pre-season games and should really have no problem in beating Pool. However Chris Turner's team did finish 7th last year and are out to impress the manager as the new season approaches. Aberdeen looked weak at the back and on all but a few occasions lacking ideas in attack. Two players that did stand out for the visitors were Moroccan Hicham Zerouali who showed some nice touches and his centre forward partner the long haired Arild Stavrum who looked like he could do well for the Dons. For Pool it was much of the same, a first half injury to Ian Clark meant he could not continue, which is a bit of a worry. Sam Shilton only lasted 20 minutes as a sub before being replaced and missing from the team were Gary Jones and Graeme Lee, who at present both look likely to stay at the Vic. To Norway then.....

Pool team: Hollund (Williams 45), Knowles (Arnison 45), Westwood (Strodder 45), Barron, Robinson (Knowles 65), McAvoy (Boyd 45), Stephenson (Tennebo 45), Miller (Fitzpatrick 45), Clark (Shilton 43, (Westwood 58)), Midgley, Henderson (Canavan 70). Attendance: approx. 1400. Bookings: none.

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09/07/00 - International Match NOT at the Vic
Well it would have been nice if I had invented that story, but I'm too honest to take credit for something I didn't do. The story came about after I read 'The Look' the Saturday supplement that comes with the Mirror newspaper. 'The Sporting Week' written by Andy Fraser has 'Thailand v Brazil, schoolboy international live from Hartlepool's Victoria Park.' This is NOT correct, there is a little bit of truth in the story. Club press officer Paul Mullen today said that Pool had been approached to stage this game approx. one year ago, but when they were given a date the club had to turn down the invitation. The pitch should be in the middle of major reconstruction work, but reaching the play off's meant there was not enough time to complete this work, and it has had to be postponed for another season. Still with me? so there would have been an international at the Vic, but there isn't! Looks like we'll have to wait until Saturday when Pools take on Aberdeen.

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08/07/00 - International Action at the Vic
Hartlepool United's Victoria Park will play host to Brazil on Thursday night (13/7/00). Pool's ground has been chosen to host the second match of a triangular schoolboy international tournament. Sky Sports 2 will screen live action of Thailand versus Brazil game, starting at 7pm. Tuesday night will see the first game of the serious as England taken on Thailand at York City's home, Bootham Cresent. At present no details are available on ticket prices or which of the four stands will be open for the game. This match gives the North East's football starved fans an early chance to see competitive football and hopefully some Brazilian magic.

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07/07/00 - Soccerbase Join TeamTalk as SCUM!
So the little boys continue their battle with the big boys. Following on from yesterday's story that fellow third division fan site Netbees had tricked TeamTalk into annoucing a new signing, it appears Soccerbase.com want a slice of the action as well. Approx. 1 hour after TeamTalk copied the Netbees story and placed it on their site, Soccerbase.com decided to believe them. Soccerbase.com is a website that prides itself as being one of the most upto date football resources on the web. last night under Barnet transfers sat John Cosgrove from Watford to Barnet for a free transfer, assistant webmaster John had also been added to the main Soccerbase player database having now been signed by Barnet and having a previous club as Watford. Netbees proceeded to email Soccerbase, informing then of the error and suggesting the check their data before inclusion. The response received back was met by dismay from the Netbees team. "the response we got back, considering we are customers was shocking. The final line of the email was; "Get off your high horse, your only Barnet not fucking Real Madrid."

Hardly a professional way to treat what is becoming a serious matter. Whilst the Internet has a reputation for being a free for all, the bottom line is that it is not. This is not cowboy country. The more companies that are exposed like this, the better. Well done Netbees.

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06/07/00 - Jones IS Turner's Target
The joint message board of Ballistic! - Pools Stat's - In the 'Net has come up smelling of roses once more. Whilst throwing names of possible transfer targets onto the board two weeks ago, Skippy suggested back on 20th of June that Mark Jones met the criteria of a young stiker who has scored both regularly at reserve and youth team level. This bit of early research was picked up by Darren Knowles Right Shinpad and quickly passed onto ITN's Wolverhampton based private eye Wolverhampton Trev. Trev reported "I think I may be wasting my time writing this, because I don't think Mark Jones is for us. That is to say he is for us but he's too good. The word used by Shaun, at the Golf Club, to describe him was "awsome" and he should be playing for the first team. Apparently, he was poached from Aston Villa, a couple of seasons' ago. Doug Ellis went barmy and demanded £500,000 compensation, which Wolves wouldn't pay. Then, it seems Jones' Mam confronted someone at the Wolves practice ground, probably mark McGhee, or somebody like that, asking why he wasn't playing regular first team football. He hasn't played since!"

Today Pool boss Chris Turner confirmed that Jones is indeed his main striking target. Talking to the Hartlepool Mail Turner said "Mark is a prolific goal scorer at youth and intermediate level and could be a big success at Hartlepool. I have brought him up to the town and shown him around and he likes the place. We have made him an offer and now we are just waiting on his reply. I am hopeful we can bring Mark to Hartlepool but it is not a certainty. He is wanted by quite a few other clubs and it will be a tough decision for him. He may not be too keen to move away from the Midlands but we can only wait and see."

In the 'Net salutes Skippy, Darren Knowles Right Shinpad and Wolverhampton Trevor for their sterling work. The beauty of the measure board is the wide range of people spread around both the UK and the globe. What better way to keep your finger on the pulse?

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05/07/00 - TeamTalk in Rip Off Scandal
TeamTalk "the independent Sports news service" had it's fingers badly burnt today when the Barnet website Netbees tricked the 'news' service into believing a fictious player had joined the London club. TeamTalk is rapidly gaining a reputation for 'borrowing' stories from fan run club websites. Today TeamTalk reported that Barnet had signed a former Watford youth team player named John Cosgrove, a ficitious play who is in fact the assistant webmaster of Netbees. Perhaps TeamTalk will be more careful in how they source their 'news' items in future. See the screenshots of both sites.

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04/07/00 - Freestone Completes Shrewsbury Move
In the 'Net can confirm that Pool striker Chris Freestone has completed his move to fellow division three team Shrewsbury Town. Freestone successfully came through his medical on Tuesday morning and signed a two year contract on Tuesday afternoon. The deal was slightly held up as Pool negotiated final arrangements with Freestone and his agent to release him from his Hartlepool United contract. As of 5pm Tuesday afternoon, Chris Freestone became an employee of Shrewsbury Town Football Club. Chris's stay in the North East has been shorter than expected and Pool have cut their loses in allowing a £60,000 buy to leave for no transfer fee. Pool boss Chris Turner now has a free wage and will be looking to add to his squad as soon as possible.

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02/07/00 - Lee's Contract Delay
Pool central defender Graeme Lee is now operating on a week-to-week contract after failing to sign a new extension before his current deal expired. The young Pool star is expected to sign a new deal next week after a few small details are finalised. "It should all be sorted out by next week, I am just waiting on us sitting down and talking things over." Lee told the Hartlepool Mail. It is believed that Lee has been offered a two year deal by the club and not a one year extension like many of the other out of contract players have already signed.

Lee is another of a growing band of Pool youngster who are attracting the interests of clubs in higher divisions. Lee has been watched this season by several clubs with Wigan showing the most interest in the defender/striker. "Every young football wants to make it at the highest level and I am no exception. But I expect to be at Hartlepool next season and I am looking forward to starting training with the lads on Monday." Added Lee.

The news that Lee is stalling on the deal offered is a worry to Pool fans, the youngster has come on leaps and bounds in the past two seasons and should be an ever present in the Pool squad in the up and coming season. Pool have four excellent central defenders and only three positions available. But if Lee was to leave then Chris Turner would have to dip into the transfer market for a backup defender.

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30/06/00 - Pool Await League Decision
News filtered through today that Bristol Rovers have been found guilty of failing to control their supporters after two spectators ran onto the pitch and attacked Stoke goalkeeper Gavin Ward earlier this year. The club will be docked a league point and fined £10,000 if a similar incident occurs during a one-year suspended sentence. This is a similar punishment to what Darlington received after a pitch invasion and a fan struck Shrewsbury's goalkeeper during the 2-2 draw earlier this season. Pool will be hoping that the incident's with both David Hodgson and the now departed Marco Gabbiadini during the first leg of this years play off semi final are treated in a similar manner and the punishment given out will be similiar to that which Rovers and Darlington have received. The FA have set a precident, but who would bet against them going against it?

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29/06/00 - New Season Plans Coming Together
Chris Turner is slowly but surely making sure Pool continue progressing as a team and club with the re-signing of many of last years first team squad. Today the club confirmed that Ian Clark had agreed terms on a new contract despite interest from several other clubs. 25 year old Stockton born Clark had been holding out until his wage was increased in line with the club average. Pool met his terms and Clark was happy to stay at the Vic. Clark said "I have had a few offers, some of which I would have to move my family for and some of which I could commute too. But I have said before that I do not want to leave Hartlepool and I was happy to finally sign another contract. I just felt I deserved to be paid the same as most of the others are on. I am not one of the highest paid players at the club but I felt I deserved a bit more." Clark joins Darren Knowles, Craig Midgley, Paul Stephenson and Martin Hollund in signing new contracts. Graeme Lee and Chris Westwood are still to renew their deals.

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20/06/00 - With a name like Williams, he's got to be good!
Chrissy Turner has just about completed his first signing of the summer. Blackburn Rovers keeper Anthony Williams is currently half way through his medical and will sign for Pool on Tuesday (20/06/00). 22 year old Williams has been capped for Wales U21 team 14 times. Turner said "He has had his x-rays, but the surgeon did not have time to look at them before he was called away. Hopefully everything will be fine and we'll have him signed up today."

The FA also confirmed today that Hartlepool United Football Club have been charged with failing to control the crowd after the first leg play off semi final with Darlington. David Hodgson claimed he was hit by a coin and Marco Gabbiadini was involved in a scuffle with a fan on the way off the field. Darlington were charged with similar offences a fortnight ago and have a suspended 1 league point deduction hanging over them.

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16/06/00 - Keeper First For CT
It's about to happen, Pool boss Chris Turner has his first summer signing lined up and the contract is ready to be signed. Initial indications point to a goalkeeper who is alledged to have played for Wales U21 and plenty of reserve games for his first division team. The announcement should come from the club in the early part of next week.

Pool striker Gary Jones looks like he's on his way out of Victoria Park. Jones and his agent are currently talking to Halifax Town and a move to the club whom borrowed Mr Jones for a month of last season. Although Jonah only scored 1 goal in 8 games, and even that was a deflection off him! Town are keen to add Jones to their squad. The stumbling block would appear to be the £1,000+ a week wages the former third division Golden Boot winner is thought to be paid by Pool. Losing Jones would be a big loss to Pool, although he's not hit top form his alround game is excellent and with the right partner he could be a valuable asset in the third division. But CT wants to free up some wages and move for a new striker, if Jonah has to go, he has to go.

Final three pre-season games have been added. Take a look at the line up here

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13/06/00 - Two Targets for Turner
Chris Turner has lined up a new keeper and striker as his first summer transfer targets to bolster his Pool squad. CT said "It's obvious we need a keeper after Andy was released and I want to bring in someone who can really push Martin for his place. There's no point in just having someone there to sit on the bench. I want someone of a high level who wants to try to take Martin's place so we have a real battle for places. I'm currently in talks with a young keeper who I hope to bring to the club by the end of the week. He's played for a Premiership club and a number of times at Under 21 internationl level so he's certainly got a good pedigree. I have spoken to him a few times and he seems quite keen to join us." Speaking of his quest for a new striker CT said "He is a proven goal scorer at youth and reserve team level and I think he would do the business for us. I'll be talking to him over the next week or two and hopefully we can come to some agreement." Could the keeper be Ben Roberts or Nick Culkin? and the striker must be ?????? your guess is as good as ours.

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12/06/00 - Turner looking Forward to Norway
Pool boss Chris Turner is looking forward to the club's pre-season tour of Norway in early July. Turner said “It should be good for team spirit and we gave Brann a good game over here before their season. We beat them 3-1, so they know they will not be playing a bad team. We will also watch them play against Rosenborg, who are top of their league.” Let's hope watching a top of the table match will become something of a weekly event for Pool in the up and coming season. Turner has yet to make a move in the transfer market, and we are still waiting to here if Martin Hollund, Graeme Lee and Ian Clark will be signing the contracts offered to them. Turner's main priority remains a goalscorer, but he must also be ready to move for a midfielder if Pool receive and offer they can't refuse for Tommy Miller.

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11/06/00 - Pre-Season Program Finalised
Pool have announced final details of the main pre-season warm up program. Barnsley have now agreed to play the Pool and a couple of games against local non-league teams have been added to the schedule.

Date	Opponents	Kick-Off
Sat, July 15th	Aberdeen (h)	3pm
Sun, July 16th	Off to Norway	-
Tues, July 18th	Brann Bergen	n/a
Thurs, July 20th	Sogndal	n/a
Sat, July 22nd	Fana	n/a
Mon, July 24th	Back from Norway	-
Wed, July 26th	Whitby Town (a)	7:30pm
Thurs, July 27th	Crook Town (a)	7:30pm
Sat, July 29th	Berwick Rangers (a)	2pm
Tues, Aug 1st	Barnsley (h)	7:30pm
Wed, Aug 2nd	Ashington (a)	7:30pm
Sat, Aug 5th	Northwich Vic (a)	3pm

Rumours of new shirt sponsors or indeed no shirt sponsors are still doing the rounds on the message board. If Pool fail to agree a deal with a sponsor then a PR disaster could be on the horizon. Early indications are showing that the move would be very unpopular with the fans and shirt sales would decrease. Keep your eye peeled to the board for more details.

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08/06/00 - Pre-Season Program Announced
With the Victoria Park pitch not having major reworking this summer as previously planned, the club have been able to arrange home pre-season friendlies. Pool face Scottish Premier division side Aberdeen on Saturday July 15th. The Dons reached both domestic cup finals, but lost them both. Ebbe Skovdahl's side finished bottom of the Scottish Premiership but remain in the top flight as Division One champions Falkirk's ground is not upto the required standard for Premiership football. Pool will then travel to Norway for an 8 day tour including a return game with Brann Bergen. Pool hosted Brann back in March when they came to England for a pre-season tour. The last game of the tour saw the visitors take on their honest and Pool came out 3-1 winners on a rainy night at Victoria Park.

When Pool return to England they will face Berwick Rangers and Colin West's former club Northwich Victoria. No dates have been released for these games yet. Chris Turner said "I have geared this summer's pre-season programme to fit in with the type of matches we will be playing in the league. Aberdeen are a tough side with plenty of experience and will give us a good run out after the summer. We are hoping to get something sorted out with a couple of Northern League sides who'll give us a tough game. I looked at last years pre-season program and it probably wasn't what we needed. The clubs we played didn't put out their top teams and while they were decent games, they were not real physical tests."

How about we play Durham City? nope can't see that happening. Or what about Blyth Spartans? can't see that happening either! The Pool team return for pre-season training on July 3rd and as yet there have been no additions to the squad which completed last seasons league program at Hull City.

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07/06/00 - Cough, Ahem, Cough!
Pools on the Move Society, week no. 23, Saturday 03.06.2000. Winners drawn by Sharon Precious, manageress of the HUFC club shop. First prize £500 winner is Chris Turner c/o Hartlepool United Football Club. No comment!

There was however comment from Mr Christopher Turner who speaking to the Hartlepool Mail's Ian Monaghan said "I am donating the cash between a cancer charity and research into Parkinson's disease because they are both close to me and my family." In the popularity stakes, CT should run for MP! an excellent jesture from the Pool boss.

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06/06/00 - Gabbiadini Turns His Back on Darlo
One man band Marco Gabbiadini looks set to leave the goodship Feethams for Conference team Doncaster Rovers. The Yorkshire side were relegated out of the Football League in 1997/98 season and so far have been unable to challenge for a return to Division Three. They have offered Gabbiadini £3,000 a week for three years in a bid to regain league status. Gabbiadini scored 25 third division goals and 28 in total for Darlington last season but cannot agree terms with Pools local rivals. Darlington have offered their captain a two year deal, but he has been holding out for the three year contract. Gabbiadini suffered a massive blip in form after Rushden & Diamonds failed with a £350,000 bid for the Nottingham born player on transfer deadline day this season. Gabbiadini has also been linked with moves to Macclesfield and Notts County and looks certain to leave.

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05/06/00 - Who Will Be New Shirt Sponsor?
With Pool yet to announce which name will be appearing on the shirt of the 00/01 season Hartlepool United kit, fans have been left to throw names into the ring. So far this week members of the Ballistic! - Pools Stats - In the 'Net message board have discussed the possibility of Springs Health Club, Arriva the Car company, Amec the construction company, Stagecoach the towns bus company and even IOR putting their own name on the Blue and White of Pool. Current Sponsors Camerons brewery have recently been taken over and it is thought that the new owners are less than keen to renew the deal especially if Pool have increased the cost. Camerons new owners are currently involved in a number of high profile sponsor deals including football club Walsall.

A new name on the shirt will no doubt mean a new strip for the up and coming season. It would come as a pleasant surprise if the club owners IOR decided not to cash in on a new sponsorship deal with a redesigned home shirt and possibly away shirt. An annoucement will need to be made soon.

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04/06/00 - Pool Chief's Big Call Up
The Hartlepool Mail reported that Pool director Ian Prescott has been called up by Downing Street to help shape the future of English football. Prescott is the current principal of East Durham and Houghall Community College who have strong links with Pool. The Football Foundations Grass Roots Think Tank also includes former Tottenham and England footballer, now TV pundit Garth Crooks, and the current chief executive of Liverpool football club Rick Parry. Their aim will be to advise Downing Street on the future of the game. Mr Prescott has been included in the initiative after his work in establishing the National Women's Football Academy at his Peterlee College. Mr Prescott said "This is a tremendous honour for both myself and the college and I will be doing everything I can to be heard despite the exalted company."

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18/05/00 - Darlington 1 Hartlepool United 0
It was all change again as Chris Turner came up with another surprise name on the team sheet as he opted for Chris Freestone to partner Gary Jones and Graeme Lee upfront. Gary Strodder returned and Andy Dibble took Martin Hollund's place in goal. Darren Knowles and Kevin Henderson were left out after both failed to recover from injuries. James Coppinger was absent from the team as was Paul Beavers.

Pool were looking for an early goal, but got the worst possible start. In the 8th minute a right wing cross was turned into his own net by Gary Strodder. There was little Andy Dibble could do about the goal and Pool now had a mountain to climb. A minute later Andy Dibble turned a Peter Duffield header onto the cross bar and away as Darlington threatened to end the game in the first 10 minutes. Pools to there credit dragged themselves into the game. Chris Freestone had a long range shot saved. Paul Arnison tried his luck from a 30 yard free kick but it went wide of the left hand post. Paul Stephenson had a chance to fire a shot goalward after the Collett had been beaten to the ball, but his shot hit the ground first which took most of the speed out of the effort. As the first half came to a close Peter Duffield header wide after Tutill headed a Heaney free kick back into the box. In the final minute an ambitious Paul Arnison over head kick went well high and wide. HT: Darlington 1 Hartlepool 0.

The second half was slightly delayed as the Tin Shed throw missiles at Andy Dibble in the Pool goalmouth. The keeper brought it to the attention of the referee who spoke to Darlington stewards. Andy Dibble was called into action early as he saved comfortably from Jesper Hjorth. Hjorth followed up with a wayward shot a minute later. Paul Arnison then won a corner for Pool which Chris Freestone headed home, but the referee disallowed the goal for an obstruction on Collett. Chris Turner replaced Paul Stephenson with Lee Fitzpatrick as he looked for more drive from the midfield. A flick on from Gary Jones had Paul Arnison stretching, but his effort wide just wide of the far post. Turner then replaced Gary Jones with Andy McAvoy and soon after Marco Gabbiadini had an effort blocked by Micky Barron. As the rain started to poor down, Gabbiadini found himself one on one with Dibble, who raced out and beat the striker to the ball. The referee decided enough was enough and blew for fulltime. FT: Darlington 1 Hartlepool 0.

Dibble, Clark, Westwood, Strodder, Barron, Arnison, Miller, Stephenson (Fitzpatrick), Lee, Jones (McAvoy), Freestone. Unused subs: Provett, Shilton, Midgley. Attendance: 8232. Booked: Clark, Westwood.

A disappointing reaction from the home fans who raced towards the visiting Pool fans looking to spark off trouble. To their full credit, there was no reaction from the Pool fans apart from even more singing. Pool on the pitch battled their way through the two games. But an end of season injury jinx saw Chris Turner having to change his team for both games. Pools only downfall has been a lack of goals. If Turner can rectify this problem before next season, Pool will continue to progress. It's been a great season.

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17/05/00 - Play Off Preview
At 2-0 down, Chris Turner knows his team has NOTHING to lose as they go into the second semi final third division play off final with Darlington. For the first leg Pool were missing first teamers Darren Knowles, Gary Strodder and Kevin Henderson. All three are key players in the Pool first 11 and without them Pool were overcome by Darlington and some dubious refereeing decisions. Going into the second leg Pool are again under strength. Martin Hollund misses the game after being sent off on Saturday, a suspension which the league has decided will have immediate effect. Andy Dibble stands by to replace Hollund. Gary Strodder is expected to return to the heart of the Pool defence. However Knowles and Henderson look likely to miss the game.

Gary Jones's performance as a second half substitute could well see him given a starting role, in a front line of Coppinger, Lee and Jones himself. The midfield picks itself after Paul Stephenson declared himself fit, despite picking up an early back injury on Saturday. Tommy Miller will be looking to have a much more effective game and Ian Clark will be hoping he can go one better than the wood work at the Vic and register at Feethems. The task for Pool is simple, goals are the key. If Pool can start scoring, then anything can happen. It's a tall order, but so was going to Hull and getting a result.

The key to the game may lie in the Pool defence. If Strodder, Barron and Westwood can keep a clean sheet, Pool have every chance of hauling themselves back into the game. If Darlington score first then its virtually game over. A big crowd is expected at Feethems, and inexcess of 2000 Pools fans will be at the Vic for a big screen beam back. The 725 Poolies in Feethems have a big part to play, if Pool can get this result it will go down in history as one of the all time great result. Here's hoping.

Yours forever Blue,

In the 'Net

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13/05/00 - Hartlepool United 0 Darlington 2
Pool were dealt a major blow as Kevin Henderson, Darren Knowles and Gary Strodder were all ruled out of this match with injuries. Central defender Strodder was ruled out with a calf strain picked up in training of Friday. Striker Henderson was laid low with a stomach bug, whilst right back Knowles failed to recover from a knee injury picked up at Hull in Pools last match. Chris Turner shuffled his pack and push Graeme Lee back into the centre of defence. Paul Beavers and Craig Midgley were brought into the Pool attack. With 7000 fans inside Victoria Park, the atmosphere was superb. Even with many people jumping on the Pool bandwagon, the all made themselves heard and played their part in one most high profile games at the Vic in recent years.

The first chance of the game arrived on two minutes. A Jesper Hjorth throw in was head towards goal by Macro Gabbiadini, but Martin Hollund collected the ball comfortably. In the 4th minute Gabbiadini tried his luck from 25 yards, but his shot went wide of the Pool goal. In the 7th minute, referee Barry Knight made his first major decision of the afternoon. Pool striker Craig Midgley was brought down by Craig Liddle who was the last defender, on the edge of the 18 yard box. Liddle was fortunate to receive only a yellow card from the Orpington official. From the resulting free kick, Ian Clark tried his luck, but his shot was saved by Andy Collett at the back post. In the 12th minute Ian Clark drove at the heart of the Darlington defence, after skipping past three players Clark unleashed a shot from the edge of the box which rattled the far post and went away to safety. In the 27th minute Jesper Hjorth found his way into the referee's notebook. A quick exchange of passes between Coppinger and Stephenson set Clark free down the left, his run was stop by Hjorth with an illegal tackle. Gabbiadini quickly followed Hjorth into the book, after a crude challenge on Graeme Lee. In the 36th minute the visitors took the lead. A trip on Neil Heaney resulted in a free kick on the right of the Pool box. The set piece was sent across goal and headed back to the penalty spot by Tutill, and Craig Liddle was the first to react and put his half volley past Hollund. Two minutes later Midgley was tripped on the edge of the Darlington box, Paul Stephenson's resulting free kick cleared the goal by a yard. Pool finished the half on the attack, but could not pull level before the referee blew for the break. Half time: Pool 0 Darlington 1.

After half time entertainment from H'Angus, the Pool fans were back in full voice for the start of the second half. Chris Turner decided a change was needed and the returning Gary Jones came on for the ineffective Paul Beavers. Jones has spent the month on loan at Halifax, but Pools lack of strikers enable a quick return to first team action for the clubs record signing. In the 47th minute Pool played some good football. A long ball from Spike Lee was knocked through by Tommy Miller to James Coppinger, the on loan striker shielded the ball and then played Jones in, only for the referee's assistant to raise the flag for offside. Darlington came close to extending their lead when Gabbiadini challenged Hollund for a high ball, and won it. As the ball bounced towards goal, Micky Barron was on hand to hook it away. In the 49th minute Ian Clark became Pools first booking. His battle with Hjorth was proving to be as entertaining as expected, on this occasion Clark was adjudged to have fouled the Dane. In the 53rd minute a Pool corner was poorly bounced clear by Collett when he should have caught the ball easily. Graeme Lee's shot was blocked as he tried to add to his impressive goal tally this season. In the 55th minute good work from Jones and Midgley allowed Tommy Miller to get a shot in. But this time the midfielder was well off target and was he was having a quiet all round game.

The 56th minute of the game saw what was possible the turning point of the whole match. Gary Jones fired in a 25 yard shot which Collett could only parry. Craig Midgley was first on the scene and quickly gained control of the ball and rounded the keep. With the simple task of pushing the ball over the line, Midgley seemed to get caught in two minds. Take the goal or pass to Coppinger. He rolled the ball along the line with Coppinger unable to arrive and the back post quick enough. 6300 Hartlepool fans were on the verge of celebrating pulling level, a truly amazing miss. With the crowd now whipped up into a frenzy Pool came back at Darlington straight away. Midgely made excellent progress down the right wing and crossed for Coppinger, who failed to control the ball. Tommy Miller tried his luck, but the ball cleared the bar. In the 59th minute Miller went close again after more good work from James Coppinger. Hollund needed to be alert two minutes later as he beat Martin Gray to a short backpass. In the 75th minute Glen Naylor and Lee Nogan replaced Martin Gray and Peter Duffield. Whilst Pool replaced James Coppinger with Andy McAvoy. From the restart Gabbiadini did well down the left and play Naylor in on goal. Naylor appeared to be three yards offside, a statement David Hodgson agreed with after the match. The assistant referee did not flag and Naylor was free to take on Martin Hollund. The Pool keeper was adjudged to have brought Naylor down has he tried to round the Norwegian. Television replays show there was little contact. But a penalty was awarded and Martin Hollund was shown the red card. Chris Turner immediately replace Paul Arnison with Andy Dibble, and Pools second choice keeper went straight on to face the spot kick. Dibble guessed right and appeared to get a touch to the ball, but he could not prevent Marco Gabbiadini increasing Darlington's lead. In the 79th minute the game nearly spilled over. Glen Naylor kicked out at Chris Westwood, who had to be restrained by his team mates. David Hodgson entered the field of play to try and calm the situation down. This did little but incense the home crowd. Naylor was booked for his actions. As Hodgson returned to his dugout he appeared to be hit by an object thrown from the Millhouse stand. He reacted to this by going to the edge of the pitch and looked to gesture 'come on' to the home fans. Hundreds of fans reacted and Hodgson very nearly incited a riot. Swift action from the stewards and Chris Turner went someway to cooling the situation. As the clock ran down Pool attempted to get back into the game. However Darlington had now pulled men back and were happy to settle for what they had got. Paul Stephenson tried his luck from the edge of the area, but was high and wide with his shot. Full Time: Pool 0 Darlington 2.

Pool team: Hollund, Arnison (Dibble), Lee, Barron, Westwood, Clark, Stephenson, Miller, Coppinger (McAvoy), Beavers (Jones), Midgley. Subs not used: Fitzpatrick, Shilton. Sent off: Hollund. Booked: Clark. Attendance: 6995.

As usual, a full blooded local derby match. The Pool crowd did their club and town proud with the passion and commitment shown on the terraces. The team worked equally hard, but with the late withdrawals of key players the settled team had been upset. The introduction of Gary Jones proved to be the turning point for Pool and with a difficult second leg coming up, the striker should start at Feethems. Chris Turner has a difficult job on his hands to raise the Pool team for the return leg. The players looked dejected and drained at the end of the match. On the bright side, reaching the play off's has meant Pool have already had a successful season and went into this semi final with nothing to lose. The return leg will need to be approached in the same way as the recent game at Hull. To put it as plainly as possible, Pool have nothing to lose and everything to gain. That fat lady is still not singing, not quiet.

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11/05/00 - Play Off Preview
Got your ticket? if you answered yes, then congratulations, if no, life's a bitch eh? There are plenty that haven't and it's hardly gone smoothly down @ Victoria Park this week with regards to the ticket sales. But, 7000+ people do have a ticket and the game is fast approaching, time to work out what's gonna happen as two of the lower leagues old enemies come face to face in a straight battle for a trip to the derelict worn out stadium known famously as WEMBLEY.

Going into the game, Pool are in the best form. Having already taken 4 points from preseason championship favourites Darlington, Pool finished the season with two defeats in the last seven games and that fantastic 3-0 performance at Hull which sealed 7th spot on the last day of the season. Chris Turner will be confident his players can continue their form and take the upper hand in this first leg semi final. Currently Pools only doubt for the match is right wing back Darren Knowles. Daz was carried off after just 20 minutes at Hull with what looked a serious knee injury. However it was later decided the damage was little more that bruising. Knowles has been receiving treatment on the knee all week, but a decision on his fitness will be left as late as possible. Gary Strodder is available for both legs despite receiving a red card at Hull. However if Pool make it to the Twin towers, Strodder is set to miss the game. Pool have appealed against the red card, but these appeals rarely bare fruit.

Darlington arrive at the Vic having finally won a game, the Quakers polished off Lincoln City at Feethems on the final day of the season, 2-0. This was only their second win in twelve games, a run which saw David Hodgson's team drop out of the automatic promotion places and into the play off's. Going into the game Darlington have doubts over Lee Nogan, Neil Aspin, Steve Baker and Jesper Hjorth. However it looks as though only Baker will miss the game, with the others making steady progress.

Pool ran out 2-0 winners this season at the Vic, and Easter Monday's match at Feethams beach ended 1-1 with Tommy Miller netting first for Pool and Heckingbottom pulling the home side level in the second half. Last season (1998/99) Darlington did the double over Pool with a 2-0 win at Feethams and a 3-2 win at Victoria Park, Pools goals coming from Stuart Irvine and Tommy Miller. Season 1997/98 saw a 1-1 draw at Feethams with Jon Cullen grabbing Pools goal and a 2-2 draw at the Vic with Pool racing into a 2-0 lead via goals from the sublime Jan Ove Pedersen and ginger Ginola Ian Clark.

Prediction time! right then, no predictions are easy, derby games make it harder as the saying goes 'the form book goes out of the window'. So to have a derby match which just happens to be a play off semi final makes working out what's in store just about impossible. But this section is all about ITN's prediction, in for a penny in for a pound. Pool 2 Darlo 0, a repeat of the October score. Not quite the same performance, a penalty for Pool and James Coppinger will be invoking the sods law rule and returning to haunt Darlington somewhere along the line. Whether this will be good enough to take to Feethems and 'that' pitch is another story, one we'll talk about next week.

Yours forever Blue,

In the 'Net.

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06/05/00 - Hull City 0 Hartlepool United 3
I think you know what I'm about to say.....Pools season continues! Yes. Chris Turner played the Fergie minds games all week stating he would approach this final game like any other game this season. He would not be changing his formation and definitely not going for all out attack. Well Pool started with James Coppinger in attack with Greame Lee and Kevin Henderson, Paul Arnison dropped down to the bench. Attacking away from the travelling fans, Pool got off to a dream start. In only the third minute Ian Clark swung over a left sided corner and Graeme Lee rose highest at the never post to head the ball home. Cue celebrations for the 1000+ fans in the away end. Six minutes later and Christmas came early, Paul Stephenson was brough down and from the resulting free kick he found Jamie Coppinger who headed into the far corner of the net from 12 yards. Another ripple of polite applause occured in the away end. The home fans didn't look too happy and a couple of divots spilled onto the pitch. In the 20th minute Darren Knowles came out of a 50/50 worst and was stretchered from the pitch, replaced with Paul Arnison. In the 30th minute Gary Strodder received the red card from Frazer Stretton (yes him!), Strodder was late with his challenge and went through the back of David Brown, but red was harsh, yellow would have been better. Graeme Lee dropped back into the centre of defence. From Pools third corner came Pools third goal. In the 36th minute Ian Clark again from the left swung the ball in and after a mini scramble in front of goal Kevin Henderson tapped the ball over the line. The away fans were pleased again. The mobile phone companies were doing good business as the Pool fans rang out for news on Torquay and Southend. A round of 'One Stevie Howard' signalled good news from Plainmoor, but Cheltenhem had the lead at Southend. As the first half came to a close, news of an equaliser for Southend came through and the fans could try and relax a little during the break. H/T: Hull 0 Pool 3.

Had the news of Pools great first half show got through to both Torquay and Cheltenhem? who knows. During the second half 10 men Pool never look troubled and could have added more goals to their tally. But what the hell was going on at Roots Hall? If you can't beat them, join them! the ITN mobile was as busy as any with attempts to find out what was going on. As the second half progressed, on the pitch Pool were in full control, off it the fans were doing their best to cheer Pool on no matter what was going to happen. A second goal for Cheltenhem would have signalled the end for Pool. Chris Turner replaced the hard working Henderson with McAvoy and then Coppinger with Craig Midgley. Two minutes from time the Pool fans in the seats jumped up, then the centre of the away end, then all of us, Southend had grabbed a last minute winner. Pool were there. F/T: Hull 0 Pool 3.

Pool team: Hollund, Knowles (Arnison), Strodder, Barron, Westwood, Clark, Stephenson, Miller, Coppinger (Midgley), Lee, Henderson (MacAvoy). Subs not used: Fitzpatrick, Shilton. Sent off: Strodder. Attendance: 7620.

The celebrations had begun, but stopped as the PA announced the final scores, Steve Howard had done the business at Plainmoor for Northampton against Torquay and then the confirmation the Cheltenham had lost. ITN doesn't know what it feels like to win the lottery, but we've got a better idea now. There were some happy Poolies in that away end. First leg of the play off's, a week Sunday (14th @ Victoria Park), away leg on the 17th. Welcome back to Victoria Park Darlington, if you want up, you'll have to beat us first.

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24/04/00 - Hartlepool United 1 Rotherham United 2
As expected Pool lined up with the team which started against Darlington on Easter Monday. This meant that makeshift centre forward Graeme Lee continued upfront with Kevin Henderson. Early press reports indicated a crowd of 6000+ inside the Vic, but as kick off approached this figure seemed well wide of the mark. With a great atmosphere inside the ground Pool got off to the worst possible start. In the 6th minute Ian Clark was beaten by his man Sedgewick, Micky Barron came across to cover for Clark but Sedgewick whipped the ball into the box leaving Leo Fortune West with the easy task of heading past Martin Hollund in the Pool goal. Pool quickly regained their composure and got back into the game. Ian Clark made excellent progress down the left wing, got to the goal line and after beating a defender he clipped the ball past Mike Pollitt in the Millers goal. The Rotherham fans appealed that Clark had taken the ball out of play, but the goal stood. Guy Branston entered the referee's notebook in the 32nd minute for dissent. Both sides battled away to half time, but couldn't break through opposing defences who were on top throughout the opening 45 minutes. HT: Pool 1 Millers 1.

The second half started just like the first for Pool. Four minutes after the restart Rotherham regained the lead. A throw in from the right was headed on by Scott to Guy Branston who turned and drilled his shot past Martin Hollund. Kevin Henderson was played in by Greame Lee, but with space running out to get a shot in, Pollitt quickly came out and blocked Henderson's run. In the 75th minute Chris Turner made a double substitution, with Paul Beavers replaced Greame Lee and Lee Fitzpatrick coming on for Paul Arnison. In the 80th minute Turner replaced Darren Knowles with James Coppinger. Pool were by now playing with a three man attack in a bid to get back into the game. Pool started to create half chances, a Lee Fitzpatrick long throw was flicked on by Paul Beavers but Kevin Henderson managed to clear the ball under pressure from a Rotherham defender and Mike Pollitt. Kevin Henderson then tried an overhead kick, but made contact with a Rotherham defender instead of the ball! Ian Clark blazed wide with a long range effort and Paul Beavers hooked over the bar from three yards, although he was offside anyway. In the final minute of the game Beavers had another chance but again cleared the bar. It was not to be for Pool. FT: Pool 1 Millers 2.

Pool team: Hollund, Knowles (Coppinger), Strodder, Barron, Westwood, Clark, Stephenson, Miller, Arnison (Fitzpatrick), Lee (Beavers), Henderson. Subs not used: Dibble, Shilton. Attendance: 4673.

So it's all down to the last day of the season then. Pool away to Hull City, Cheltenham away to Southend. The advantage is now firmly with The Robins, but the fat lady is not singing just yet. Give it a few days and Pool will be back. Well done Rotherham, good luck for Division Two.

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28/04/00 - Rotherham Preview
There's big games and there are huge games. Hartlepool United v Rotherham. This readers is up with the biggest. After a 4 point haul over the Easter weekend, Chris Turner's Hartlepool United side face the Millers in another promotion shoot out. Rotherham will be certain of promotion if they can take a point from the game, Pool can secure their play off place if they win and Cheltenham slip up. Big crowd expected @ la Vic for the third division game of the day. Was that over the top?!

Pool go into the game in fine form, unbeaten in three, two defeats in the last twelve, unbeaten at home since 19th February. And it is Pools impressive home record that takes them into this game as slight favourites. Pool have the best home record in the third division and only Manchester City have a better home record in the football league. Rotherham though have one of the best away records in the third. A tight match then. Pool are expected to be unchanged from the team which drew 1-1 at Darlington on Easter Monday, which means another game upfront for Graeme Lee. Pool player of the year Paul Stephenson will no doubt be out to impress yet again and Tommy Miller will be eager to add to his 16 goal haul this term.

This season at Rotherham Pool were simply outclassed in the first half. Rotherham opened up a 3-0 lead in the first 45 minutes, leaving Pool with an almost impossible task in the second half. However Pool came out and put on a good show despite not scoring. Last season Pool again lost 3-0 away and draw 0-0 at home. Season 1997/98 saw Pool lose 2-1 away with Jon Cullen netting for Pool, the return game at the Vic ended 0-0 again.

Well a big crowd, two teams at the top of the table, sunny day, 1-0 Pool. Graeme Lee to grab the all important goal. Dig out the Rotherham site and see what they have got to say about the game.

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24/04/00 - Darlington 1 Hartlepool United 1
As expected central defender Gary Strodder returned to the starting line up after a one game suspension. Graeme moved back into the forward line and Paul Beavers dropped down to the bench. Craig Midgley lost his place on the bench to Andy Dibble. Midgley left the pitch injured on Saturday with what early indications pointed to broken ribs. However x-rays showed no damage, but Chris Turner chose not to risk Midgley. Pool roared on by the 750 travelling fans attacked the Tin Shed end in the first half, and settled into the game quickly. Marco Gabbiadini had the first real chance of the game on 10 minutes when he curled a shot wide of Martin Hollund's goal. Ian Clark linked well with Kevin Henderson on 25 minutes and blasted a shot straight at Andy Collett who parried the ball away. In the 33rd minute a looping header from Gabbiadini hit the corner of the Pool goal and bounced on the bar and away for a goal kick. In the 36th minute Kevin Henderson played the ball off to Tommy Miller who managed to turn and get a shot in, however Collett turned the ball away for a Pool corner. In the final minute of the first half Pool took the lead. A cross was only half cleared and Paul Arnison headed the ball back into the box, Kevin Henderson flicked it into the path of Tommy Miller, who coolly toe poked it into the bottom corner of the Darlo goal. Miller seemed to make a point of celebrating in front of the Tin Shed! A goal from Tommy was inevitable, he'd had his haircut again. HT: 0-1.

As the second half started to light rain, it was clear Darlo would throw everything they had at Pool to get back into the game. In the 52nd minute on loan Sunderland winger Neil Wainwright Shot from the edge of the box after Martin Hollund had pounced clear from a corner. Wainwright playing his last game of a three month loan spell watched as his shot went well over the bar and into the Darlington fans. On the hour mark Darlington equalised. Substitute Jesper Hjorth shot on the turn, Hollund did well to get a hand on the ball but Paul Heckingbottom was on hand to slide the ball in the net from three yards out. In the 61st minute Kevin Henderson met a Paul Stephenson free kick, but he could only head the ball straight into the arms of the waiting Collett. In the 77th minute Marco Gabbiadini got the chance he had been waiting for. He broke clear of the Pool defence and with only Hollund to beat managed to smash his shot high and wide. In the final minutes of the match Chris Turner replaced Chris Westwood with Paul Beavers, who swapped positions with Graeme Lee. In the final minute of the game Darlo were awarded a free kick on the edge of the Pool box. Gabbiadini lined a shot up and as virtually the whole of the ground held its breath, again he managed to miss the target. One minute later the referee blew his whistle and what had been billed as the most important derby game in a decade ended even. FT: 1-1.

Pool team: Hollund, Knowles, Strodder, Barron, Westwood (Beavers), Clark, Stephenson, Miller, Arnison, Lee, Henderson. Subs not used: Dibble, Fitzpatrick, Shilton, Coppinger. Attendance: 6746.

A point was vital for Pool in their current race for a play off position. With Cheltenham losing to Rotherham Pool now have a two point gap over 8th placed Cheltenham. Whilst Darlington might feel hard done by after having the majority of position, the finally ball just was not there for the home team. Martin Hollund certainly wasn't over worked. If a team can win games at home, anything picked up on the road is a bonus. Pool have the best home record in the third division having taken three points from Northampton, Peterborough, Barnet and of course Darlington. Next up is Rotherham, another home win could well see Pool secure their play off spot, if Cheltenham slip up. Darlington are now out of the top three and may not have seen the back of Pool just yet this season.

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23/04/00 - Darlington Preview
Here we go again, round two of what is considered to be the most hotly disputed derby of the third division. When derby talk is big news it's Liverpool v Everton, Rangers v Celtic, Bristol City v Bristol Rovers all big games. But although the crowds are not as large, the Darlington v Hartlepool game is still up there with the best of them. This year the second of the two games, looks like being one of the most important for ten years. Darlington are hanging on to an automatic promotion spot on goals difference only. Pool are sitting in the last play off spot by one point only.

Off to Feethams we go then. After winning at Victoria Park 2-0 back in October, Darlington certainly have a score to settle with Pool this season. The win for Pool was unexpected, Pool were second bottom, the Quakers second top and with George Reynolds spinning his lyrical charms from pillar to post. Didn't happen on the pitch though, for all of Darlington's confidence pre match was shattered as Pool set their stall out from the first minute. A desire and passion was evident and debut goals from Sam Shilton and a thunderbolt from Lee Fitzpatrick both early in the second half sealed a tremendous win for Pool. A win which clearly David Hodgson never got over, as there's hardly a week goes by were the result doesn't get a mention in a post match Hodgson interview.

Pool have a full strength squad to chose from. Gary Strodder returns from suspension and is likely to be added to the squad. If he steps straight into the starting 11 is a decision Chris Turner will keep close to his chest. While CT is an admirer of the Strodder game, he 'should' be reluctant to change a winning team. If Strodder does return to the centre of defence, then Graeme Lee is likely to be moved back upfront to attack as the Pool battering ram, with most likely Paul Beavers stepping down to the bench. All other position will be unchanged after the 1-0 win over Mansfield which lifted Pool back into 7th position. One absentee for Pool will be mascot H'Angus, who has been banned from the ground. Scared? you betcha!

As already mentioned Pool ran out 2-0 winners this season at the Vic. Last season Darlington did the double over Pool win a 2-0 win at Feethams and a 3-2 win at Victoria Park, Pools goals coming from Stuart Irvine and Tommy Miller. Season 1997/98 saw a 1-1 draw at Feethams with Jon Cullen grabbing Pools goal and a 2-2 draw at the Vic with Pool racing into a 2-0 lead via goals from the subline Jan Ove Pedersen and Ian Clark.

So then, it's prediction time. After already reading Lars In the Distance try to decide between the head and the heart ITN find themselves in a very similar position. Darlington are on the back foot. But make no mistake David Hodgson will have his team better prepared then the first game this season between the two sides. Pool have struggled away from home for most of the season, but perhaps getting back into the play of places will see a renewed resiliance from the visiting team. There would appear to be more pride at stake in the Hartlepool team. Micky Barron will be out to get one over on his good friend Craig Liddle, Paul Arnison was in the Town End for the 2-0 victory over Darlington in October. He's a Hartlepool lad and will be up for the match. The same can be said for Tommy Miller who David Hodgson sees as Pools main threat. Up front Kevin Henderson appears to be getting back to his best and James Coppinger, should he figure during the 90 minutes will be out to show his old club just how far he has progressed. ITN's heart says 2-1 Pool. The head says a 0-0 draw. Game on.