Neale Cooper says he has no doubt that his players are ready for action as they put their finishing touches to preparations for the new campaign.
After a hard but positive pre season, the Pools boss is certain that the squad can prosper during 2012/13 and admitted that the excitement is definitely starting to build.
"Just the fact the real games are starting now is exciting," Cooper told
Pools Player.
"I think we've had enough pre season now we have to take the best of what we've seen from the friendlies in to the cup game this weekend at Crewe.
"Everyone feels ready after working so hard, you can sense that; they've done everything we've asked them to do and are raring to go as much as I am.
"The friendlies take care of themselves but now it's done to the Real McCoy and we have to try and get off to a good start."