Hartlepool United manager Simon Grayson speaks on his first taste of defeat since joining the Club after a 2-0 loss to South Shields.

Two goals from Paul Blackett mean Pools end their season preparations with a loss.

The Pools boss said:

“Look, I don’t like losing anything, but all pre-season has been about is trying to look at positives and look at negatives.

“Just because we’ve lost today, that hasn’t changed the ideas that we’ve had from one.”

A string of changes were made to the Pools side during the game, allowing players to get crucial minutes going into the regular season next week against Yeovil Town.

“I’ve learned things about individuals and the units that we’ve worked on for six weeks, even better now after today’s result.

“There are a few players that are not where we all want to be, but that just comes with signing players when you do in the summer window.

“Ultimately, I think the players are in a good place.”

The full interview can be found on our YouTube.