Hartlepool United defender Jay Benn believes his side can bounce back from defeat against Sutton United when they face FC Halifax Town on Saturday at the Prestige Group Stadium.
Benn began his career at the Shaymen, who currently sit one league position above Pools in the race for a play-off spot. Ahead of the clash, the defender told local press: “We know what Halifax bring, they’re a strong side, willing runners.
“We know what threat they pose. As we did at their place, we’ll stick to the game plan.
“[It’s] my old club, I’ll be well up for the game. These games are what you live for as a player – it’s direct competition for the play-offs. We want to win, as will they, so it will be a good game.”
After a 2-0 loss against the Us on Tuesday night, Benn insisted that Pools do not want the season to “fizzle out”.
“If you look back, we’ve missed big chances at key times in the game, which would’ve given us something to hold onto”, the defender said.
“We’ve conceded from a controllable in a set-piece, so it hurts and it’s a frustrating one. I think we’ve got to react better to going 1-0 down. We’ve just got to look back at it and fix what happened.
“At the business end of the season, every game is a must-win – especially with the situation we’re in, chasing the likes of Southend.
“Coming into the last games, we’ve got teams [to play] around us and above us, and I still think it’s in our hands. We’ve got to do what we can control.”
The right-back has been a main feature for Pools this campaign – starting in all but two matches since early September, and more recently showing his versatility at right wing-back and left-back.
“I’m glad to be playing regularly and getting minutes”, Benn added.
“I’ve got things to improve as well, but I’m happy with my game time and where we’re at. I’ll play wherever the gaffer puts me.
“The fans have been great with me all year. Especially when you’re playing on their side, you do get a feel, and they give you a buzz. They can give you that extra yard in games, definitely.”
