Hartlepool United boss Nicky Featherstone hopes his side can return to winning ways tomorrow, as they welcome Anstey Nomads to the Prestige Group Stadium in the Third Round of the Isuzu FA Trophy. 

Ahead of the clash against the Northern Premier League Midlands outfit, the Gaffer told local press: “We have to go in there with the right mentality. 

“We’ve got another opportunity tomorrow to start another unbeaten run and get back to winning ways, hopefully. 

“There will be changes, but not wholesale changes. I want to do well in this competition. I want to take this competition very seriously – other than getting to the play–off final, it is the best route to Wembley for us. 

“The Club has never been to Wembley, so let’s see where we can go.” 

Following a 2-0 defeat at home to Yeovil Town last time out, Featherstone said: “(We were) disappointed naturally after the defeat against Yeovil. It’s the first setback really since we’ve took over, and that’s all it is – a setback.  

“An opportunity missed, but other than that, the lads have been brilliant in the seven league games before that.” 

At the end of last weekend’s game, tensions boiled over, which led to Jermaine Francis receiving a red card after the full-time whistle.  

On Francis’s availability, the Pools boss confirmed the winger will miss the next three games, and added: “(It’s) not ideal, it leaves us a little bit short; a reaction amongst a mass brawl, I suppose.” 

However, in a more positive light, yesterday it was announced that Elliott Dickman signed a contract as First Team Coach until the end of the season, with an option to extend the deal.  

Featherstone expressed his delight to the press, saying, “Elliott was always going to be a part of it from my point of view. (It’s) brilliant to have him on board; he‘s been absolutely brilliant for me since I’ve been in charge. 

“A real good day-to-day coach, he’s clear in his messages. He’s a top coach with lots of experience around this area, so I’m buzzing to have him involved.”