Hartlepool United return to Enterprise National League action tonight with a trip to face Altrincham at The J. Davidson Stadium (Wednesday 16 September, 7:45pm KO).
The opposition:
Altrincham currently sit in 16th position – one place below Pools and behind only on goal difference following three wins and four losses from their opening seven matches.
The Robins have scored eight and conceded 13 goals in the league so far, with former Pools player Tom Crawford their top scorer, netting three times in six games.
Last time out, the Greater Manchester side suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat away to Woking, which brought a three-game winning streak to an end.
Neil Gibson, who was appointed permanent manager in November 2025 following an interim spell, led Alty to a 13th-placed National League finish last season with 57 points.
Club Information:
Nickname: The Robins
Founded: 1891 (135 years ago)
Ground: The J.Davidson Stadium (Attendance – 5,450)
Chairman: Mark Luby
Last season: National League (13th of 24)
Pools:
Lee Clark’s side fell to a 2-0 loss against Kidderminster Harriers at Aggborough Stadium last Friday night.
The defeat meant Pools were unable to capitalise on a 1-0 home victory over Woking, as a Neo Eccleston own goal and Callum Stewart’s late header secured the three points for the Harriers.
After seven league matches, Clark’s team sit in 15th position, with five goals scored and six conceded – the second-best defensive record in the league behind Aldershot Town (five goals conceded).
Pools are unbeaten in their last four away games against Alty, winning once and drawing on three occasions.
Team news:
Neo Eccleston is suspended following his red card against Kidderminster, while Max Merrick (thigh injury) and Max Kouogun (ankle injury) remain on the sidelines.
Corey McKeown will miss the trip due to an ongoing foot injury, but Cam John is in contention to be involved in the matchday squad following a dead-leg setback.
Owen Hampson and Luke Charman continue to work towards a return to full fitness following long-term injuries.
Last five meetings:
January 2026: Hartlepool United 1-0 Altrincham
August 2025: Altrincham 0-2 Hartlepool United
February 2025: Hartlepool United 1-2 Altrincham
October 2024: Altrincham 1-1 Hartlepool United
February 2024: Hartlepool United 3-2 Altrincham
