Hartlepool United Football Club

Dave Challinor admitted that he was embarrassed by the

performance of his team as they were beaten 4-1 at Harrogate Town on Boxing

Day.

Pools had gone in goalless at the break but conceded three

goals in a chaotic 14-minute period in the second half to hand the initiative

to their hosts and give themselves a mountain to climb.

Challinor apologised to supporters and insisted that the

manner in which they backed the team in such large numbers made him even more

determined to build a team to make them proud.

“I've been in the game long enough to recognise signs and Idon't think we were at it first half,” Challinor told Pools TV.

“We knew what the game would be and we knew we would have to

press them and work hard but even though we got in at half-time level, I knew

we needed to improve.

“In the second half we certainly didn't do that and we were beaten by the better team. We were out-worked and we were out-battled.

“It looked to me like there were instances where they wantedit that little bit more than us, which is completely unacceptable.

“I feel gutted for the fans who gave up their hard-earned money

and time to come and watch us because for them to be singing the way they did

and create that atmosphere makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

“Today is a disappointing day. I am charged with the job of getting them a team they can relate to and be proud of but I am embarrassed today and the players should be too so I can only apologise.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AynaCZP8t5Q