With just two pre-season games remaining, Hartlepool United travel to Blyth looking to find the same rhythm and level of performance that saw them promoted from the National League last month. 7pm kick-off.
The Opposition
Blyth come into the fixture following a longer pre-season than Pools, and this is their fourth match of an eight-game run. So far, Spartans have defeated a Middlesbrough XI and North Shields, while they've tasted defeat just once, a 2-1 defeat to South Shields.
The management duo is well-known to Pools fans. Michael Nelson is Blyth's manager and he is ably assisted by former Pools captain Micky Barron. After taking on the role on a temporary basis, Nelson was appointed the full-time manager in May 2020. Nicky Deverdics is also a familiar name at Pools. The left-footed midfielder is best remember for a scorching free-kick against Tranmere in 2017.
The History
This will be the 17th meeting between the two sides. In the past, Blyth have the edge. In competitive fixtures, each team has won two games apiece and three matches have ended in a draw. In friendlies, Pools have won once, lost four times, and been held to a draw on four occasions. Most recently, Pools drew 2-2 with Tuesday's hosts after goals from David Ferguson and David Parkhouse.
Team News
New man Fela Olomola made his official debut for the club on Saturday and will be in line to start again. He's the only senior striker in the side, with Joe Grey still returning to fitness and two trialists also likely to be involved, including Trialist #9 from the fixture with Spennymoor. Youth team striker Harry Close was involved against Gateshead, and could be utilised again.
Watch, Listen, and Follow
There is no live stream available for the game, but Mixlr commentary will be broadcast as usual with Alex Chandy and Adam Boyd. Twitter will also post live updates from the match.
https://mixlr.com/hartlepool-united/
Information for Fans
As per the Blyth Spartans Official Site:
"To buy your tickets, please click here to access our online portal.
Once purchased, you will receive an email with your e-ticket attached. This can either be printed or stored on your phone.
You MUST bring either of these with you on the day of the game. Failure to show proof of purchase means we cannot permit you into Croft Park.
Staff on the turnstiles will scan the QR code displayed on your ticket to permit entry on match day.
If you do not have online access, you can purchase your ticket by ringing the club office 01670 352373 between 9am and 12pm Monday to Friday, and pay with a debit or credit card. Your ticket can then be collected from the social club on match day.
Depending on availability, the plan is to operate a cash turnstile as normal, though we strongly encourage all supporters to purchase tickets in advance."