Pools fell to a 1-0 defeat in South London as Sutton claimed all three points.
A first half that saw Sutton dominate throughout. The hosts continued to create chances from the get go and Pools were unable to keep a hold of the ball.
Ben Killip was called into action continuously as Ajiboye tested the Pools defence with balls into the area every time he picked up the ball on the right hand side.
All the pressure from Sutton was too much for Dave Challinors side as on 25 minutes, the corner ball came in, dropped at the backpost and Ben Goodliffe was able to tap home to put the hosts ahead.
This seemed to give Pools a little wake up call as five minutes later, they enjoyed their best spell of possession, passing around the attacking third. Nicky Featherstone picked up the ball on the left hand side but his cross into the box was not met by a man in red and black to turn home.
Five minutes before time, Pools had their best opportunity of the game. Featherstone’s corner ball landed right onto the head of Odusina whos strong effort was cleared off the line by the goal scorer Goodliffe to deny Pools drawing level.
The second half started a little brighter for Pools.
Pools made a double change shortly after the second half started with Fela and Ferguson entering the fray. Pools certainly looked brighter with Ferguson delivering balls in from the left hand side.
With five minutes to go, Pools thought they were level. Ferguson delivered the ball and Fela’s strong header was unbelievably saved by Bouzanis.
Just two minutes later, Sterry found himself in the area winning the a header and it went agonisingly close.
Despite Pools’ late efforts, it wasn’t enough to deny Sutton taking all three points.
#Pools XI to face Sutton: Killip; Francis-Angol, Odusina (Ferguson), Liddle, Byrne, Sterry; Featherstone, Smith (Olufela Olomola) ; Daly, Molyneux, Goodwin (Cullen)
Yellow cards: Featherstone, Byrne, Cullen