Hartlepool United get their Carabao Cup campaign underway on Wednesday as they take on Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park. The sides met in pre-season, but this will be a different test to the side Pools played that day.
The Opposition
Based in Lancashire, Rovers have a long history of playing at the top of the football pyramid, winning the Premier League in 1995 and the League Cup in 2002. Currently led by former AC Milan and Newcastle United striker Jon Dahl Tomasson, Rovers have their eyes set on promotion this coming season.
They’ve started the season with two wins, defeating Swansea and QPR to put them top of the pile in the Championship, albeit with a long way to go.
The History
In competitive fixtures, Pools are unbeaten against Blackburn, though both previous fixtures were in 1974. The Pools side, led by Ken Hale, drew 1-1 at The Victoria Ground after Malcolm Moore’s goal, and the side were 2-1 victors in the reverse fixture thanks to strikes from George Potter and Kevin McMahon.
Tickets
Pools fans can continue to purchase tickets via the club wesbite or in-store. Tickets will be available on the day from the Blackburn ticket office. Purchase now here.
How to follow
If you can't make it to Ewood Park. You can listen to full match commentary live on Pools iFollow for £2.50. Purchase your audio pass here.