After three wins on the bounce, Hartlepool United welcome Sutton United to the Suit Direct Stadium on Saturday looking to make it four out of four. Tuesday night saw Graeme Lee’s side battle past a solid Tranmere side, and they’ll be full of confidence ahead of this weekend’s clash against the side they were promoted with last term.
The Opposition
Sutton United are currently fifth in League Two, 10 points above Pools. They’ve won 14 of their 31 matches this season, including just one of their previous five. After defeating Carlisle away from home, the U’s have had to settle for draws against Bristol Rovers, Salford, and Forest Green, before being defeated by Bristol in the reverse fixture. The London-based side also join Pools in the semi-finals of the Papa John’s Trophy, facing Wigan Athletic in the other side of the draw.
Led by manager Matt Gray, Sutton retained most of the players that saw them claim the National League title last season, including the influential Harry Beautyman, Omar Bugiel, and Isaac Olaofe. They’ve also added to the firepower they possess, signing former Pools loanee Richie Bennett as another forward option.
The History
This will be just the 10th meeting between the sides, with Pools winning just once against the U’s. That victory came last season, as Rhys Oates’ header saw Dave Challinor’s side defeat Sutton at home. In all, Sutton have won on four occasions and four games have ended in a draw. Earlier this season, Sutton won at the Borough Sports Ground after Ben Goodliffe’s goal.
This will be just the 10th meeting between the sides, with Pools winning just once against the U’s. That victory came last season, as Rhys Oates’ header saw Dave Challinor’s side defeat Sutton at home. In all, Sutton have won on four occasions and four games have ended in a draw. Earlier this season, Sutton won at the Borough Sports Ground after Ben Goodliffe’s goal.
Team News
Nicky Featherstone returned to the starting line-up after his three-match suspension, with Joe White rotated in his place. Graeme Lee will be mindful of fatigue with lots of games coming up, and there are plenty of options for the manager to choose from. Gavan Holohan and Mark Cullen were missing from the matchday squad, but both remain available should they be needed. Recent signing Marcus Carver is also available after returning to the bench on Tuesday evening.
Nicky Featherstone returned to the starting line-up after his three-match suspension, with Joe White rotated in his place. Graeme Lee will be mindful of fatigue with lots of games coming up, and there are plenty of options for the manager to choose from. Gavan Holohan and Mark Cullen were missing from the matchday squad, but both remain available should they be needed. Recent signing Marcus Carver is also available after returning to the bench on Tuesday evening.
How to Follow
If you’re not joining the bumper crowd at the Suit Direct on Saturday, full audio coverage is available via iFollow with special guest, Adam Boyd.
If you’re not joining the bumper crowd at the Suit Direct on Saturday, full audio coverage is available via iFollow with special guest, Adam Boyd.
Purchase your audio pass here: https://www.hartlepoolunited.co.uk/matches/fixtures/first-team/202122/february/hartlepool-united-vs-sutton-united-on-19-feb-22/
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