Hartlepool United will finish their pre-season fixtures with a north-east derby as newly promoted Sunderland come to the Suit Direct.
On Monday 25th July (7pm KO), the Black Cats arrive to test the Pools squad after the euphoria of their play-off final win against Wycombe Wanderers.
The sides last met in a 2018 pre-season game. Niko Muir gave Pools a credible 1-1 draw against a Sunderland side featuring Lee Cattermole and Josh Maja. Pools last won a game against Sunderland in 2012. Steve Howard scored early for Neale Cooper’s side to give them a friendly victory ahead of the 2012-13 season.
A famous FA Cup tie in 2004 was the last competitive clash between the sides, with Pools taking 9109 fans to the Stadium of Light to cheer on Neale Cooper’s side. Julio Arca’s goal saw the Black Cats progress at Pools’ expense, but it’s a day that’s lived long in the memory since.
Ticketing details will be announced in due course.