Hartlepool United return to the Suit Direct Stadium on Tuesday evening as Doncaster Rovers come to town. After Friday night’s thrilling draw with Mansfield, Keith Curle’s side will hope that momentum and renewed hope will push Pools to a vital three points.
The Opposition
Doncaster sit eighth in League Two after winning six times in their opening 11 games. Their last five league results include two wins and three defeats, overcoming Rochdale and Crawley in their two most recent games. Led by manager Gary McSheffrey, the Rovers side features Pools connections in Jonny Mitchell and Luke Molyneux, as well as Teesside connections in Adam Clayton and Lee Tomlin, both former Middlesbrough players.
The History
This will be the 102nd meeting between the sides and the first since 2017. Previously, Pools have won 35 times, Rovers have won 38 times, and 28 matches have ended in a draw. The last match between the sides was historic. Title-chasing Doncaster came to Pools needing a win to seal the title, while Pools needed a win and results to go their way to stay in the league. Despite Devante Rodney’s brace sparking bedlam, a late Newport goal saw Pools relegated to the National League, dropping out of the Football League for the first time in their history.
Team News
Competition for places is hot under Keith Curle, as shown by Josh Umerah’s initial omission on Friday evening. The forward answered with two goals after his introduction, so it’ll be up to the manager as to who starts up front on Tuesday night. Jamie Sterry and Nicky Featherstone continue their recoveries from injury, while others will face a late fitness test ahead of the game.
How to Follow
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