John Askey's side are in action at The Suit Direct Stadium for the first time this season as they face Gateshead in the Vanarama National League on Saturday afternoon (3pm kick-off).
The Lowdown
Pools are hoping to get their first win of the season after, despite a strong finish to the game, an opening day defeat at Barnet last weekend.
Making the 30-mile trip, Gateshead will bring three familiar faces to The Suit Direct in the form of Kenton Richardson, Marcus Dinanga and Carl Magnay.
The Heed, managed by former Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson, were forced to settle for a point last time out after Boreham Wood came back from two goals behind.
Last season, Williamson guided Gateshead to 14th place as well as claiming a spot in the Isuzu FA Trophy Final at Wembley where they lost to Halifax.
The Manager
"It will be a tough game," stated Hartlepool manager John Askey.
"Gateshead are a good footballing team and can cause real problems. Sometimes you can become impatient because of how they keep the ball but we've just got to focus on ourselves."
Click here to watch Askey's full pre-match interview.
The History
The last time both sides met competitively was on New Year's Day in 2019. A Paddy McLaughlin effort on 66 minutes meant Pools ran out 2-1 winners on home turf.
The previous season, in 2017/18, there were two thrilling draws which both finished 2-2.
Team News
Mani Dieseruvwe will be eligble to make his competitve debut for Hartlepool, having been suspended last weekend.
Joe Grey will be subject to a late fitness test after an ankle injury. Oliver Finney will also be assessed after recovering from an achilles problem.
Kieran Wallace remains unavailable with a broken toe.
Supporter Information
Important information on Saturday's game, including ticketing details and opening times, can be found by clicking here.