After last week’s morale-boosting win over Eastleigh, Hartlepool United turn their attention to the Emirates FA Cup as Chester head to the Suit Direct Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off).
The Lowdown
Pools come into the fixture in good spirits after a 3-1 win over Eastleigh last time out. The result leaves them in seventh, the final play-off place. After several players returning to full fitness, John Askey's side now looking to recapture the early promise that saw them briefly top to the table.
Chester compete in the National League North, one division below Pools. Calum McIntryre is at the helm and his side are currently 14th after 11 games, despite a third-place finish last season. They've already defeated Tadcaster Albion and Nantwich Town in the Emirates FA Cup this year.
Tom Crawford played for his hometown team Chester during the 2017/18 season, making 17 appearances and scoring once.
Should Saturday's fixture end in a draw, the game will be replayed at Chester's Deva Stadium on Tuesday night.
The History
The sides have met just twice previously, with both matches ending in a 1-1 draw. Crawford played for Chester during the away fixture as Michael Woods' goal secured the draw. At home, Jake Cassidy scored for Pools.
Team News
There are no changes to team availability following Saturday's victory. Kieran Wallace, Dan Dodds, Anthony Mancini and Callum Cooke are ruled out due to injury.
How to Follow
Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office in the lead up to kick-off.
If you're not joining us at the Suit Direct, you can watch the action on live stream for £7 by clicking here.
