Darren Sarll visits his former stomping ground on Saturday afternoon as Pools open the National League season away to Yeovil Town. 

The fixture, which is Hartlepool’s longest trip of the season, sees Sarll take to the Pools dugout for the first time in a competitive game.

Sarll spent nearly three years at Huish Park, having joined Yeovil in June 2019 and guiding the Glovers into the National League play-offs.

The fixture will also see Adam Smith, Tom Parkes, Billy Sass-Davies and assistant manager Carl Dickinson return to their former home.

Yeovil won the National League South title last season under Mark Cooper’s guidance, having been relegated from the National League in April 2023.

From The Gaffer

“I have a connection with the area,” stated Pools manager Darren Sarll.

“My daughter was born there and it was a big part of my managerial career – we had some tough circumstances with losing a loved player and friend.

“I have a good connection with their supporters because we came close, as much as I want to have a good connection with the Hartlepool fans.

“I’m desperate to build that connection between the fans and the players here because that’s magic.

“It feels like life or death to win, and hopefully we can get off to a really good start.”

Last Meeting

It’s been three years since the Glovers last took on Pools, with Dave Challinor’s outfit claiming a 2-1 win in February 2021.

Yeovil took the lead before the hour mark through Dom Knowles, though Luke Armstrong quickly equalised at Victoria Park.

Gavan Holohan with a last-minute goal saw the three points remain in the North East.

Team News

Darren Sarll confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Anthony Mancini and Greg Sloggett will be doubtful for the fixture.

Kieran Wallace is meanwhile continuing light training, and is expected to return to full training in the next fortnight.

How To Watch

The game will be streamed live on National League TV, with match passes priced at £9.99. Click here for more information.

Ticketing details can also be found here for supporters travelling to Huish Park.