Following last weekend’s draw at Morecambe, Hartlepool United Academy played their first home game on Saturday, ending in a 2-1 defeat to Notts County in the EFL Youth Alliance.

The visitors took the lead on the half-hour mark but Pools pegged level before the break as Ashton Wood’s corner was slammed home by Kian Foreman at the back post.

However just moments later, the tables turned on Pools as Alex Pavan was shown a second yellow card to reduce Ian McGuckin’s side down to 10 men.

Despite having the disadvantage, Pools continued to push forward in the second half as Foreman saw two chances go agonisingly close.

However with minutes to go, Notts County found a dramatic late winner to take all three points.

“I was really proud of the lads’ effort and character, especially when we were reduced to 10 men,” stated McGuckin at full time.

“They showed great fighting spirit and unfortunately we fell just short.

“We’ve got to take the positives though, performance-wise we’ve had a good start to the season and it’s a platform to build on.”

Our Academy side next face Doncaster Rovers on Saturday morning in cup action, with a 11am kick-off at Blackhall.