Pools fell to a 2–0 defeat away from home to Birtley Town despite producing a resilient and disciplined performance.

The hosts started brightly and dominated possession in the early stages, but Pools remained compact and well organised, limiting Birtley’s chances while posing a threat on the counterattack.

Pools’ best opportunity of the half came from a set piece, which was struck narrowly wide of the target.

Birtley took the lead in the 36th minute after a brief stoppage in play, with Pools momentarily switching off and allowing the opposition to break forward and find the opener.

Despite going into half-time 1–0 down, there were plenty of positives to take from Pools’ first-half display.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Birtley controlling possession and Pools continuing to defend resolutely.

The hosts doubled their advantage in the 50th minute with a well-struck effort from a wide area.

Despite continued pressing and a number of counter-attacking opportunities, Pools were unable to find a breakthrough.