Libbie Trainor scored a brilliant hat-trick as Hartlepool United Women maintained their impressive form under Gareth Horwood with a 4-2 win over Gateshead in their NERWFL six-pointer.

Zara Johnson was also on the mark at Gateshead International Stadium as Pools moved three points above the drop zone in the Northern Division.

Pools face another vital contest a week on Sunday when they host Consett Ladies, who are also on 18 points, though their rivals have two games in hand.

Horwood was delighted with the display of his side, who showed character and skill to come back after conceding an early goal.

“This performance once again proved that our squad is more than capable of putting in the hard yards to get the win,” he said.

“It was a tough challenge, but one we rose to.

“This team has serious potential, week-in, week-out you see more from them.

“Giving out personal praise is always great, but the squad as a whole deserves the accolades and credit.”

Gateshead and Pools started Sunday level on 15 points and a change in head coach for the Heed last week meant it was never going to be an easy task.

A new manager often brings renewed energy and enthusiasm and so it proved for the hosts who went in front on six minutes.

Pools settled into the game, exploiting the space left behind by Gateshead’s full-backs down the flanks.

This tactical awareness led to two well-worked goals inside four minutes, first from Johnson and then Trainor on the half-hour.

After the interval, Pools managed possession better, creating multiple chances.

They converted two, Trainor getting them both in a four-minute purple patch to complete an excellent treble.

Gateshead pulled one back and while the sky blues could have scored more, the game finished 4-2.

Trainor may have captured the headlines, but player of the match went to Toni Upton, who was making a welcome return from a long-term ACL injury.

“Our key message going into the game was clear: expect pressure, be prepared for a battle, and win our individual duels,” said Horwood.

“We struggled to impose ourselves early on and conceded within the first 10 minutes.

“But once we settled and adjusted to the patterns of play, the team began to grow into the game.

“After the break, we aimed for more control and managing possession better.

“We could have added to our tally, but we deserved the victory, though it was by no means an easy one.”