Alex Curl hailed Hartlepool United Women’s “exceptional” character despite seeing his side lose 5-1 at home to Wallsend Boys Club Women on Sunday

Pools got off to a disastrous start at Metcalfe Park, where they conceded twice, but fought all the way to the end.

“It’s always difficult when you start a game with two mistakes and you’re punished for them,” said Curl.

“But that’s what happens at this level. And after that, the gameplan goes out the window.

“The character and fight showed from the team from the fifth minute was exceptional.

“In my opinion we were the better team from that moment, especially in the first half.”

Wallsend added a third goal in the 25th minute but Pools created numerous chances, only to convert just one of those when Libbie Trainor netted on 41 minutes.

Such was their football, the hosts could have easily been level at half-time instead of being two goals down.

The second half began badly when Pools conceded a fourth immediately, but it proved a much more even game.

Both teams found their rhythm in possession but it was Wallsend who were clinical in front of goal, adding a fifth 20 minutes from time.

“Results like these are the hardest to take as the performance deserved much more,” added Curl.

“There’s lots of work to do in midweek as we prepare to face Bishop Auckland next Sunday.”

Image: Michael Ibbotson