Hartlepool United Women made it back-to-back victories on Sunday afternoon as Andy Stuart and Gareth Horwood’s side continued to battle against relegation.

Pools, sitting second-bottom, travelled to Chester le Street Amazons who started the day three places higher.

The visitors started with intent, coming close on several occasions before Zara Johnson picked out Libbie Trainor to open the scoring on 35 minutes.

There was a chance to double that lead five minutes later when Evie Smith was fouled in the box, only for the home goalkeeper to make a fine save from the spot kick.

The second half was a narrow contest, but Pools were awarded a second penalty with 82 on the clock when Abi Cope went down.

New signing Linsey Mochan stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way, bagging her first goal in Hartlepool colours.

Pools goalkeeper Ella Field stayed strong to keep hold of her clean sheet as the referee blew time on a 2-0 victory for Pools.

“It was a fine display from the women,” stated Andy Stuart.

“A strong performance against a competitive Amazons team and a fantastic result to show for it.

“It shows the progression the team is making and the back-to-back victories mean we can carry some momentum into a tough few weeks.”

Pools Women now move up to eighth in the table, three places above the relegation zone, and travel to third-placed i2i Academy on Sunday.