NOW WE’VE GOT HART AND SOUL
HARTLEPOOL United manager Matthew Bates has hailed the Victoria Park faithful for their support as he looks to get the club back into the Football League.
Pools endured a challenging first season in the National League as they flirted with relegation before finishing the campaign in 15th place, eight points clear of the drop zone.
Despite a turbulent season on and off the pitch, the club were backed by their supporters and ended the season with an average home attendance of just under 3,500.
Things are now looking up for Bates and his side after a busy summer in the transfer market.
New signings Niko Muir, Liam Noble and Peter Kioso have hit the ground running and Pools are now looking like genuine play-off challengers.
Challenges
Bates is keen to continue their impressive form and reward the supporters for their backing throughout a difficult time in the club’s history.
“It’s simple for us – if it wasn’t for our supporters we wouldn’t have a club here,” explained the Pools manager. “People don’t realise that.
“You look at the Wrexham game last season, when things looked really bad for the club. They got behind us, they came out in their numbers and there was just under 7,000 supporters inside Victoria Park.
“It was a difficult time for the club and we didn’t know how long we had left in business.
“They have to realise that their support brings investors to the table.
“When a potential investor is looking at the club and they see that support, suddenly the investment becomes more viable.
“The club belongs to the fans. Hopefully we can reward them with more good performances.”
There is a fresh look about Hartlepool United this season after their takeover by local businessman Raj Singh in April.
Going into yesterday’s away game against FC Halifax Town, Bates’ side had lost just one of their first 11 games of the season.
They face a challenging week, with an away game at Salford City on Tuesday quickly followed by Saturday’s home game against Aldershot Town.
The mood is positive but Bates urged his side to stay focused as they try to challenge for a return to the Football League.
“We need to remember we are still in the early days of the season and it’s really boring to say this but we will take things game-by-game, week-byweek,” Bates added.
“There will be more ups and downs to come but we are ready to take on whatever challenges are put towards us.”