Pools could hardly have picked a more difficult opponent to follow in the wake of their 7-1 humbling at the hands of rivals Gateshead on Tuesday, their heaviest defeat in 28 years.
Halifax arrive in the North East on a run of seven wins from their last eight, including a 4-2 victory over champions Chesterfield last time out, and have played themselves into play-off contention.
However Kevin Phillips and his side can’t afford to feel sorry for themselves; with just five points separating Pools and the National League relegation zone, another defeat could move them within touching distance of the drop.
So, here are five things Pools could do to help them bounce back.
However Kevin Phillips and his side can’t afford to feel sorry for themselves; with just five points separating Pools and the National League relegation zone, another defeat could move them within touching distance of the drop.