But after an upturn in form in 2020, can Dave Challinor’s side put together a run that will see them mount a serious play-off challenge for the first time in the National League?
Bet Victor are offering odds for 16 different National League sides on their chances of securing a top-seven finish in the fifth tier.
Scroll down and click through the pages to see where Pools sit in the bookies' standings and who they are tipping for a play-off place...
1. Wrexham - 50/1
A team who made the play-offs last season but have been struggling this time out. The Dragons sit 17th in the table and nine points off the top seven. Photo: Lewis Storey
2. Aldershot Town - 50/1
The Shots have made the play-offs in two of the last three seasons before being reprieved from relegation last May. Aldershot sit just above Wrexham in 16th and eight points off the play-offs. Photo: Paul Paxford
3. Eastleigh - 33/1
Another side who competed in the play-offs last season but haven't been quite as competitive at the right end of the table this season. The Spitfires are 18th and nine points off the play-off positions with 12 games left to play. Photo: Nathan Stirk
4. Sutton United - 12/1
The U's surged up the table following a strong run of form. Despite their results dipping in recent weeks, they sit 15th and eight points off the top seven. Photo: Harriet Lander