Donaldson looking for a better year with Hartlepool

Ryan Donaldson celebrates his goal for Pools on Saturday.

Donaldson scored Pools’ only goal as they were held to a draw by relegated Torquay United at Victoria Park on Saturday.

Having returned from injury in the new year, Donaldson states his aim is now to move forward for the next campaign.

“You just need to get your foot down - I knew I was touch and go until the new year but for now I’m just enjoying it and playing on adrenaline really,” he said.

“Today, the second half, it wasn’t good. Tuesday night was great to be a part of, but for me it’s about growing and moving forward into the new season.”

The Geordie revealed the hardships of his injury.

“The worst part is not playing, the week leading up to a game, that’s what you usually look forward too. Sitting in the stand watching - it’s terrible. That’s the hardest part for me,” said the 26-year-old.

Donaldson admitted his side were far from their best against the Gulls, saying: “They got the goal and we just hung on, it’s disappointing when you’ve had the lead for so long but we didn’t play great.”

Pools’ keeper Scott Loach was the man of the match and Donaldson praised his performance.

“He’s been great, he’s made wonderful saves all season and hasn’t got as many clean sheets as he deserves,” he said. “We haven’t protected him enough.

“He deserved another clean sheet today.”