'A magnificent finish!': BT Sport pundit hails Hartlepool United star and discuss controversial disallowed Torquay goal

Luke Armstrong’s smart finish on the turn put Dave Challinor’s side in command at the break after Torquay saw an early goal controversially ruled out.

But that didn’t detract much from a fine first-half performance from the North East side, with Armstrong in particular coming in for praise from TV pundits.

Speaking on BT Sport’s coverage of the game former striker Aaron McLean said: “I look at Armstrong and he does all the unselfish work.

"He gets hold of the ball and looks after it really well, occupies defenders and that allows Oates to drop into the holes that he does.

"The way he takes his goal is brilliant. On the swivel, he lifts it as well and that’s what gets him the goal. It’s a magnificent finish.”

Armstrong’s strike came after Kyle Cameron had seen an early header chalked-off for a foul.

While replays suggested it was a soft call, Grant Holt felt the decision was correct.

"I said straight away it was a free-kick,” he said.

"It’s not his man but he sees the two arms out when he tries to get there. I don’t think he gets there, but it is a push.”

But former Torquay captain Chris Hargreaves said: “I think it’s harsh. You see Gary think it’s harsh.”

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