Danger men, form and expectations: The inside track on Maidenhead United ahead of Hartlepool United's match

While Pools arrive at York Road with two wins from two this season, Maidenhead still seek their first point.

Challion’s men have seen off Aldershot and Chesterfield while Maidenhead were beaten 3-0 at Sutton United on the season’s opening day, and then lost 3-2 at home to newly-promoted King’s Lynn Town, despite leading twice.

The Magpies failed to see off Pools at York Road last season, as Niko Muir scored the only goal of the game, and ended the curtailed season in 21st place, based on points per game.

While optimism is understandably high at Victoria Park, Maidenhead Advertiser reporter Daniel Darlington (yes, really – although no link to the Quakers) admits the Magpies’ sights are set quite low.

“Survival always looks to be the aim for Maidenhead in the National League until they’re in a position where they can generate more funds and move to be a full-time, professional side,” said Darlington.

But with a player like Sam Barratt in their ranks, and Maidenhead having done plenty of transfer business in the close season, looks could be deceptive.

“I think [manager] Alan Devonshire believes he’s got a lot of talent his disposal and, if he can get the best from them, there’s no reason to think they couldn’t surprise people and push for a top-half finish,” Darlington added.

“There have been around seven departures, including some key players such as Danny Whitehall who signed for Kilmarnock, and defender Joseph Ellul.

“However, he [Devonshire] has managed to bring in replacements for all positions and now it’s just a case of seeing how well the side blends together.”

Barratt is back at Maidenhead after a spell in the Football League with Southend United earned off the back of a stellar 2017-18 season in the National League.

Barratt, who scored twice from the penalty spot against King’s Lynn, produced 14 leagues goals or assists three seasons ago, and is highly regarded by Darlington (the reporter).

Others to look out for include homegrown talent Josh Kelly and summer signing Danilo Orsi-Dadomo, the latter being fine form in pre-season but since limited to a bench role due to injury.

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