Hartlepool United captain Ryan Donaldson discusses how players and staff raised £200 to donate to the North West Corner fans' appeal

The North West corner appealed for donations to help take their support ‘to the next level’ and further improve the atmosphere at Victoria Park.

Following Saturday’s defeat to Ebbsfleet United, Pools manager Dave Challinor announced that the players and staff would be donating £200 with Donaldson providing some extra insight into how the money was raised.

“We saw it on Twitter last week that the fans were raising money,” said the Pools captain. “We have this little fine kitty and the gaffer asked us how much is in it and that we should put it towards something good.

“I know some have contributed a lot more than others with the fines! The fans help us a lot so it’s just a tiny little gesture and the gaffer thought it was important and we agreed with it so it’s nice when we’re able to help out however we can and give something back.”

Pools travel to Sutton United this weekend as they look to get their play-off push back on track.

“It’s another big game,” Donaldson added. “We haven’t got many games left and it’s going to be tough.

“We haven’t played them since the opening day so we’ll have to do some work and see what they’re about.

“We’ve lifted our spirits after Saturday and we’re going there for three points because we know we need a good few wins between now and the end of the season.”