Hartlepool United manager Dave Challinor delighted to reach FA Cup third round for the first time following 1-0 win over Exeter City and delivers update on Luke James injury

Hartlepool United manager Dave Challinor during the Vanarama National League match between Woking and Hartlepool United at the Kingfield Stadium, Woking on Saturday 7th December 2019. (Credit: Paul Paxford | MI News)

Josh Hawkes’ extra-time strike secured a 1-0 win and Pools’ place in the FA Cup third round for the first time since 2016.

It’s also the first time Challinor has reached the stage as manager as he said: “I’m delighted to win, it’s massive for the club, great for the players, good for myself to get to the first round for the first time and hopefully it will be a good way to start 2020.

“It was a great night that hopefully we can replicate over future.”

On Luke James’ injury the Pools boss added: “We hope Luke isn’t too bad with his groin, first thoughts are it may be more serious than not.

“We’ll get it scanned and see how he is. He’s been great and offers so much to the team so fingers crossed it’s fine.”