Hartlepool United manager Dave Challinor wary of Stockport County's new look forward line ahead of Victoria Park clash

Stockport won the previous meeting between the sides 2-1 back in October in what proved to be Craig Hignett’s final match in charge of Pools.

And Challinor believes it could be another tough game for his side this time around as well.

“We expect a tough game as we do every game,” he said.

“I expect a really good atmosphere, it’s two clubs that find themselves at a level that they’ve been a lot higher than before with big and passionate fan bases for both sides.

“I expect it’ll be a bouncing atmosphere and hopefully an exciting game.

“From our perspective we’ll look after us and hopefully we can get three points and then all of a sudden those two away points that we have won recently will look a whole lot better.”

Stockport currently sit eighth in the National League, five points clear of Hartlepool in 11th but the visitors have went through a period of change recently with players coming in and out.

“They’re in a position in the league where we’d love to be but losing the likes of Devante Rodney and Tom Walker was a blow for them,” said Challinor.

“They were probably a big part of putting the run together that’s got them into the play off places.

“They’ve brought in a new front three with Jordan Archer and Danny Lloyd in the last few days so that will make them a lot more focused on the top end of the pitch.”

New signing Aidan Keena made his debut in the 2-2 draw against Yeovil and is looking for his first goal for the club since he made the move from Hearts.

“Obviously he’s scored goals in the Scottish Championship which is pretty equivalent to where we are at,” Challinor added.“As with any forward he just wants to get his first goal, didn’t get it on Saturday but hopefully he has a chance to get it this Saturday and I think when he does, that will settle him down.”