John Askey’s side came from a goal down to seal a 3-1 win over Barrow at the Suit Direct Stadium but it was a day which would still end up in disappointment as Crawley Town’s goalless draw with Walsall confirmed their relegation.
Ged Garner gave Barrow the lead when converting from Josh Gordon’s low cross before Jack Hamilton levelled things for Hartlepool three minutes before the break.
Jamie Sterry completed the turnaround when his in-swinging cross evaded everybody in the penalty area before bouncing through to beat Paul Farman in the Barrow goal.
The Bluebirds saw Harrison Neal sent off for a second bookable offence after he lunged in on David Ferguson before Connor Jennings added a third for Pools in stoppage time.
Patrick Brough would also see red but, despite their win, Hartlepool were relegated.
Here’s how they were rated:
9. Callum Cooke - 7
Felt like it might have been another frustrating afternoon for him initially after being crowded out a little and one loose ball back to Dodds which caused his team problems. Very good in the second half though and drove Hartlepool forward. Unlucky when curling wide and when hitting the bar. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
10. Connor Jennings - 7
Started brightly and had a chance with a header. Involved in the build up for the opening goal and was the target for Sterry’s cross for the second. Endeavour earned his goal late on with a nice finish. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
11. Jack Hamilton - 7
Took his goal really well first time of asking. Had found things a little bit of a challenge up until that point and picked up a frustrated booking. Missed a good chance in the second half from Cooke’s corner but gave the Barrow defence enough to think about most of the afternoon. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
12. Josh Umerah - NA
Came on for the final few minutes at 2-1 to help see the game through. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher