Here's how our Pools writer rated the players following a miserable evening in Northamptonshire - do you agree?
1. Brad Young: 8
One of very few who can hold his head up high. Made two superb saves in quick succession just after Pools had taken the lead, denying both Morgan Roberts and Danny Newton, but needed some help from his defenders as Roberts reacted quickest to draw the Saints level. One excellent punch in the first half when he was surrounded by Brackley bodies and another good claim after the break. Might have been a bit disappointed that he failed to take charge of his area prior to the third goal and seemed to lose his confidence a bit, slipping when attempting a clearance late on but getting out of jail after the Brackley frontman also lost his footing. A tough night for Pools, but could have been much worse had it not been for Young. Photo: Frank Reid
2. Dan Dodds: 6
Squandered two good chances when bearing down on goal. Forced a strong save from Maxted with his first effort before failing to find a Pools shirt with his ball back across the face the next time he found himself in a promising position. Might have been disappointed he didn't make more of the opportunities but deserves credit for getting into dangerous areas in the first place and Brackley didn't seem to know how to deal with his marauding forward runs. One important defensive intervention in the first half, although he found things more difficult after the break as the home side committed more bodies forward. By far his side's best defender on the night. Photo: Frank Reid
3. Billy Sass-Davies: 4
Almost cost his side in the opening exchanges when he powered over the halfway line but seemed to panic and gave the ball straight to Brackley, who counter-attacked dangerously. It was at least good to see him try to bring the ball out from the back, even if he rarely looked comfortable in possession. The defence was stretched all evening, although he can't have benefitted from being in and out of the side in recent weeks when his performances have been deserving of a more regular place. Missed a header from close range, similar to a chance he squandered against Woking in August, and will be disappointed not to have scored. Photo: FRANK REID
4. Tom Parkes: 4
Distribution was woeful and defending wasn't much better. Seemed to let his head drop after Brackley went ahead and spent far too much time squabbling with Saints frontman Danny Newton. Wore the captain's armband but did not lead the team. Photo: Frank Reid