Despite John Askey’s side shading things at Meadow Park they return to the North East empty-handed after Lee Ndlovu’s strike 12 minutes from time.
Hartlepool boss Askey was left frustrated by the decision to allow Ndlovu’s goal for what he deemed a foul on loan defender Zak Johnson before Ndlovu was able to advance into the area and finish well.
But their protests fell on deaf ears as the home side edged a close contest.
Pools had chances – Wood goalkeeper Nathan Ashmore in terrific form to deny a number of efforts from the visitors who also hit the bar in the closing stages.
Defeat means Hartlepool have now lost three straight games in the National League and are without a goal in all three.
And here is how Pools were rated on an unfortunate night in Hertfordshire.
But their protests fell on deaf ears as the home side edged a close contest.