In what was billed as a must win for John Askey's side, Hartlepool fell way short of what was necessary as Crawley eased to a 2-0 success at the Suit Direct Stadium to hammer what is pretty much the final nail in Hartlepool’s Football League coffin.
Dom Telford scored twice, once in the first half and again in the second, as Pools continued to look out of sorts following back-to-back defeats away from home.
Telford headed in from close range five minutes before half-time to give Crawley a deserved lead before he picked up a route one goal kick from Crawley goalkeeper Corey Addai to touch and finish shortly after the hour mark.
Pools were unable to muster up a response as they limped to a third straight 2-0 defeat and a one which will likely see them in the National League next season.
5. Edon Pruti - 3
Looked nervous all afternoon until he was subbed. Crawley targeted him and got some joy. Poor control almost put his team in trouble in the first half. Booked for a rash challenge on Nadesan. Pulled out of position which led to an overload for Crawley's opener. Like Dodds, it has been a challenging time for him lately alongside differing partners with inexperience playing its part. (Photo: Michael Driver | MI News) Photo: Michael Driver
6. David Ferguson - 5
One of few who seemed up for the challenge. Couple of decent crosses into the box in the first half helped Hartlepool get something of a foothold in the game. Showed good desire when chasing down Tilley in the second half. Could see what the reality of defeat meant to him at full-time. (Photo: Michael Driver | MI News) Photo: Michael Driver
7. Mo Sylla - 6
Was the first one to really put in a challenge in the first half as Crawley had settled much the better of the two sides. Crunching tackle on Gladwin soon after garnered a response from the crowd. Close with a header. Drifted at times in the second half but one of few okay performances. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
8. Callum Cooke - 4
Didn’t happen for him. Looked leggy in midfield. Lost possession inside his own half in the first half which led to an opening for Crawley. Close when hitting the side netting but wasted two really good opportunities on half-time, one with a poor finish and the other with a heavy touch. Did keep getting into the areas, at least. Cut a very frustrated figure. Subbed. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher