It may be early days but John Askey’s side have made a fine start to the 2023-24 campaign and they demonstrated that further with a second successive 3-1 victory on home soil.
After a fairly even opening, Pools stepped up a gear to race into a two-goal lead thanks to Emmanuel Dieseruvwe’s header and Callum Cooke’s first goal of the season.
Askey’s side were a threat every time they came forward and might have added to their lead before being hit with a late sucker-punch on the stroke of half-time as Gold Omotayo reduced the deficit when his strike found a way through Joel Dixon.
But Pools weren’t to be denied as Dieseruvwe added his second of the game early in the second half as Askey’s men hit top stop.
And here is how Pools were rated:
1. Joel Dixon - 6
Will be disappointed not to keep Omotayo’s effort out despite the power generated in the strike. Dealt with most other things reasonably well. Photo: FRANK REID NATIONALWORLD 2022
2. Charlie Seaman - 7
Efficient display down the right. Saw what he’s all about again with another couple of brilliant driving runs infield. Smart ball into Wreh which led to Cooke’s goal. Tireless shift. Photo: FRANK REID 2022
3. Dan Dodds - 8
Excellent display at both ends. Brilliant run beating three or four defenders before seeing an effort blocked. Showed great pace to cover up against Omotayo defensively and was involved throughout. Showed a good range of passing. Key role in the third. Took a knock late on but was able to carry on. Photo: FRANK REID NATIONALWORLD 2022
4. Emmanuel Onariase - 7
A loose clearance prior to Fylde’s goal but was otherwise assured and dominated defensively in the second half. Showed a calm head. Close when heading off target in the first half. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: Frank Reid