Hartlepool have made improvements under manager John Askey but they are yet to win a game under the new boss having drawn five successive fixtures.
It’s a run which now sees Pools in the bottom two – five points from safety behind both Crawley Town and Colchester United, with Harrogate Town a further point in front.
Pools are six points ahead of Rochdale, who look resigned to relegation to the National League, as the other four teams continue to battle it out to remain in League Two.
And with Crawley having played their final game in hand over Pools in their 1-1 draw with Grimsby Town, here we look at the relegation run-in, who is likely to make an impact and the key fixture remaining for all five teams at the bottom of the table.
5. Hartlepool United key player - Dan Kemp
Kemp has been a revelation for Hartlepool since joining on loan from MK Dons with six goals and one assist in 10 appearances. The midfielder has made a big impact and his form is likely to be key to Pools' survival hopes. (Photo: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
6. Hartlepool United key fixture - April 22 v Crawley Town
The obvious fixture to look at is the home clash with Crawley Town. Being a direct opponent it could be an opportunity for Pools to swing the momentum in their favour. It could be a make or break fixture. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
7. Crawley Town run-in
Mansfield Town (A), Bradford City (H), Barrow (A), Tranmere Rovers (H), Colchester United (H), Hartlepool United (A), Walsall (H), Swindon Town (A). (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images) Photo: Pete Norton
8. Crawley Town key player - Dom Telford
Telford has scored 12 goals in all competitions this season following his surprise move to the Broadfield Stadium in the summer. Last season's top scorer has found the net in each of his last two appearances and will be tasked with firing Crawley to safety. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Photo: Alex Livesey