Chris Popov got the only goal of the game as Hartlepool United claimed a 1-0 home win against National League rivals Woking on Saturday afternoon.

Chris Popov is determined to improve after the Hartlepool United forward netted his first goal for the club in Saturday’s home win against Woking.

The former Morecambe loan star impressed throughout Pools’ preparations for the new National League season - but he failed to find the net in their first five competitive games of the campaign. However, that all changed 11 minutes into the second-half in Saturday’s victory against the Cards as Popov made the most of some neat approach play that involved Liam Gibson, Brooklyn Ilunga and strike partner Will Harris.

Chris Popov scores the only goal of Hartlepool United's home win against Woking (photo FRANK REID) | FRANK REID

placeholder image — Chris Popov scores the only goal of Hartlepool United's home win against Woking (photo FRANK REID) | FRANK REID

Although not the tidiest of finishes, Popov admitted there was ‘a little bit’ of relief at getting off the mark in a blue and white shirt and insisted he always believes his first goal would come if he continued to work hard.

He said: “I’m delighted. It felt really good, scoring, especially at home in front of the fans. Not my finest goal but I’ll take it. I think I should have had a few more, if I am being critical but I’ll watch the game back and see what I can improve. I’m delighted for all of the players, the staff, I’m really happy.”

When asked if a weight had been lifted by his maiden Pools goal, he replied: “Maybe a little bit - but at the same time, I knew if I kept my head down, kept grafting, the goals would come. It has, thankfully, and hopefully that can keep going and I can help the team as much as possible.”

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‘I will take that one’

Hartlepool United head coach Lee Clark (photo Frank Reid) | FRANK REID

Popov’s work-rate and persistence caught the eye throughout Saturday’s win as he hauled Pools up the pitch by pressurising the visitors backline throughout. The forward stressed he was only meeting head coach Lee Clark’s demands and believes his work ethic will help provide him with more chances this season.

He said: “The gaffer wants that out of all of us and he’s really driven that in pre-season and in the first few games. It is part of my game, that’s where I get my chances from but I should have had some more today but I will take the one.”

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