Craig Harrison understands frustrations of angry Hartlepool United fans - but says he will not turn his back on the National League strugglers

But he has revealed he is no mood to turn his back on Victoria Park, insisting he is no “coward”.

Social media was awash with criticism for the Pools manager after his side yet again let more National League points slip in what was a relegation six-pointer at The Shay against Halifax Town.

Travelling Poolies were also keen to make their feelings known as a whole host of fans flooded down to shout abuse at Harrison, his coaching staff and players.

“I understand the frustrations,” he said.

“We’ve not won as many games as we should and I would never, as manager of this club hide from the facts. I’m not a coward, I’m accountable and the frustrations are there for all to see.

“It’s life and how it is. If things aren’t going well you have to accept that – it’s not all roses and rainbows, it’s the situation we are in.”

Harrison is backing his players to put the disappointment of last night behind them, though, when they take on Ebbsfleet this weekend.

“We have a home game to come now and we have to look at it,” he said.

“I’ve emphasised in the dressing room that emotions are running high and we will analyse it again on Wednesday and Thursday. “We can’t feel sorry for ourselves and we go again on Saturday. The only way to make a difference is to relay information back to the players and be positive.

“We are closer to the bottom now, football brings pressure and we have to try and win games and put out of our head all the other things going on. Worry about that and it’s in the mind then it can paralyse you.

“We need as many points as we can and we will do all we can from now until Saturday to prepare right and get the three points.”