Hartlepool United put in a highly encouraging display but had to settle for a sharing of the spoils in a 1-1 draw against Wealdstone at Victoria Park on Saturday afternoon.
The hosts started brightly, going close through Jack Nolan and Nathan Sheron in the early knockings. Will Harris would also glance a header wide from close range as Wealdstone struggled for a foothold in the contest.
As the first period wore on, Pools continued to create opportunities, with Max Clark and Nolan both going close to breaking the deadlock.
The two teams would head in level at the interval, but Pools continued to push after the break, with Jamie Miley and Liam Gibson both going close before Clark blazed a volley over the top.
Yet more chances came and went for the home side before substitute Brooklyn Ilunga stepped up with 10 minutes remaining to catapult Wild’s men into a well-deserved lead, but a Reiss McNally own goal at the death denied Pools all three points.
Here’s how Pete Wild’s side rated against Wealdstone...
1. Max Merrick
Had little to do, but went about his business astutely and distributed well for the most part. 6 | Chris Fryatt
2. Jack Nolan
Operating as a wing-back to decent effect, could have grabbed the opener inside the first five minutes but for a fine save. A lively presence on the ball, showed his quality several times. 7 | Frank Reid
3. Max Kouogun
Swept up danger with minimal fuss at the centre of a back three. 7 | Chris Fryatt
4. Reiss McNally
A typically steady showing from the captain, prior to the cruel blow of that late, late own goal. 6 | Hartlepool Mail, Chris Fryatt