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...
9. Will Harris
Linked play well, providing a constant out ball alongside Hugill. Lacked end product, but applied himself well. 6 | Hartlepool Mail, Chris Fryatt
10. Jordan Hugill
A real focal point, ran tirelessly at the point of attack, but failed to find the opening his efforts merited. 6 | Frank Reid
11. Luke Charman
A willing runner from the bench, but struggled to make a decisive impact in the final third. 6
12. Jay Benn
A steady enough cameo at right wing-back, but was caught wandering for the late equaliser. 5 | Frank Reid