Hartlepool United player ratings vs Woking with 'excellent' 9 and 'composed' 8

A Chris Popov goal was enough for Hartlepool United to claim a narrow home win against Woking on Saturday afternoon.

Lee Clark’s side were made to work hard to end a run of three consecutive defeats but the former Morecambe forward’s first goal for the club was enough to edge out the Cards at Victoria Park. We take a look at the performance of the Pools players and deliver our player ratings for the game.

Hartlepool United player ratings after Woking win

Max Merrick - 5

Didn’t really have a lot to do before he was forced out of the action with an injury just after the half-hour mark.

Jack Hunter - 7

Although he can play at centre-back and has done earlier in his career, it is not Hunter’s natural position - but he produced a solid display at the heart of the back four.

Reiss McNally - 7

Did well in large parts and looked solid enough until the final moments of the game when Woking pushed forwards.

Brooklyn Ilunga - 7

Started very brightly and looked to be Pools best bet to find a breakthrough down the left-hand side. Didn’t let his levels drop during game and showed his versatility by dropping into left-back.

Jamie Miley - 7

Worked hard in the middle of the park and tried to keep Pools ticking over.

Will Harris - 6

Just not happening for the former FC Halifax Town striker at the moment. Worked hard enough but just couldn’t make an impact in dangerous areas prior to his flick that allowed Popov to score.

Neo Eccleston - 9

An excellent display in his first game back after a one-match ban. Eccleston produced a crucial goal-line block and several impressive challenges that played no small part in his side’s win.

Nathan Sheron - 7

Did everything you would expect him to do by working hard and retaining possession neatly in the middle of the park.

Jack Nolan - 6

Much like Harris, it just isn’t happening for Nolan in key areas. Sometimes was on the periphery - although in his defence, there were moments when he found himself in space but didn’t receive the ball.

Chris Popov - 8

There was relief for the former Morecambe man as he got off the mark in a Pools shirt and it has to be said, the goal was a reward for the energy and endeavour he showed throughout his time on the pitch.

Liam Gibson - 8

An excellent response to a disappointing display at Halifax. Gibson was solid and composed throughout before suffering from cramp late on.

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Subs

Fisher (on for Merrick) - 8

The former Middlesbrough youngster produced a solid display after coming on for the injured Merrick and made one outstanding save in particular as he kept out John Marquis in the final stages.

Bondo (on for Popov) - 6

Worked diligently down the left-hand side but looked nervy in possession

Deeming (on for Gibson) - 6

The on-loan West Bromwich Albion youngster howed flashes of why Clark was so keen to secure his services.

Hugill (on for Harris) - 6

Tried to impose his physical presence on the visitors defence after his introduction

Subs not used: Penman, Benn, Thornton

Your next Hartlepool United read: Lee Clark makes 'tough' admission after Hartlepool United win against Woking