Hartlepool United face arguably their most difficult test of the season when they travel to National League leaders and title favourites Boreham Wood on Saturday afternoon.
Luke Garrard’s side have won 13 of their first 15 league games and will be looking to extend an impressive unbeaten run when they host Pete Wild’s men at Meadow Park. The hosts are comfortably the highest scorers in non-league’s top tier and boast the joint best defensive record.
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By contrast, Pools travel to the capital sitting just outside of the relegation zone and they will hope to move on from their midweek defeat at AFC Fylde by claiming what many would consider to be a shock win. But what changes could Wild make as he seeks to bring a reaction out of his players? We take a look at a predicted starting eleven as Pools prepare for to face a side many believe will be competing in the EFL next season.
Your next Hartlepool United read: 'Dominate games' - Warning for Hartlepool United ahead of Boreham Wood trip
1. Max Merrick
Max Merrick could feature once again after missing the midweek defeat (photo Chris Fryatt) | Chris Fryatt
2. Max Kouogun
The defender has returned to contention at the right time for Wild (photo Chris Fryatt) | Chris Fryatt
3. Sam Lavelle
The recent signing has made a solid start to life at Pools (photo Chris Fryatt) | Hartlepool Mail, Chris Fryatt
4. Reiss McNally
McNally has arguably been Pools best defender so far this season (photo Chris Fryatt) | Hartlepool Mail, Chris Fryatt