Liam Noble believes Hartlepool United have let their standards slip - says lightening won't strike twice v Boreham Wood

But the midfielder also thinks that attitude is an indicator as to how high Pools have set the bar in the National League this season.

Matthew Bates’ men were held to a home draw with Aldershot, who made last season’s fifth tier play-offs last season, on Saturday.

And Noble admits the point felt like a loss at the Super 6 Stadium.

“We were disappointed. We were not at the races,” said Noble.

“We needed a 1-0 win, to grind it out but at least it is a point on the board.

“We were not at the standards we have set ourselves as a team or a club.

“The gaffer wasn’t happy with us at the break and asked us to up the levels. We couldn’t, it wasn’t there.

“All we can do is move on after a tough week, where we have played the best side at this level, and improve.”

While Noble was angry to not bounce back from the blow of the defeat Salford with a win, he does think a little bit of perspective needs to be added to Pools’ start to the season.

“We are still in the top eight so all is not lost,” said Noble.

“It is a long, old season.

“We knew from half time we were not at it, but we let them get that equaliser.

“We never know though, that point could end up getting us promoted.

“It was another point on the board.”

Pools host Boreham Wood at the Vic next weekend and Noble knows nothing less than three points will be acceptable, if the club are to be fighting to get back to the Football League come May.

“You never want to go back-to-back defeats in this league,” said Noble.

“We didn’t do that, which is massive.

“You can say next weekend is a must win, even though it is early, if we want to be up there fighting for promotion.”