Ronnie Moore lays down gauntlet to Hartlepool United fringe players

The second string have had a four-week break since they last played, a 1-0 reverse at Scunthorpe United which saw Sam Collins name a strong team featuring several first team players.

Tomorrow they are again on the road and travel to Burton Albion for a Final Third Development League (KO 2pm) fixture.

Pools are bottom of the East Division going into the match, with just three points from their opening five league fixtures.

Moore said it is a great chance for the fringe players to show him what they can do in a competitive match.

Pools haven’t had a reserve match since Moore took over as manager at the Sky Bet League Two club.

The experienced 61-year-old insists he has a fair idea of what the second string players can offer him having watched them on the training ground at Maiden Castle, in Durham.

But he says the trip to Burton is a great chance to impress.

Moore said: “The reserves play again this week and they will all get their chance.

“It is a chance to make an impression and get a first team slot.

“I see them in training every day and have a rough idea on the quality.

“But this gives them a good chance when we have a look at them tomorrow.”

Assistant manager Collins is expected to give run outs to the likes of goalkeeper Jon Maxted, defenders Darren Holden and Jordan Richards, midfielders Kieran Green and Lewis Hawkins and striker Scott Fenwick.

Brad Walker, who was an unused sub in the 1-0 defeat at Wycombe Wanderers, could also be given a run out in central midfield. Walker was on the bench at Adams Park and had been struggling with illness.