'That was special' - Lee Clark praises Hartlepool United supporters after Barrow win

Lee Clark could not have wished for a more positive introduction to the Hartlepool United faithful as almost 6,000 Poolies roared their side to a 2-0 win against Barrow on the opening day of the National League season.

Clark handed debuts to a whole host of his summer signings and two of them made an immediate impact in front of goal as former FC Halifax Town striker Will Harris and versatile winger Jack Nolan both found the net to ensure their head coach could celebrate the first competitive fixture of his reign with a fully deserved win.

There was a fresh feel around The Vic and the Pools faithful more than played their back with 90 minutes of vociferous backing that played no small part in an impressive opening to their season. The off-field performance earned praise from Clark as he reiterated his desire to provide Pools supporters with a ‘front-foot’ side that will match the passion and enthusiasm shown by those in the stands.

Speaking after the win, Clark said: “That was special. Listen, I’ve been here when it’s rocked and there’s been some great nights over many, many decades and that’s me showing my age. That’s why I said I know what this place is about and I want to get those days back - but it’s up to me, my staff and the players to deliver a team that matches the fans and that’s what I’m determined to do. I said we’ve got an identity and sometimes over the course of a season, that identity will come a little bit unstuck because we are playing high-risk football - but it’s what the fans want to see. They want front-foot, they want us to be competitive. We are delighted for them tonight that they can go home happy.”

‘No better feeling’ - Lee Clark

Clark shared a moment with supporters at the end of the game as he fist-pumped in front of them as the celebrations continued on and off the pitch shortly after the full-time whistle had been blow at The Vic. However, the Pools head coach quickly switched his focus towards preparing for another busy week as he looks to build on Saturday’s win.

“Honestly, in professional life, there’s no better feeling than winning football matches and being back in the dressing room with your team and your squad. We enjoy that with the fans. I’ll now be watching the footage tonight and tomorrow getting ready for the debrief with the group on Monday and then we will be getting prepped for the cup match - but more importantly for the senior boys, the Aldershot game.”

Pools will field a youthful looking side for their opening National League Cup fixture against Middlesbrough Under-21s on Tuesday afternoon (3pm kick-off) before the attention turns back towards the senior action when Clark’s side make the long trip to Aldershot Town for the first of two consecutive away days on Saturday.

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