Here's a look at Hartlepool United's 10 toughest trips ahead of the new National League season.
5. Oldham Athletic - Friday, April 18th 2025
With the National League's second highest average attendance last season, Boundary Park promises to be a difficult place to visit. After an underwhelming 10th placed finish last term, with the Latics winning just six of their 23 home games, Micky Mellon's side are in the midst of a summer makeover and have said goodbye to 14 of the previous campaign's squad. With five new additions so far, including former Pools full-back Reagan Ogle, Oldham are expected to be much more competitive next season. Photo: Getty Images
6. Rochdale - Saturday, April 26th 2025
Rochdale finished just one place above Pools last season following a campaign overshadowed by off-field uncertainty but look to be on firmer financial footing at long last and have been busy this summer, bringing in six new signings. Talented young manager Jimmy McNulty, who made more than 200 appearances for Dale during his playing days, likes his side to play fluid, attacking football. However, Tyrese Sinclair, who has signed for York, and loanees Sam Mather and Cian Hayes, neither of whom look likely to return, were important components in Rochdale's free-flowing, attacking approach and it remains to be seen whether or not the Greater Manchester outfit manage to replace them. As the final stadium Darren Sarll's side are set to visit in the coming season, it will also be a chance for Pools fans to continue their proud tradition of backing their side bedecked in fancy dress. Photo: Pete Norton
7. Solihull Moors - Saturday, November 23rd 2024
Last season's beaten play-off finalists, Solihull will be hoping to shrug off the bitter disappointment of losing two Wembley finals in two weeks - the Moors were also beaten by Gateshead in the FA Trophy, with both games going to penalties - and push for promotion again. Manager Andy Whing is held in high-regard in the Midlands but will have to do without talented midfielder Joe Sbarra, who has stepped up to the Football League with Doncaster. Solihull, who have added three new faces this summer, did the double over Pools last season. Photo: Getty Images
8. Southend United - Saturday, December 14th 2024
Southend overcame financial mismanagement, winding up petitions, a transfer embargo, a 10 point deduction and even a lack of running water at their training ground but, somehow, still managed to finish ninth last season. Long-suffering Shrimpers supporters have been forced to endure a frustrating, nerve-wracking summer after a proposed takeover ran into one problem after another. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel once again for the Essex outfit, who announced their first two summer signings earlier this week after it was confirmed that their transfer embargo had been lifted. With Kevin Maher, who was awarded the freedom of the town for his miraculous work as manager, at the helm, Southend could be a force to be reckoned with if the ongoing ownership issues are finally resolved. Photo: Getty Images