League Two 2021/22 fixtures: The key dates Hartlepool United fans need to know ahead of EFL return

The key fixture and cup tie dates Hartlepool United fans need to know ahead of EFL return

After dramatically sealing their return to the EFL after a four-year absence, Pools fans are now looking ahead with optimism to a campaign back in the fourth tier.

And with fixture release day always heralding the real build-up to the new campaign, excitement is set to build this week.

So here’s everything you need to know about the fixture release, and the key dates fans will need to remember:

When are the 2021/22 League Two fixtures released?

The fixtures for the 2021/22 League Two season will be released at 9am on Thursday, June 24.

Every League Two fixture will be released at this point – although some could be moved for broadcast reasons as the season progresses.

Some of Hartlepool United’s games could also be postponed owing to international call-ups and should the side progress in the domestic cup competitions.

When does the 2021/22 League Two season begin?

The League Two season is scheduled to kick-off on August 7.

There is likely to be one televised EFL game broadcast on August 6, although this is expected to be a Championship fixture.

Pools fans will no doubt be hoping for a home game to begin the campaign.

When does the 2021/22 League Two season end?

Currently, the League One season is set to come to a close on May 7/8.

This is a week after the League One season ends, and the same weekend as the Championship comes to a conclusion.

When will the 2021/22 League Two play-offs be played?

While the exact fixture dates for the semi-finals are yet to be confirmed, we do know that the play-off final for League One will take place on Saturday May 28.

This is a week after the League One final, but the day before the Championship equivalent.

When is the first round of the Carabao Cup in 2021/22?

Hartlepool United will enter the Carabao Cup at the first round stage, where ties will be played on the week commencing August 9.

The draw date for the first round has yet to be set.

When will Papa John’s Trophy fixtures be played in 2021/22?

Pools will be returning to compete in the Papa John’s Trophy this season – and will kick-off their group stage campaign on the week commencing August 30.

The final is scheduled to be played on April 3.

When does the FA Cup start in the 2021/22 season?

FA Cup round dates are yet to be confirmed – but will become apparent when there is a game in the League Two schedules.

What are Hartlepool United’s current odds to win League Two in 2021/22?

Hartlepool are currently priced at 33/1 to win League Two in 2021/22.

Here’s the favourites with Sky Bet:

Salford City – 6 / 1

Bristol Rovers – 8 / 1

Exeter City – 12 / 1

Mansfield Town – 12 / 1

Bradford City – 14 / 1

Forest Green Rovers – 14 / 1

Northampton Town – 14 / 1

Rochdale – 14 / 1

Swindon Town – 14 / 1

Tranmere Rovers – 14 / 1

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