Pools were put to the sword by a strong Boro side, but manager Craig Hignett will no doubt be pleased with aspects of what was a promising performance. And our Hartlepool United writer, Dominic Scurr, has dished out some fairly strong player ratings following the clash. Scroll down and click through the pages to see who he felt shone and struggled:
13. Adam Bale - 7
Provided some legs to the midfield late on with some good closing down to help Pools end the game strongly. Photo: Mark Fletcher
14. Niko Muir - 7
Showed good strength to create some decent opportunities for himself but lacked the finish. Photo: FRANK REID
15. Josh Hawkes - 6
Didn’t really get on the ball as much as he would have liked due to Boro’s possession. Photo: Frank Reid
16. Luke James - 7
Instantly positive after being introduced. A pacy run forward from James almost led to Pools pulling a goal back just moments after coming on and he kept up the intensity in the final third until the full-time whistle. Photo: Frank Reid