Lewis Cass' early red card made it an uphill task for Pools but they were still able to go ahead through Rhys Oates after 33-minutes.
Altrincham drew level on the stroke of half-time as Ryan Colclough’s powerful drive from distance was parried in by Ben Killip.
Pools climb up to second as a result but miss the opportunity to go top of the table.
Here are the Pools player ratings for the evening...
Pools climb up to second as a result but miss the opportunity to go top of the table.
5. Lewis Cass - 4
Started brightly but left Pools with it all to do following an early, albeit unfortunate red card. Photo: Mark Fletcher
6. Mark Shelton - 6
Had to play at centre-back and right-back for a spell following Cass’ absence. Solid throughout without being spectacular. Photo: FRANK REID 2020
7. Nicky Featherstone - 8
Bossed the midfield despite Altrincham's possession with a man advantage. Hardly ever misplaced a pass and mopped things up nicely time after time. Photo: Mark Fletcher
8. Tom Crawford - 5
Wasted a rare chance for Pools in the second half. Passing was unconvincing when Pools needed to keep hold of the ball or counter. Photo: Ian Charles