Ben Goodliffe’s first half strike was enough to separate the sides at Gander Green Lane as Sutton made their dominance count.
It was a frustrating evening for Pools who struggled to get going until the final few minutes when Olofela Olomola and Jamie Sterry both saw headers go wide.
The defeat sees Pools drop to fifth in the League Two table.
Scroll down and click through the pages to reveal the Pools ratings...
The defeat sees Pools drop to fifth in the League Two table.
. HARTLEPOOL, UK. SEPT 11TH Hartlepool United's Will Goodwin reacts to a missed chance during the Sky Bet League 2 match between Hartlepool United and Bristol Rovers at Victoria Park, Hartlepool on Saturday 11th September 2021. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News)
Will Goodwin. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
. Ben Killip - 6
Saved well to deny Enzio Boldewijn and Bennett in the first. Should have done better for the opening goal but responded well with some strong punches and parries. Photo: Mark Fletcher
. Zaine Francis-Angol - 5
Made a couple of good blocks but his distribution was poor until he shifted inside and pushed forward. Photo: Bernadette Malcolmson
. Timi Odusina - 4
Erratic from the start with several nervy moments before being substituted. Photo: Mark Fletcher
. Gary Liddle - 6
The pick of the back three as he dealt with most things that came his way. Photo: Mark Fletcher
13. Fela Olomola - 6
On for Smith 61: Pools improved following his introduction. Came close with a header and put in a couple of good balls into the box. Photo: Mark Fletcher
14. Hornsey's Bar & Grill
Sponsors of our Hartlepool United matchday coverage. Photo: Hornseys