Less than a week ago, Pools suffered a 4-1 loss at the hands of Harrogate on Boxing Day – their heaviest defeat of the season.
A 2-2 draw against league leaders Barrow was a reasonable reaction to the humbling at the CNG Stadium as Dave Challinor’s side now look to turn things around and get back to winning ways.
With just two defeats in their last 11 games at Victoria Park, Pools are proving a tough side to beat on home turf these days though they’re yet to beat Harrogate in four attempts. With several changes expected from the Boxing Day thrashing, here is our predicted Hartlepool line-up for the New Year’s Day clash...
1. GK - Ben Killip
Will be looking to bounce back once again after a costly error leading to a goal on Saturday. Photo: COPYRIGHT (C) FRANK REID 20187
2. LB - Mark Kitching
Missed out on Saturday but could make a quick return to the side after scoring on his previous start at Victoria Park. Will have to be switched on defensively to deal with Harrogate's threat out wide. Photo: Mark Fletcher
3. CB - Gary Liddle
Four games in little over a week is a lot for the veteran defender but the fact that he's cup tied for Oxford on Saturday could see him feature once again. Photo: Mark Fletcher
4. CB - Michael Raynes
Dropped out of the team for the first time in the National League this season on Saturday. Despite a disappointing display at Harrogate, the defender could be handed the chance at redemption at Victoria Park to start 2020. Photo: Frank Reid