Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling and Hartlepool United fans react as Luke Williams makes first league start in four years in 1-0 win over Woking

Rhys Oates’ late winner made the difference for Pools as they remained second in the table and closed the gap on leaders Sutton United to four points.

But it was a first league start for Luke Williams in four years that captured the imagination of Poolies on social media afterwards in support of the midfielder.

Here’s what they had to say via Twitter…

Club president and Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling posted: “The club has persevered. And so has Luke Williams. So pleased for both. Come on Luke help us make that final push back to where the club and you belong - the Football League.”

@_wrighty4 said: “Have to take your hat off to him. He’s been to hell and back in a lonely profession which from the outside nobody sees. He’s a class act and I’m sure everyone is buzzing to see him getting closer and closer to the level he can play at.”

Bri Stokle commented: “Lovely to see. Kid is buzzing, full of confidence from that which makes us Poolies smile. He needed that. You played well Luke all the best.”

@leejeffries4 tweeted: “We have the feel good factor back at our club. Players smiling, enjoying playing for us and fans happy sponsors coming in and we’re competing at the right end table again! Something special is happening at our club which we ain’t seen for a long time.”

@Poolieboy1Les1 posted: “What makes it more enjoyable to see Luke Williams back on the pitch is the timing. The talent the lad has got and coming back at this crucial stage of the season is a breath of fresh air for everyone.”

Luke Marsh: “I am absolutely in love with his story. This lad has been through hell and back and have no doubt was just so close to sacking it all in. A real inspiration for anyone who suffers with injuries and feels like giving up. Delighted for him and is going to be huge in this last push.”

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