The Prestige Group Stadium hosts a crucial National League clash between Hartlepool United and Boston United, with both sides needing points, albeit for different reasons. Hartlepool are battling to avoid relegation, while a resurgent Boston United are aiming to continue their climb up the table.
Hartlepool’s recent form is worrying. An eight-match winless run, including defeats to Aldershot Town, York City, and AFC Fylde, highlights their struggles. Back-to-back 1-1 draws against Eastleigh and Solihull Moors offer a glimmer of hope, but they desperately need to start turning draws into wins. In contrast, Boston United arrive on Teesside full of confidence, unbeaten in their last five matches. Victories against Dagenham & Redbridge, Yeovil Town, and Braintree Town, coupled with draws against Oldham Athletic and Woking, demonstrate their improved form. Like their opponents, they have also found the net in their last three fixtures.
The reverse fixture at the Jakemans Stadium earlier this season saw Hartlepool win 2-1. Anthony Mancini and Emmanuel Dieseruvwe scored for the visitors, overturning Jacob Hazel’s early goal for Boston. Hartlepool also won the only other meeting between the sides in the last three seasons, adding extra spice to this encounter.
Hartlepool currently sit 15th in the National League table with 46 points from 38 matches (10 wins, 16 draws, and 12 losses). Boston United are 21st with 37 points from 36 games (9 wins, 10 draws, and 17 losses). The nine-point gap between the teams underlines the importance of this game.
A win for Hartlepool would be a much-needed boost and halt their slide. A draw would stop the rot but do little to improve their precarious league position. Defeat could see them dragged further into the relegation battle. For Boston United, victory would significantly boost their survival hopes, closing the gap on Hartlepool. A draw would maintain their momentum, while a loss risks halting their progress. This match promises to be a tense affair, with both teams fighting for vital points.