Hartlepool United snatched a dramatic late equaliser to salvage a 1-1 draw against a determined Wealdstone side at the Suit Direct Stadium. Despite Wealdstone’s winless start to the season, they looked the more likely victors for much of the match, taking a deserved lead in the 39th minute. A flowing passing move culminated in Max Kretzschmar’s perfectly weighted through-ball to Micah Obiero, who coolly slotted the ball past Hartlepool goalkeeper Joel Dixon. Wealdstone almost doubled their advantage moments before half-time, but Dixon produced a crucial save to keep the score at 1-0.
Hartlepool manager Darren Sarll responded to his side’s lacklustre first-half display with a double substitution at the break, replacing Louis Stephenson and Adam Campbell with Nicky Featherstone and Kieron Freeman. However, the changes didn’t immediately spark the desired reaction, with Wealdstone continuing to stifle Hartlepool’s attacks. The second half became increasingly fragmented, with a series of yellow cards reflecting the escalating tension and physicality of the contest.
As the match entered its final stages, Hartlepool, desperate for an equaliser, committed more men forward, leaving themselves vulnerable on the counter-attack. Wealdstone, defending resolutely, appeared poised to claim their first points of the season. Deep into stoppage time, however, the game took a dramatic twist. A long clearance from goalkeeper Dixon caused chaos in the Wealdstone penalty area. The ball bounced fortuitously for Emmanuel Dieseruvwe, who scrambled it over the line, sparking jubilant celebrations amongst the home supporters. The late goal was a cruel blow for Wealdstone, who had defended valiantly throughout.
The draw leaves Hartlepool unbeaten, while Wealdstone remain in search of their first victory. Hartlepool entered the match in 6th place with 7 points, while Wealdstone sat bottom of the table in 21st with zero points. Previous encounters between these two sides last season produced a 2-1 win for Hartlepool and a thrilling 4-4 draw.