A late surge from Hartlepool United secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Yeovil Town at the Suit Direct Stadium in a closely fought National League encounter. A tense first half offered limited goal-scoring opportunities, the only notable incident being a yellow card for Hartlepool’s Jack Hunter in the 32nd minute for a foul. Hartlepool manager Darren Sarll made an early change, bringing on Joe Grey for Adam Campbell in the 26th minute.
The match sprung to life after the hour mark. In the 64th minute, Hartlepool were awarded a penalty, and Emmanuel Dieseruvwe calmly converted to give the home side the lead. Yeovil’s Matthew Worthington received a yellow card just before the penalty was awarded, with Hartlepool’s Frank Nouble also booked for dissent shortly afterwards.
Despite the setback, and buoyed by their recent good form, Yeovil responded quickly. Substitute Kofi Shaw, who had entered the fray just ten minutes earlier, levelled the scores in the 80th minute, finishing off a Brett McGavin assist. The momentum appeared to have shifted decisively in Yeovil’s favour.
However, the game took another dramatic turn just three minutes later. Hartlepool substitute Gary Madine, introduced in the 62nd minute, made an immediate impact, netting the winner from an Anthony Mancini assist. Mancini’s contribution was instantly rewarded as he was substituted, allowing him to bask in the acclaim of the home support. Amidst the late drama, Hartlepool’s Luke Waterfall also picked up a yellow card. Yeovil made further substitutions in a desperate attempt to salvage a point, but Hartlepool held firm to claim a valuable three points.
The victory sees Hartlepool climb above Yeovil in the National League table, moving up to 11th place on 33 points, one point ahead of their opponents who now sit in 10th. The result also avenges Hartlepool’s earlier defeat to Yeovil this season and extends their recent unbeaten run.