The Prestige Group Stadium witnessed a National League encounter full of drama as Hartlepool United narrowly defeated Ebbsfleet United 3-2 in a match that kept supporters gripped until the final whistle. The game was an open affair, characterised by goals and late twists.
Hartlepool took the lead in the 29th minute, Reyes Cleary scoring with an assist from Nathan Sheron. This slender advantage remained intact until the interval.
Ebbsfleet returned after the break with renewed purpose, and their efforts were rewarded in the 51st minute when Maxx Manktelow equalised, assisted by Aaron Cosgrave. However, Hartlepool responded swiftly. Just three minutes later, Emmanuel Dieseruvwe restored the home side’s lead, Nathan Sheron again providing the assist.
The visitors continued to battle, and their persistence paid dividends in the 73rd minute. Substitute Callum Harriott, who had come on just five minutes prior, set up Aaron Cosgrave, who scored Ebbsfleet’s second goal.
As the match entered its final stages, a draw seemed the likely outcome. Both teams traded attacks in a frantic, end-to-end passage of play. Hartlepool manager Darren Sarll made a series of substitutions in an attempt to inject fresh energy and ideas into his team. Joshua Wright, his opposite number, also made changes, hoping for a decisive goal.
The pivotal moment arrived deep into added time. Sam Folarin, who had been introduced as a substitute in the 77th minute, secured a 94th-minute winner for Hartlepool. The stadium erupted as the home side claimed all three points in dramatic fashion.
Throughout the second half, both managers made tactical adjustments, Hartlepool making a total of six substitutions and Ebbsfleet making two. Hartlepool’s substitutions ultimately proved decisive, with Folarin’s late goal highlighting the impact of fresh legs and a change in approach.
The victory lifts Hartlepool to 11th in the National League table, with 55 points from 41 games. While a play-off position appears increasingly unlikely, the win provides a welcome boost and extends their undefeated run. For Ebbsfleet United, already relegated, the defeat is another setback in a challenging season, as they remain at the bottom of the league. However, they displayed admirable fight and determination throughout the match.