Hartlepool United were held to a 1-1 draw against Forest Green Rovers at the Prestige Group Stadium, a late equaliser denying them the victory. Forest Green’s point solidifies their play-off position, while Hartlepool remain in mid-table.
The first half began cautiously, with both teams struggling to establish dominance. An early tactical reshuffle saw Forest Green make a substitution in the 13th minute, Harvey Bunker replacing Ryan Inniss. Hartlepool’s Nicky Featherstone received a yellow card in the 18th minute for a foul. The scoring was opened in the 37th minute when David Ferguson found the net for Hartlepool United, with Reyes Cleary providing the assist.
Forest Green made a series of substitutions in the second half, aiming to invigorate their attack. Joe Quigley replaced Charlie McCann in the 63rd minute, and a triple substitution followed in the 74th minute, with Christian Doidge, Kyle McAllister, and Emmanuel Osadebe all entering the match. Hartlepool responded with substitutions of their own: Luke Charman replaced Reyes Cleary in the 68th minute, Sam Folarin came on for Joe Grey in the 77th minute, and Adam Campbell replaced Jamie Miley in the 79th minute.
Forest Green’s persistent late pressure eventually paid off in the 89th minute. Substitute Christian Doidge levelled the score, assisted by fellow substitute Joe Quigley.
The draw sees Forest Green Rovers remain in third place in the National League table with 83 points, securing their place in the play-off semi-finals. Hartlepool United, meanwhile, are in 11th position with 60 points.