Craig Harrison reveals his frustration at another home draw for Pools

Craig Harrison was left frustrated that Hartlepool United were held to their second successive 1-1 home draw, Tranmere this time fighting back to share the spoils.
Hartlepool United midfielder Lewis Hawkins gets in a header against Tranmere Rovers. Picture by Frank ReidHartlepool United midfielder Lewis Hawkins gets in a header against Tranmere Rovers. Picture by Frank Reid
Hartlepool United midfielder Lewis Hawkins gets in a header against Tranmere Rovers. Picture by Frank Reid

Pools appeared destined for their fourth National League win at Victoria Park when Nicky Deverdics thundered in a 30-yard free-kick in the 52nd minute.

However, Rovers sub Jay McEveley headed in an equaliser six minutes later.

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It could have been worse for Pools had Tranmere midfielder Connor Jennings not squandered a gilt-edged chance in the fourth and final minuute of added time.

The draw left Pools 14th – and still just three points off the play-offs – and Harrison was left to rue the fact they could not turn pressure into goals.

“I think, looking at it over the first 50 to 60 minutes, it’s two points dropped,” said Harrison.

“It’s probably as good as we played for a long time, lots of pressure, lots of corners, free-kicks and their keeper has made some good saves.

“But once they scored we took our foot off the pedal a bit.

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“You automatically drop off and until they scored there was only one team in it.

“We passed it really well, and with the chances we created we could have been two or three up.

“I was really pleased first-half how we put them on the back foot and the keeper had to make four good first-half saves.

“You would like to think we have done enough to win, but we haven’t won.

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“Performance-wise, we were good for an hour, but the last 10 minutes we ran out of steam a bit.

“I was more concerned about the draw on Saturday – then we didn’t create as many chances.

“But the amount of possession, territory and chances here was good – we had more than the games against Barrow, Solihull and Sutton put together and we won two of them.

“When we are on top, we have to score the second goal. The Maidstone game stands out on that front.”