Northampton Town v Hartlepool United: Rhys Oates looks to get back to winning ways

Rhys Oates hopes a return to the road brings a return to winning ways for Hartlepool United.
Rhys Oates in action for Hartlepool United against Cambridge United. Picture by FRANK REIDRhys Oates in action for Hartlepool United against Cambridge United. Picture by FRANK REID
Rhys Oates in action for Hartlepool United against Cambridge United. Picture by FRANK REID

Pools visit Northampton Town tomorrow on the back of two horridhome dates, losing 3-0 to Bristol Rovers and 4-1 to Luton Town.

There was at least some promise in the match against the Hatters, with Pools creating countless chances, including the one set up by Oates which captain Billy Paynter headed home.

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Such were the openings, had the match ended 6-4 to Pools it would not have been a fanciful result.

“It’s been a tough week – we’ve conceded a few goals,” said Oates.

“Hopefully we’ll get up and running again tomorrow with three points at Northampton.

“We played a lot better against Luton, we just made a few silly mistakes and we didn’t take our chances.

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“That’s the way it goes sometimes, but I don’t think we deserved to lose 4-1.

“It’s been a bit up and down for us but I hope we can get back on track and start winning games again.”

Oates has enjoyed a good run in the side.

He began the season on the bench but after making his first start against Bournemouth in the Capital One Cup, he has been in the starting XI every game since.

The 20-year-old has featured up front and out wide and does not mind which position he fills as long as he is playing.

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“This is the longest run I’ve had in the Football League,” he told SportMail.

“I played 10 games in the Conference but this is totally different.

“I don’t mind where I play. I came as a striker and then I’ve played wide in a three and then on the wing in a 4-4-2. I enjoy all the positions, I’m happy just to be on the field.”