Hartlepool United will stage their first home friendly of the summer when League Two visitors Grimsby Town come to Victoria Park on Saturday afternoon. The match represents the penultimate warm-up fixture for Pools before the league campaign begins on 8 August.
Clark keen to see his new-look side in front of the home crowd
New head coach Lee Clark said he is looking forward to the occasion and to meeting supporters at the club’s historic ground, which has benefited from a recent pitch refurbishment. After a summer of significant squad turnover, Saturday’s game is the first opportunity for many fans to watch the revamped side in person.
“I am looking forward to it immensely. The excitement has been building, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with the players and the staff so far and to get back to your home, with the refurbished pitch, which is looking fantastic,” Clark said.
Pre-season has stepped up in quality
Pools have enjoyed a productive pre-season, recording wins against non-league opposition including Seaton Carew, Redcar Athletic, Spennymoor Town and Hebburn Town. The fixtures against Grimsby and then Fleetwood Town a week later will provide a tougher examination of Clark’s preparations.
- First home friendly: Grimsby Town (League Two) — Saturday afternoon at Victoria Park
- Final pre-season fixture: Fleetwood Town (EFL opposition) — seven days later
- Season opener: 8 August — Pools prepare to be match-fit for the league
The match will also give supporters a first sight of summer signings who have joined in recent weeks, with Jack Nolan, Will Harris and Chris Popov expected to feature as Clark assesses his options ahead of the new campaign.
What supporters can expect
Clark has sought stronger opposition in the closing stages of pre-season to ensure his players are tested both in possession and without the ball. The home fixture is being framed as a meaningful rehearsal for the demands of League Two football.
| Fixture | Level |
|---|---|
| Seaton Carew | Northern League |
| Redcar Athletic | Northern Premier League |
| Spennymoor Town | National League North |
| Hebburn Town | National League North |
While results in early pre-season have been encouraging, Clark has emphasised the importance of being tested by EFL opposition. For supporters planning to attend, the fixture offers a timely chance to assess the team’s progress and to see how the summer recruits settle into life at Victoria Park.
