Hartlepool United... In Focus

It is a sad state of affairs for a club when you are most famous for the support of Sky Sports pundit, Jeff Stelling.

Wilson...successful?

Following relegation from League One on the last day of last season, fans expected a swift return to the third tier of English football. But, things haven't gone to plan so far for the Pool who sit seventh in the table, just a point inside the play-off places.

The appointment of manager Danny Wilson in June has bought mixed fortunes for the club. Wilson was welcomed by the fans due to his vast Premiership and Championship pedigree, but has yet to really get the best from his squad.

With five away wins to their name, their form on their travels has not been the problem. It's the fact that they've failed to win six of their opening eleven home games that will cause the most concern.

With Barnet, Swindon and Shrewsbury all taking three points from Victoria Park, the fans frustration is somewhat understandable.

The Pool were six games in until they recorded their first victory and since then have climbed the table gradually.

All is not lost for the Pool however this season. Despite under-achieving thus far in League Two, they are still in a play-off position and there have been signs that things look set to get better after Christmas.

Hartlepool have won their last five league games and with a run of three straight wins and 12 goals at the back end of September, the side have showed exactly why they should be pitching towards the top three.

With Peterborough and MK Dons to visit Victoria Park over the coming games, it is perfect time for Wilson, to show both his and his side's true colours.

Striker Jon Daly has certainly filled his boots this season with eight league goals to his name already.

Youngster James Brown has been in amongst the action as well this term showing exactly why he is being labelled as one for the future.

But Wilson really will be asking more from his star man Joel Porter in the coming months if Hartlepool are to seal a quick return to League One football.

Manager: Danny Wilson

League position (on December 18th 2006): 7th

Daly...Top goalscorer

Top Goalscorer: Jon Daly has eight

Goals Scored: 28

Goals Conceded: 22

Player of the season so far: Jon Daly: popping up with some vital goals so far this term.

Against Notts: A 1-0 defeat for the Magpies at Meadow Lane earlier this month. Notts travel to Victoria Park 21 April in what could be a deciding promotion battle.

Drapes Prediction: Hartlepool to miss out: 9^{th. Will Wilson still be at the Pool this time next year?}