PREVIEW | Chester v Hartlepool

    Craig Harrison’s Hartlepool visit the Swansway Chester Stadium tonight in the Vanarama National League.

    The ‘Monkey Hangers’ have struggled to find their form in recent weeks, winless in their last eight league games – with their last victory coming in November over FC Halifax Town.

    Hartlepool have never played against Chester at this level, in what is their first campaign in the fifth tier. Similar to fellow relegated outfit Leyton Orient, the Pools have struggled with the National League this season – and sit in 18th place heading into the encounter.

    At a sold-out Victoria Park last weekend, the Pools lost 2-0 to Wrexham – where Scott Quigley scored both goals against his former manager Harrison.

    The Blues come into this game looking to bounce back from Saturday’s disappointing 3-1 home defeat to Gateshead.

    One plus was the Chester goal that was scored by Harry White – which means the number nine has now scored in three successive league games.

    History Books

    Club Historian Chas Sumner picks out some stats ahead of the game…

    • This will be the first league meeting between Chester and Hartlepool in the city outside the Football League
    • Earlier in the campaign the points were shared in a 1-1 draw at Hartlepool. James Akintunde scored for the Blues
    • The last meeting at Chester was in October 2006 when Ashley Westwood and Jon Walters scored in a 2-1 victory
    • Hartlepool’s last league victory at Chester came in November 1970. The Blues are unbeaten in 16 home league meetings since then
    • In December 1998 Hartlepool won an Auto Windscreens match at Chester by a Golden Goal in extra time. This remains the only time a Chester game has been settled in this way

    ONE TO WATCH

    Jake Cassidy – Striker

    Cassidy has already netted three strikes so far this season, in a campaign which has been injury ridden for the young striker.

    Born in Glan Conwy, Cassidy began his career at Llandudno Junction and Airbus UK Broughton – before making the move to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2010. Loan spells at Tranmere Rovers and Notts County followed, which eventually led to the 24-year old’s first spell at in the National League with Guiseley.

    A fan favourite amongst ‘Poolies’, Cassidy made the move to the North East this summer in a raft a new summer signings made by new manager, Craig Harrison.

    Known as a tough, influential striker, Cassidy has represented Wales at U21 level during his time at Wolves.

    Match Details

    Kick off at the Swansway Chester Stadium tonight is 7.45pm. Ticket prices can be found here

    Can’t make the game? Follow us on Twitter @ChesterFC for full match updates OR listen to our live and FREE commentary on our dedicated Mixlr page.