Next two fixtures will really test us – Turner

Nov 21 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

CHRIS Turner believes his Hartlepool United will know they can challenge for a play-off place if they do well in their next two games.

Pool travel to high-scoring Huddersfield today then entertain fallen giants Southampton on Tuesday – and Turner feels they will be able to live with anyone in League One if they can hold their own during these two tough examinations.

The 1-0 win over Leyton Orient lifted Pool up to ninth in the table, although they are still four points off the play-off zone, with today’s opponents occupying the sixth and final spot.

Turner said: “We are five unbeaten and the next two are enormous against big opposition. Huddersfield are scoring for fun and have a massive budget.

“Then it’s Southampton. You can not hide from the fact they are in the bottom four (after a ten-point deduction) – but they are my outside bet for the play-offs.