NEALE Cooper has told his Hartlepool players they must build on last weekend’s long overdue home win.
Pool’s 2-0 victory over struggling Rochdale at Victoria Park last Saturday ended a nine-match losing streak on home soil that began in October, and it also gave Cooper his first win since taking over at the end of December.
Prior to the Rochdale game, Pool’s last home win came on September 17 against Bury, which they followed up with an away win at Bournemouth.
And with Pool travelling to St James’ Park to face Exeter City this afternoon, Cooper is hoping his side can complete back-to-back wins for the first time in four months. He said: “It was important for everyone to get the win last week.
“I think it was a relief for everyone and a big boost for me personally to get my first win so now we have to build on that because it would be a great time to pick up a little run of results.
“The best thing about the performance against Rochdale was the attitude and seeing all the boys fighting for each other – that’s what it’s all about.
“I can’t ask for more than that and I know that the Hartlepool public will support the team when they are showing that attitude.
“It’s a difficult one this weekend, going away to Exeter. It’s a long journey, but I think it’s a good chance to bond on the bus. I can speak to one or all of the boys individually.
“Exeter are coming into the game on the back of a 2-0 victory against Chesterfield last weekend which will give them confidence.
“But we are looking for another display like the one we put in against Rochdale.”
Pool’s poor home form saw them slide down the table but last week’s win lifted them back up to 13th, five places and seven points above Exeter.
“The atmosphere in the changing room after the game was brilliant – there was just a buzz about the place and that’s what I love to see,” said Cooper. “It brightens everyone up. But that’s football. Winning games makes for a good atmosphere at a football club.
“Rather than thinking about disappointing results, you go with the positives.
“The lads have worked ever so hard again this week and they are all really looking forward to this game.”
Cooper will make a late decision over the fitness of forward James Poole, who has missed the last three games with a hamstring problem.
But skipper Sam Collins came through his return to action against Rochdale without any problems and will be fit to play at Exeter this afternoon.
