Hartlepool United

Never go back? Not for Hartlepool United ace Rhys Oates

Oates, inset, is now Pools’ top scorer, one of the National League’s leading strikers and took home three player of the year awards. Last weekend, he demolished a previously stout Bromley back four as Pools progressed through the play-off eliminator.

Hartlepool United

Dave Challinor is key to Hartlepool United progress

When Pools appointed Challinor in November 2019, they were becoming a middling National League side. Hoping for a route back to the EFL but always falling short. They went through four managers in two-and-a-half years after relegation.