Gary Liddle - goal again

By Charlie Summerbell
September 11 2011

A combination of stern defending and great chance-taking gave Hartlepool United a record-breaking win at Carlisle - the first time the club has ever gone the first seven games of a League season unbeaten.

Pools needed a bit of luck to survive a positive opening from the home team, but Gary Liddle lashed in the first on 20 minutes after Nobby Solano’s shot was blocked and Adam Boyd’s 20-yarder gave them the cushion they needed for the second half.

With Richie Humphreys playing his 600^th career game, Pools dug in with skipper Sam Collins going on sub for the second half, and though Rory Loy scored from the spot for the home team they could do no more as Pools held out for their third win on the trot.

It was a win that pleased Mick Wadsworth, who told the club website: “They tested us, but we overcame it and were definitely the better team.

“Two goals put us in a great position. We knew what to expect in the second half, it was a big decision to sacrifice a player (Collins on for Humphreys), but we needed Sam on because they do really cross the ball very well and work hard on set pieces.

“Setting a new club record is great for the fans and the players. They have worked very hard.”

Carlisle is hardly round the corner, but such is League One at present that it’s as close as Pools fans get to a derby, and 700 made the journey.

“They were noisier than their 4,000,” said Wadsworth. “The away support has been terrific, but it’s getting better and better.”

With another blank midweek, the next game is at home to Richie Barker’s Bury, who lost 4-2 at home to Rochdale on Saturday. Having held on to sixth place at Carlisle, they now have a home chance to improve on that.

Heady days for Pools and their fans.