By Simian
April 21 2002

Where do I start? The excellent performance, the fantastic hospitality of the Exeter people? the Favour from Luton Town? the long long drive? No, I've got a better suggestion I'm not going to write a full match report. After all you were probably there. If not, go to the official Pools site: www.hartlepoolunited.co.uk/stats/view/postmatch_analysis/0,,10326,00.html

No, I'm going to concentrate this on the real live heroes of yesterday, the unbelievable supporters of Hartlepool United Football Club. I am honoured to count myself as a lifelong fan and yesterday more than ever, I was proud to be a Poolie. Ladies and Gentlemen I am proud of you and I salute you.

730 miles, one of the longest journeys in football and around a thousand people answered the call (I wonder how many Southampton take to Newcastle). The vocal support was constant and vociferous whilst the tension awaiting scores from elsewhere was constipation inducing. I wouldn't have missed it for the world!!
The hospitality of Exeter City FC was admirable. when was the last time you heard an announcement inviting you onto the pitch? 2000 people from 2 different teams and complete harmony. 10 years ago there would have been a riot squad complete with batons helmets and perspex shields!! but not yesterday. The Exeter fans who were applauding the Hartlepool team and fans were fantastic. I believe that we all wish them success next year.

A word of thanks to Luton Town and ermm... Darlington. without their results against Shrewsbury and Scunthorpe respectively, yesterday would have been meaningless. Strange that in both cases it was ex-Poolies that scored the goals.
So on then to Cheltenham. I have said before that the team that goes into the play-offs on form usually prevails. Refer to Blackpool for confirmation.
Cheltenham are a big strong side but let us not forget that in the 0-3 away defeat, we tore them apart for the first 40 minutes with nothing to show for it. We need not fear anyone, we must respect everyone.

I think it's essential that we go all out for a comprehensive win in the first leg. The way we are playing at the moment we can destroy anyone. Lets get this match over with in the first leg. Going to the Cheltenham leg after a draw or a small advantage would make the players (and me) nervous.

We can do it undoubtedly. But after the past 2 seasons The best I will admit to is reserved confidence.