MELLON'S JOY IS THE LAST STRAW FOR ASKEY

IT was a tale of two managers at Boundary Park as Hartlepool United closed the book on a painful 2023 by dismissing John Askey after this defeat.

- David Wilson

In contrast, Oldham Athletic boss Micky Mellon could celebrate his first home league win as Latics manager, to move closer to the playoff positions.

Askey, who had been in charge of Pools since February, was unaware of the decision to part ways last night as he performed his usual post-match duties.

“The first goal kills us,” he said. “We defended better on the whole but mistakes cost us again so until we eradicate those mistakes then it’s going to be a similar story.”

Pools’ injury woes also continued as striker Josh Umerah twisted his knee and limped off in the second half.