Hartlepool United vs Chester
FA Cup
4th Round Qualifying
Saturday
14th October 2023
The Suit Direct Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the FA Cup 4th Round Qualifying fixture between Hartlepool United and Chester.
Hartlepool United vs Chester: Preview
Hartlepool United form analysis
Pools had a difficult start, losing 0-1 at home to Dagenham in their opening game after an unfortunate Ling own goal. They then suffered a 0-2 home defeat to Solihull as defensive issues surfaced. Problems at the back persisted in another 2-0 loss at home, this time against Dorking as Hartlepool again struggled. A fourth straight defeat followed away at Boreham Wood, with Ndlovu’s goal settling a tight encounter. However, Hartlepool did finally get off the mark last time out, beating Eastleigh 3-1 at home thanks to goals from Crawford, Dieseruvwe (2) and an excellent all-round performance.
Overall, it’s been a very tough beginning to the season for Hartlepool as they badly missed injured striker Olomola. They’ve looked vulnerable defensively and lacked a cutting edge despite chances created. Avoiding heavy beatings is crucial now for rebuilding morale after 4 straight losses. But significant improvement is required after this winless opening month.
Chester form analysis
Chester began September perfectly by winning 2-1 at home against Blyth Spartans, coming from behind late on thanks to goals from Caton and Whitehouse’s stoppage time penalty. However, they then suffered back-to-back 1-0 away losses against Boston and Spennymoor, failing to create much in tight games settled by solitary goals. Chester did bounce back to winning ways last time out though, beating Peterborough Sports 3-2 in an entertaining match thanks to strikes from Caton, Thomas and Daly.
Overall, it’s been an inconsistent start to the season for Chester as they struggle for results and fluency. New signing Caton has impressed with 3 goals, but Chester have lacked creativity from midfield at times. Chester still have the quality to make a playoff push this term. But finding more consistent spark in attack is crucial after this erratic month.
