On a scorching afternoon, Tyler Magloire rose highest to head Town into a first-half lead and whilst Josh Umerah hit back with Hartlepool’s first goal of the season on the cusp of half-time, the hosts ultimately prevailed thanks to Louis Appéré’s 58th-minute winner. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields, where there is an unusual choice for star performer…
9. Sam Hoskins
Unable to add to his goal tally but he ran his heart out in the stifling heat. Couple of shots comfortably saved by Killip and might have set up a third goal had he timed his final pass better... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
10. Louis Appéré
Guilty of taking too many touches and slowing play down at times but whilst he had a mixed afternoon, he was rewarded for sticking at it with the winning goal. Didn't ball watch after finding Lintott, drifting centrally and finding himself perfectly placed when Killip spilled the ball... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
11. Danny Hylton
That first Town goal remains elusive having been thwarted by a fantastic double save on this occasion. Made plenty of good runs without reward, particularly in the second-half... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
12. Marc Leonard
Ran the show after his half-time introduction. Demanded the ball constantly, almost always found a team-mate and knitted so many moves together. Must be in the frame to start on Tuesday. Very rare that a substitute is named man of the match but he changed the game... 7.5 CHRON STAR MAN Photo: Pete Norton