IN THIS TOGETHER: Hartlepool are back on the up under rookie boss Matthew Bates, inset

PICTURE: Jon Bromley

By Mark Carruthers
HARTLEPOOL United manager Matthew Bates has hailed the Victoria Park faithful for their support as he looks to get the club back into the Football League.
Pools endured a challengingfirst season in the National League as they flirted with relegation before finishing the campaign in 15th place, eight points clear of the drop zone.
Despite a turbulent season on and off the pitch, the club were backed by their supporters and ended the season with an average home ...