Hartlepool United forward Chris Popov has given his verdict on teammates Will Harris and Jack Nolan after scoring his first goal for the club. The ex-Leicester City player's strike secured a vital 1-0 home win over Woking at The Vic, ending a run of three straight defeats for Lee Clark's side.
Popov, Harris, and Nolan were all summer signings for the National League club. The victory lifts Hartlepool to 11th in the National League, with 9 points from their opening six matches. Their recent form reads WLLLW, and they have scored 5 goals while conceding 4 so far this campaign.
What did Chris Popov say about Will Harris?
Chris Popov highlighted the immediate understanding he is building with fellow forward Will Harris. The pair linked up effectively in the build-up to Popov's decisive goal against Woking, with Liam Gibson and Brooklyn Ilunga also involved in the approach play. Popov acknowledged that such partnerships need time to develop but was full of praise for his new teammate.
"Partnerships and relationships take time but he's an outstanding player," Popov told the Hartlepool Mail. "Just look at what he did last season." Harris's arrival has provided a focal point for Hartlepool's attack, and his presence is already paying dividends for other forwards in the squad.
How does Jack Nolan help Chris Popov at Hartlepool?
Familiarity is also a key factor for Popov, who played alongside Jack Nolan last season at Morecambe. That existing connection has helped the 20-year-old settle quickly into his new surroundings at Victoria Park. Popov emphasised the value of having a known quantity within the dressing room.
"It's always good to have a familiar face and he's an experienced player," Popov said. "It helps me a lot." Nolan's knowledge of Popov's game from their shared time at Morecambe can be a significant asset for head coach Lee Clark as he looks to build a cohesive unit. You can view the full squad for the current season.
What is Hartlepool United's current league position?
The win against Woking provided a important boost for Hartlepool's early-season ambitions. The three points moved the team into the top half of the table, though they remain 7 points behind early leaders Boreham Wood in the title race. Ending the losing streak was the primary objective, and the clean sheet will have pleased the management as much as the goal.
Popov's contribution was particularly timely, as he had failed to score in his first five competitive appearances for the club before netting the winner. The team's overall standings show a mixed start, but the victory offers a platform to build consistency.
What is next for Hartlepool United?
Attention now turns to the next fixture, a trip to face Kidderminster Harriers this Friday. Securing back-to-back wins would represent a major step forward and could see Hartlepool climb the table significantly. The quick turnaround offers little time for celebration but plenty of opportunity to build on the positive momentum generated at The Vic.
Lee Clark's side will be looking to carry the defensive solidity and clinical edge shown against Woking into that away match. Fans can check the details of this and all upcoming games on the club's fixtures page. The match at Aggborough Stadium kicks off at 7:45 PM on Friday, September 11th.
