Eastleigh manager Matt Gray is demanding more goals from his squad as they prepare for a tough National League visit to Hartlepool United this Friday. The Spitfires travel to Victoria Park looking to improve their away form after a mixed start to the season. This report is based on information from the Hartlepool Mail.
Hartlepool United, currently sitting 5th in the National League with six points from three games, will be aiming to bounce back from a recent defeat at Sutton United. Lee Clark's side have a goal difference of +2, having scored four and conceded two so far this campaign. They are three points behind early leaders Southend. You can follow their progress on our standings page.
What does Matt Gray want from his Eastleigh team?
Matt Gray has called for his players to share the goal-scoring burden more evenly. While striker Aaron Blair, who netted 17 times last season, opened his account in Saturday's 3-2 win over Scunthorpe United, Gray wants others to step up. "You still want the amount of goals that he’s got - but you want the rest of the team backing him up in behind," the Eastleigh boss said. He specifically highlighted a desire for his team to be more dangerous from set-pieces and to make better first contact in the opposition penalty area.
Eastleigh's season has been defined by home form, with victories against Gateshead and Scunthorpe United at their own ground. Their sole away trip resulted in a 1-0 loss to newly-promoted Kidderminster Harriers. The upcoming match against Hartlepool represents a significant test as they seek their first points on the road. The team's current top scorer is Michael Dacosta, who has yet to find the net in his two appearances.
How did Eastleigh beat Scunthorpe United?
The weekend's five-goal thriller provided the platform for Gray's comments. Eastleigh edged out Scunthorpe United 3-2 in a match that saw goals from Harry Sidwell, Josh Lundstrom, and Aaron Blair. Blair's strike was his first of the new campaign, a positive sign for a player considered the main threat to Hartlepool's defence. The win lifted Eastleigh to six points from their opening three fixtures. Gray praised the supporters after the match, stating, "The fans were great, the fans were superb and it was good to go and clap them seeing what we are trying to do."
What is the challenge for Hartlepool United?
For Hartlepool United, the focus is on responding to their setback at Sutton United. Lee Clark's team have shown promising early form with two wins and a loss. Their defensive record of just two goals conceded will be tested by an Eastleigh attack looking to add variety to its threat. The fixture is a key early-season encounter for both clubs with aspirations in the National League. Fans can check the latest team news on our squad page.
The match at Victoria Park kicks off a busy period for Hartlepool. Securing a positive result is important to maintain their position near the top of the table. With the league standings still taking shape, every point counts in what promises to be a long and competitive season. The full schedule of upcoming matches is available on our fixtures list.
