Hartlepool pulled off a surprise 1-0 victory over League One Fleetwood in the FA Cup, with Luke Paynter’s second-half header proving the difference. The National League side, who had never progressed beyond the first round, held firm despite late pressure from their higher-ranked opponents. Next up for Hartlepool is an away trip to Harrogate Town on 16 February 2027, with the hosts currently 16th in the table.
What happened?
Hartlepool dominated the first half, with Rakish Bingham wasting a golden chance when he dragged his shot wide after a perfect pass from Paynter. Fleetwood’s best opportunity came from Antoni Sarcevic’s cross, but Amari’i Bell couldn’t connect at the back post. Just before the break, goalkeeper Adam Bartlett saved Hartlepool again, heading away Jimmy Ryan’s breakaway effort.
How did Hartlepool seal the win?
The decisive moment came just before the hour mark. Danny Andrew’s foul gave Hartlepool a free kick, and Jake Carroll’s cross was nodded in by Paynter at the back post. Scott Fenwick nearly doubled the lead, but Chris Maxwell saved well. Fleetwood pushed hard late on, with David Ball denied twice and Bobby Grant hitting the woodwork from a free kick.
What comes next?
Hartlepool’s focus now shifts to their National League campaign, with a tough away fixture against Harrogate Town on 16 February 2027. The hosts, currently 16th in the table, will be looking to bounce back from this cup exit.
