Hartlepool vs Newport County Predictions

• Both teams have scored in four of the last five Hartlepool home league games.
• Both teams have scored in the last four Newport County away league games.
• Hartlepool have taken 19 points from a possible 21 at home so far this season.

Exiles primed to capitalise on Pools’ defensive issues  

Hartlepool’s unbeaten home league record is under threat when they play Newport County on Friday night in their first league game since the departure of manager Dave Challinor.

Former assistant Anthony Sweeney has taken caretaker charge and has seen a largely positive reaction to the 5-0 thumping Pools received from Leyton Orient at the end of last month.

Four days after beating a young Everton side in the EFL Trophy, Pools pushed League One promotion contenders Wycombe all the way in the FA Cup.

Sweeney was delighted with the quality they showed in taking the lead twice, but felt the hosts conceded two sloppy goals – which suggests both teams to score is going to be on the cards again unless something drastic changes.

In-form Telford can add to recent tally

Friday’s visitors look well-equipped to take advantage of any gifts with in-form Dom Telford leading the Exiles’ attack at Victoria Park. The diminutive forward has scored seven goals in his last three league appearances, putting himself in the running for the League Two player of the month award and making him an attractive anytime goalscorer bet.

Newport have scored eight goals in their last four away league games and should carry a major threat on Friday, but Hartlepool’s superb home form – six wins and a draw from seven games – suggests the value in the correct score market is in a 2-1 Pools win.

The hosts currently average 1.71 goals scored and 0.71 conceded per home game.