Hartlepool United secured their first victory under new manager Pete Wild, ending a six-match winless streak with a 4-2 home win against Forest Green Rovers on Saturday. The match saw Jordan Hugill open the scoring from the penalty spot just before half-time, with Nathan Sheron adding a second goal shortly after the break. Hugill then extended Hartlepool’s lead with a long-range strike nine minutes later, leaving the visitors trailing 3-0.

Forest Green Rovers mounted a late rally as Omari Patrick converted Kelvin Abrefa’s cross in the 65th minute, followed by a penalty goal from Kyle McAllister five minutes afterward, narrowing the deficit to 3-2. However, Sheron sealed the win for Hartlepool two minutes from time with a powerful shot from 30 yards out.

Wild praised his team's defensive resilience during the critical final 20 minutes, highlighting their ability to withstand pressure from Forest Green’s experienced side. “The biggest thing that pleased me was 75 to 95 minutes,” Wild said. “They have got top players, they have put us under pressure and in the hotel I talked about our ability to defend low, that will be the biggest thing that stops Forest Green and I thought we did that.” Reflecting on his first full week in charge following Hartlepool’s losing run, Wild emphasized renewed belief within the squad and appreciation for the support from fans, both in person and watching on television.

Meanwhile, Forest Green chairman Dale Vince addressed speculation over the club’s managerial situation following the recent departure of Robbie Savage. Despite the vacancy created, Vince stated that there is currently no job opening. “Nobody is in the frame. Nobody is connected to the job. At the minute, there is no vacancy,” he said, emphasizing confidence in the existing coaching staff, who collectively bring significant experience from the Premier League and Championship and maintain a close understanding of the players.

Vince acknowledged that while Luke Williams has been linked with the role, Forest Green is seeking stability beyond the typical “new manager bounce” that often accompanies appointments. He added that the club is aiming to adopt a different approach to management rather than continuing with the model of high-profile managers who are often perceived to be driven by ego, which he suggested may not always lead to the best decisions. Vince expressed a desire for a more balanced outcome as the club moves forward.