Hartlepool Rovers are back on home soil this weekend as they host second‑placed Houghton, 2pm kick off. After a mixed January in which they recorded one win, two draws, and one defeat, Rovers are yet to play a fixture in February due to postponements and Sedgefield hosting a cross‑country event.
The disrupted schedule and January dip mean Rovers currently sit sixth in the table. With Barnard Castle leading the league with a perfect record, Rovers remain part of the chasing pack. Despite their position, a win tomorrow followed by victory in their game in hand would put them firmly back in contention for second place. As ever in this unpredictable league, nothing is guaranteed, with every side capable of beating another on their day.

Team News
Rovers welcome back several familiar faces for the clash. Kev Maguire returns at hooker, while co‑captain Jack Gunn is back at number 8. He is joined in the back row by Dan Charters. Corey Railton returns at scrum‑half, which allows Craig Vincent to switch to his preferred openside flanker role.
In the backs, former captain Ste Barnfield makes his return from a long‑term injury. Livewire colt Alec Bramfitt comes onto the wing, bringing an abundance of pace to the side.

Club Events
Before the match, the club will be hosting tree planting at the ground, starting at 10am. All supporters are encouraged to come along and help improve the local environment.

Later in the evening, the clubhouse hosts a 90s rave night on Saturday evening. Expect bright clothes, whistles, and plenty of MC‑ing as the club rounds off the day in style.