Lee Clark 'disappointed' and 'frustrated' following Hartlepool United's defeat to Sutton United

Pools, who made the long trip to South London having won each of their opening two National League matches, were on the wrong end of their first defeat of the new campaign at Gander Green Lane.

In truth, Clark's side never really managed to get to grips with Sutton's pace, power and physical prowess, shipping two poor goals inside the opening half an hour.

While a defensive error from the hosts allowed Corey McKeown, the one bright spot from an otherwise underwhelming showing in South London, to pull one back before the break, Pools failed to create a clear-cut opening in the second half and could have few complaints at heading back to the North East empty handed.