Lee Clark hails 'terrific' Neo Eccleston after versatile defender impresses in Hartlepool United's win over Woking

Having missed last week's disappointing defeat to Halifax Town through suspension, the 22-year-old was back in the Pools side ahead of the visit of a Cardinals outfit who have endured a challenging start to the new National League season.

With pressure already beginning to mount on Pools following a dismal run of three successive defeats, Saturday's game felt like one Clark's side simply had to win.

While it might not have been a vintage performance, Pools got over the line thanks to Chris Popov's slightly fortuitous 57th minute effort, with the striker bundling home Brooklyn Ilunga's low cross to score his first goal at Victoria Park.