Newport County V Hartlepool at Rodney Parade - Match Preview




Blow for Pipe

Newport will be without David Pipe as they look to move into the League Two play-off places with victory against Hartlepool.


The Exiles are on a high after dumping Portsmouth out of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy on Tuesday night but the only negative from a memorable evening was Pipe's straight red card for a tackle on Ricky Holmes.


Manager Justin Edinburgh is mulling over an appeal but if the former Spurs defender decides against contesting the decision Pipe will miss their next three matches.


On-loan Cardiff defender Adedeji Oshilaja made himself an instant hero with a goal on his home debut and he looks set to start again against Pools on Friday night.


Hartlepool boss Colin Cooper may opt to make changes as his side prepare for their third game in six days.


Cooper named the same starting line-up for last week's home FA Cup win over Notts County and the midweek Johnstone's Paint Trophy defeat to Rotherham and has no major new injury worries.


Winger Jack Compton is hoping to return to the squad, while midfield duo Antony Sweeney and Brad Walker are among those who could be recalled to the starting XI.


Defender Christian Burgess, on loan from Middlesbrough, could also feature again after missing the FA Cup tie as he did not have permission to play.


Source: PA

Source: PA