Hartlepool United head coach Lee Clark has demanded a 'no-fear mentality' from his players ahead of their National League clash with Eastleigh on Friday night. The call comes after a 2-1 defeat to Sutton United last time out, which followed victories over Barrow and Aldershot Town to start the campaign. As of 26 August 2026, Hartlepool sit 8th in the National League with six points from three games, scoring five goals and conceding four.
What mentality does Lee Clark want?
Lee Clark is clear about the approach he wants from his Hartlepool United side. "It’s a no-fear mentality," the head coach told the Hartlepool Mail. "It’s no fear in possession and to have great belief in yourself." This demand follows a setback against Sutton United, which interrupted a perfect start to the season. Clark believes the quality within his squad is sufficient to handle the challenges of a long National League season, a belief he will need his players to share on the pitch against Eastleigh.
The team's current league standing provides a solid foundation. With a record of two wins and one loss, they are just three points behind early leaders Southend United. You can track their progress and the wider title race on our standings page. Clark's focus is on ensuring his team's mindset matches their potential as they aim to close that gap.
How will Hartlepool cope with absences?
The squad will be tested immediately, with two key players missing the last match and likely unavailable for the Eastleigh fixture. On-loan Chelsea goalkeeper Max Merrick and winger Jack Nolan were both absent for the Sutton defeat. Nolan's situation is particularly concerning, as he has been unable to train properly for a couple of weeks and did not train at all last week.
Clark acknowledged the impact of losing such players. "Obviously Jack is someone who can make a difference in a game so you will always miss someone of his and Max’s quality," he said. However, the manager's public message remains one of confidence in the depth of his roster. He insists the group has enough talent to step up and perform, turning a problem into an opportunity for others to impress. Fans can review the full available personnel on our squad list.
What does this mean for the Eastleigh game?
Friday's match against Eastleigh represents a quick chance for Hartlepool United to respond. The defeat to Sutton showed vulnerabilities that Clark will be eager to address. Implementing his demanded 'no-fear' approach will be critical, especially if the team has to navigate another game without Merrick and Nolan. The objective is clear: return to winning ways and maintain pressure on the teams above them in the table.
The early-season data shows a team capable of scoring goals but also one that can be breached. Their +1 goal difference reflects this balance. Success will depend on which version of Hartlepool turns up at Victoria Park. A victory would not only consolidate their top-half position but also demonstrate the resilience Clark is asking for. The full run of upcoming fixtures is available on our fixtures schedule.
Hartlepool's campaign is still in its infancy, but Friday's game carries importance for momentum. Clark has set the tone by publicly outlining the required mentality. Now his players must translate those words into action on the pitch against a competitive Eastleigh side, using their current league position as a platform to build from.
