Latics beaten at Hartlepool

Latics fell to a 2-1 defeat at Hartlepool

Latics' National League promotion hopes suffered a setback thanks to a 2-1 New Year's Day defeat at Hartlepool.

Anthony Mancini struck a winner early in the second half as Hartlepool came from behind to secure their victory.

Josh Lundstrom had fired the visitors ahead with a superb volley after 20 minutes at the Prestige Group Stadium.

Pools, who went close early on through veteran Gary Madine, equalised before the break when Luke Waterfall headed home his first goal of the season following a free-kick.

Mancini put the hosts ahead when he turned in a David Ferguson cross in the 53rd minute and goalkeeper Adam Smith ensured they held on with a fine save from Mike Fondop.

Latics boss Micky Mellon said: "We just didn't find a way to make the impact that we needed from the players that have been good for us.

"Those players just didn't find that way today.

"We're on the end of a really good run of league performances so it's disappointing.”

Latics are back in action next Tuesday night (7th) when they travel south to Eastleigh.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.