The Newcastle United kid who could help make Hartlepool United history in National League play-off final – and one ex-Mag set to play key role

And he won’t be the only Magpies connection in the game, with former United and South Shields full-back Jamie Sterry set for a key starting role.

Hartlepool United will this afternoon face Torquay United at Bristol City’s Ashton Gate (kick-off 2pm) in a battle for a place back in the Football League.

Back in 2017, Pools crashed out of the Football League for the first time in their history, a run totalling 96 years.

And finally, at their fourth attempt, Pools made this season’s play-offs having finished in fourth place in the final fifth tier standings.

In their run to the final Dave Challinor’s men have beaten Bromley 3-2 at Victoria Park, with the play-off semi-final seeing them win at Stockport 1-0.

Playing a key role in their successful run to the final has been Magpies’ youngster Cass.

The central defender, who can also operate as a full-back, has impressed in his season-long loan, making a total of 37 appearances for Challinor’s side.

Cass, however, is likely to start today’s final on the Pools bench.

One player who is understood to be likely to start is former United first-team squad member Sterry, who has been a revelation since signing from the Mariners earlier this campaign. Sterry was released by United last summer.

For full coverage of the final check out our dedicated Pools website on sister paper the Hartlepool Mail. Also follow Dom Scurr and our HUFC Mail accounts on Twitter.

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