Hartlepool United and Southend United meet at The Suit Direct Stadium, Hartlepool, County Durham on Saturday, Nov 28 at 6:30 PM with both clubs firmly in the mix for the European places in the National League. Just 3 points separate them in the standings.

Hartlepool United come into this fixture in mixed form (2W 0D 1L). Southend United, meanwhile, arrive in good form (3W 0D 0L recently) — actually the better-performing side in recent weeks. Hartlepool United head into this on the back of a defeat, while Southend United arrive off a win — momentum clearly with the visitors.

Head-to-head records offer little separation — Hartlepool United and Southend United have split their 10 meetings almost evenly (2W–5D–3W). Their last encounter ended in Hartlepool United won 4–3.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Hartlepool United a slight edge, but Southend United are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.