Bitesize Prediction: Hartlepool vs AFC Fylde – 26/08/23

Competition: National League

Market: Both teams to score

Odds: 4/6 @ BetUS

In what could prove to be a lively National League affair on Saturday evening, Hartlepool will welcome AFC Fylde to the Suit Direct Stadium.

Starting with the hosts, while Hartlepool might have lost their League Two status last season, the Pools have enjoyed a stellar start to their National League return. While John Askey’s men might have opened the 2023/24 campaign with an action-packed 3-2 loss at the hands of Barnet on August 5th, the Durham-based outfit have come roaring back. Last seen putting in another lively display as they landed a 3-2 victory away at play-off dreamers Southend, the Blues have now won each of their last three appearances. Likely to still be boosted by their second-half comeback away in Essex last weekend, Hartlepool have quickly gained a reputation for their rollercoaster affairs. Notching eight strikes on their three-match winning run, Saturday’s hosts will now be looking to find some much-needed defensive resolve. Continuing on from their pre-season preparations, it should be highlighted that Askey’s side have seen each of their last six outings across all competitions finish with both teams finding the net.

As for the visitors, although AFC Fylde might have booked an immediate National League return last season, Adam Murray’s men have struggled to find much fifth-tier stability this time around. Despite clinching a crucial 2-1 victory against Kidderminster earlier in the month, the Coasters came crashing back down to earth last time out. Eventually suffering a stunning last-gasp collapse away at Wealdstone as they slumped to a 3-2 loss, the Lancashire-based outfit have mustered just a single win from their opening four National League showdowns. With their wobbly start to the season highlighted by an action-packed 4-2 loss at the hands of Chesterfield at Mill Farm, neutrals could be treated to another enjoyable affair here. It should be noted, with Saturday’s guests seeing each of their first four appearances finish with both teams getting on the scoresheet, we are backing a similar outcome this weekend.

Bet: Both teams to score at Hartlepool vs AFC Fylde 4/6 for Saturday’s National League battle @ BetUS