Franks at the double for Pools
Jonathan Franks' double ensured Paul Murray claimed his first win as Hartlepool manager when East Thurrock fell to a 2-0 loss in a drab FA Cup first-round clash at Victoria Park.
Murray has collected just one point from two games since taking the reins of a side bottom of the Football League.
But the visit of an Isthmian League Premier Division outfit proved a perfect opportunity to collect a maiden win, which Pools duly did thanks to Franks.
Patience was clearly imperative in sloppy conditions, yet the hosts almost fell behind in the 10th minute when Mitchell Gilbey cut inside from the left, only to see his low strike bounce back off the inside of the post.
But after over-committing during a succession of corners, East Thurrock fell behind when Franks counter-attacked up the middle and, instead of laying the ball off, fired a powerful shot into the bottom-left corner from outside the box.
There were fewer chances in the second period, although Pools threatened another goal as the impressive David Hughes produced a stunning stop to deny Franks from point-blank range.
A fine game for the goalkeeper would end in disappointment, though, as he spilt a Marlon Harewood cross to gift Franks a second with four minutes remaining.
Source: PA
