[1] During pre-season, Hartlepool played a testimonial for the club's record appearance maker Ritchie Humphreys against local side Sunderland.

[1] Hartlepool twice took the lead thanks to goals by Adam Boyd and James Brown but were pegged back late in the match to draw 2–2.

Six consecutive home defeats was a club record and signalled the end of Mick Wadsworth's tenure as Hartlepool manager.

[3] This win against Rochdale was followed up with an impressive away point at Sheffield Wednesday and then a comprehensive 4–0 home victory against rivals Carlisle United which gave hopes for a late play-off charge.

Following the conclusion of the season, Cooper opted to release experienced players such as Adam Boyd and James Brown.