Hartlepool United FC 1 : 1 Oxford United - Hylton spoils Moore's Pools party

Posted Sunday, December 21, 2014 by PA

A monumental week for Sky Bet League Two basement club Hartlepool ended in anti-climatic fashion as Danny Hylton earned Oxford a 1-1 draw at Victoria Park.

Six points adrift of second bottom, Pools were given reason for cheer on Tuesday when a takeover was followed by the exciting appointment of Ronnie Moore as manager.

It appeared Moore would enjoy a winning start when Joe Ironside put Hartlepool ahead just after the break, only for Hylton to earn a share of the spoils for Oxford.

The hosts dominated the opening period and almost took the lead on the stroke of half-time when Marlon Harewood was denied by the on-rushing Ryan Clarke following good work from Jonathan Franks.

But soon after Franks had seen a fine volley turned around the post, the home side took a 53rd-minute lead as Ironside fired home from Sidney Schmeltz's fine through-ball.

Oxford responded impressively and almost levelled when Hylton was denied by Scott Flinders from close range.

The striker made no mistake when his next chance came, sweeping home his 13th goal of the campaign from Wes Burns' low cross.

Franks almost won it for Hartlepool in the dying moments, yet Clarke produced a stunning low save to ensure Oxford left with a point.