Whiteley winner condemns Hartlepool to home defeat

Corey Whiteley’s second-half strike was enough for Ebbsfleet to earn a 1-0 win at Hartlepool.

Pools started well, with defender Andrew Davies screwing a volley wide, Jake Cassidy heading inches past the upright and Luke James not too far away with a well-struck drive.

Chances were at a premium for the remainder of the first half and Pools lost captain Davies to an ankle injury early in the second.

The visitors took the lead against the run of play in the 71st minute when Danny Kedwell played the ball through for Corey Whiteley and he slotted the ball past Scott Loach.

Hartlepool almost levelled immediately, but Paddy McLaughlin was denied by Nathan Ashmore.

The home side huffed and puffed but rarely threatened an equaliser as Ebbsfleet comfortably held on.