‘We’ve fell short’: Hartlepool United defender assesses season after ‘rollercoaster’ final day defeat against Boston United

Hartlepool United defender Max Kouogun admitted his side have “fell short” in their Enterprise National League season after a “rollercoaster” 3-1 defeat away to Boston United on the final day. 

Kouogun’s second-half header put Hartlepool in front at the Jakemans Community Stadium – but three goals in quick succession saw Boston claim the victory as Pools dropped to a ninth-place league finish. 

While the tally of 68 points is the club’s highest in a season since being promoted to the Football League in 2020/21, the North East side ended 13 points behind seventh-place Forest Green Rovers in the final play-off spot. 

“It was a bit of a rollercoaster of a game. It probably sums up our season, to be honest,” Kouogun told Hartlepool United club media. 

“[There’s a] mixture of emotions. A lot of grey areas. I think collectively we’ve fell short.  

“We didn’t get into the play-offs and accomplish the mission that was set out at the start of the season, so ultimately, I don’t think you can call it a successful season.  

“It’s difficult to put it down to one individual thing. It’s probably been a combination of multiple things, but they’re all excuses.

“Each individual has got to ask themselves – did you do enough this season to be in the play-offs? 

“But I think it’s time to put a full stop there, look ahead, and see what the future holds. 

“With the new ownership, hopefully it’s going to be a positive era for Hartlepool.”