Statistical Preview: Hartlepool United v Iron

Scunthorpe come into this fixture having won their last two games, and they sit in sixth place in the National League, in the play-off positions.

Hartlepool currently sit just outside the play-off spots in eighth place and have picked up eight points from their last five games.

Andy’s Bet Club’s football analyst will break down Hartlepool’s recent clash with Braintree to see what the statistics indicate about how they might set up against Scunthorpe.

Braintree Town vs Hartlepool United

Despite the 0-0 scoreline in this fixture, the game was a lot more exciting than the scoreline suggests, with both sides having plenty of shots and shots on target. 

Braintree marginally dominated possession in the match with a 54% share of the ball; however, Hartlepool had their fair share of territory and had 12 corners in the match.

The xG (Expected Goals) stats show that both teams created a number of high-quality chances. Braintree created an xG of 2.00 and Hartlepool posted 1.60.

Final Thoughts

Both sides match up fairly evenly when it comes to the pressure they apply when out of possession. Scunthorpe have a PPDA (Passes per Defensive Action) of 10.04 which is just below the average, and Hartlepool have a PPDA of 10.52.

The sides also match up evenly this season when it comes to ball possession. Scunthorpe have an average possession of 47.4% and Hartlepool have an average possession of 47.8%.

Scunthorpe have alternated between a 4-3-3 and a 4-2-3-1 this season, so it would be no surprise if they continue with this formation. Hartlepool have also played a lot of their football this year in a 4-2-3-1, but have also utilised a 3-4-1-2 on occasion, so it will be intriguing to see how they set up against an in-form Scunthorpe.

You can view expert Football Tips on Andy’s Bet Club, as well as a list of the best Free Bets too. 18+, Please Gamble Responsibly.