PAUL MURRAY hailed the reliability of his old Hartlepool United heads after securing a passage into the second round of the FA Cup.

Pools beat East Thurrock United of the Isthmian League at Victoria Park to secure a spot in this evening’s televised draw.

Without the services of loan players Charlie Wyke and Scott Harrison, experienced defenders Sam Collins and Neil Austin, along with midfielder Nicky Featherstone, gave Pools a strong platform.

And Murray, confident of making two more signings this week after signing striker Scott Fenwick last week, said: “This game is a step forward, a clean sheet is major for us. When was the last time Hartlepool came back from trailing like we did last week? That was a difficult tie.

“Look what happened to Exeter who lost on Friday night. I said to the lads that I hoped they had watched that game. Warrington scored early and held on, they had something to keep and did it. When Thurrock hit the post I thought ‘bloody hell’ I knew we would create chances, but it was about taking them.

“I know what I will get from Sam and Aussie. I have to go into the games to come, Southend next weekend, with certain players fiving me seven out of ten every week. All season they have been getting fives and the odd seven.

“I need consistency and I will get that. The players I’m trying to get in will be the same.’’

Featherstone impressed in central midfield, keeping possession for Pools throughout and Murray said: “It’s pleasing to see Nicky do well, it’s an opportunity for him. He’s an assured head in the middle of the park and sees a pass, plays it in front of people. He knows what to do.

“We couldn’t play Scott or Charlie and we would have been stronger with them in the side.

“Franksy was a dilemma for me. I was always taking Sidney off, but I played him on the wing and he did what I’ve been asking him to do, get across the front and he’s been good and reacted to what I’ve asked of him.

“I thought Woodsy did well when he came on. We counter attacked well and we can do that against a League team too. We have options now.

“Nicky passes the ball well and keeps us ticking over, it’s what I used to do – but he’s not as tough as me!

“To get someone with steel and be good on the ball it’s difficult to come down to our level at the bottom so you get the best you can and I think I’ve got the best I can.’’