Sports editor Nick Loughlin's player ratings from Hartlepool United's 2 - 0 win over Morcambe.

HARTLEPOOL UNITED (4-3-3):

7 Bartlett: A very competent debut, busy in his penalty area and took command when he had to;

6 Duckworth: Left open and exposed at times on the right side because of Pool’s winger-less formation when the visitors attacked in the second half

6 Harrison: A slow start to the season, didn’t get going in the manner he is capable of

5 Worley: Got to grips with his opponent in more ways than one in the first half especially, but will be happy with an opening day clean sheet

6 Carroll: An athletic performance at left-back and put some vital blocks in when he had to. Look happier at full-back than wing back;

6 Featherstone: Had some freedom on the right side of a midfield three, and roamed around to pick up possession when and where he wanted

8 Magnay: Midfielder holding role is a new one, but he looked at home. Used the ball well, broke up attacks and kept it simple

7 Woods: Will be a big player for Pools this season with his ability to pick out passes and create openings in tight situations;

6 Fenwick: Pushed wide in a front three and grafted, without having a direct impact on the game

9 PAYTER: A goal, an assist and the captaincy. A perfect opening start to the new season for the front man

7 Bingham: Bright, lively and always looking to use his pace to get in and at the opposition defenders.

MORECAMBE (4-2-3-1): Roche 5; Wilson 5, Parrish 7, Edwards 6, Beeley 6; Murphy 5 (Kenyon 11, 6), Molyneux 6; ELLISON 7, Wildig 6 (Miller 71), Mullin 7 (Ryan 85); Devitt 7. Subs (not used): Thomspon (gk), McGowan, Kenyon, Goodall, Fleming.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Billy Paynter – showed what a solid signing he will be for Pools this season. A striker who knows how to lead the line