Pools head for Brighton

8:56am Friday 18th April 2008

BRIGHTON defender Tommy Elphick last night admitted problems between Hartlepool United and his club earlier in the season were "unfortunate".

Players from both sides clashed at the final whistle of the game in October, which the visitors won 2-1 with an injury-time goal. It was Pools' first game following the death of midfielder Michael Maidens and home strikers Richard Barker accused Elphick of being "inhumane" with his celebrations at the final whistle.

Both clubs were fined by the FA for their actions.

Barker could make his return to action tomorrow afternoon after a hamstring injury. If he is passed fit, Elphick could be his marker and the defender admitted: "I think that was just a very unfortunate occasion. You don't wish that on any club, to lose a player the way they did.

"There was a full house and it was pretty heated. Things were taken the wrong way and it all got blown out of proportion.

"Both clubs have put that behind them and we can move on and have a proper game of football on Saturday. There will still be some emotions from last time but it shouldn't spoil the game."

Barker will join his teammates on the haul south today. Sam Collins and Gary Liddle are also in the squad and a late decision will be made on their fitness.

Meanwhile, New Zealand Knights offcials remain keen on signing Joel Porter.

The Pools striker is out of contract this summer, although he is one of the players the club has the option of extending his contract under the terms of the current agreement.

Porter is keen to resolve his future, but boss Danny Wilson said last week that no negotiations were taking place until the chairman gives his approval.

NZ Knights chief executive Tony Pignata, who has spoken with Porter's agent, said: "Yes, Joel is someone we would like to get here but he still has an English league season to complete so we wouldn't expect a decision before early May. We're hopeful.''

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