HARTLEPOOL United right back Jack Ross has been ruled out for up to six weeks. He suffered ankle ligament damage in Saturday's defeat at Stockport and is likely to be sidelined until April.

Ross left Edgeley Park on crutches and has undergone a scan. Assistant boss Martin Scott, who took charge of a Pool XI that drew 0-0 with Irish League champions Shelbourne yesterday, revealed: "Jack will be out for four to six weeks, which is disappointing.

"He's got some damage to his ankle and it's a blow. We've had a few injuries come along at once.

"But it is a chance for Micky Barron. He played the first-half against Shelbourne, which was always the plan. He took a knock, but there's no damage and he will be fit for the weekend."

Hugh Robertson played the full game and Scott added: "Hugh is not 100 per cent - he's still suffering a bit of pain in his foot and he needs some fitness work and games.''

Yesterday's game was played at Chester-le-Street's Riverside complex after the Billingham Town pitch was deemed unfit.

Last year, Shelbourne beat Pool 3-0 and Scott said: "It was a good run out for the team. We've had two games in two days, with the reserves playing at Walsall on Monday.

"It was ideal as a pre-season game for Shelbourne. It's a bit disappointing with the weather forcing us to move the game, but hopefully we can continue the arrangement next year.

"It was short notice, but it's credit to the Riverside that they helped us out at short notice.

"It was competitive and niggly and ideal for them. Monday was a young team, but drawing 2-2 was a great result. It's tough because we've a few injuries and are down to the bare bones.

"A few of the young lads have done well this week and it's important because they may be ready to step up to the first-team.''

Matty Robson almost won the game for Pool in the closing minutes, crashing a shot off the bar. Shelboure, who spent last week at the La Manga training camp in Spain, went closest when Jim Provett saved well from former Wolves striker Glen Crowe.

Pool: Provett, Craddock, Barron, Low, Robertson, Istead, Fox, Maidens, Robson, Daly, Appleby.

Read more about Hartlepool here.