AFTER conceding just one goal in four games, Hartlepool United's upturn in fortunes can be put down to their defensive strength.

But now, with Adam Boyd back in the team and Joel Porter not far away, boss Paul Stephenson is confident that a rise up the League One table isn't far away.

Despite being unbeaten under the temporary boss, Pool remain at the wrong end of the table.

They go to Scunthorpe tomorrow and, with The Iron having moved up the ladder after two away wins in the past week, Stephenson says there is no lack of confidence in his camp.

Stephenson has got his side playing good football once again and said: "Supporters, especially North-East fans, know their football and know when their side has played good football like we try to do. They appreciate it and enjoy watching it as well. I knew that from the days when I played for Newcastle.

"It's effective at this level to pass the ball and play it around. I believe if you knock it forward then the centre halves will just gobble it up. It's about getting the ball up to the strikers and getting around the defences to create problems.

"I believe in what we are doing, the players do and I hope the fans do as well.''

Porter scored in Wednesday's 5-1 friendly win at Gretna, when Michael Proctor got three and Hugh Robertson blasted in a trademark free-kick from distance.

All three were making their returns from injury and Stephenson will see how they react in training today before deciding if any will be involved tomorrow.

"All players will tell you that they are fit and want to play,'' he said. "Now I've got to decide on whether they are.

"In the situation we are in, we cannot rush players back and see them break down.''

The Glanford Park pitch has been covered to try and prevent tomorrow's game falling victim to a forecast heavy frost.

* Pool's trip to Colchester has been rearranged for Tuesday, April 25, and will be their third last game of the season, followed by a trip to Brentford (April 29) and a home game with Port Vale (May 6).

Read more about Hartlepool here.