MODEST Hartlepool boss Danny Wilson last night played down his award-winning role.

Wilson was named as League Two's manager of the month for the second time this season, when he won the award for February.

Pools' five consecutive victories last month extended their unbeaten run to 18 games. Three of the wins were in tricky games at Swindon, Torquay and Boston.

The League Two leaders also beat Walsall and Macclesfield at Victoria Park and they now head the table by three points.

Wilson beat Stockport's Jim Gannon, Shrewsbury's Gary Peters and Darlington's Dave Penney to the award.

But the Pools boss was quick to play down his part in the accolade and says it was a team effort.

"I'm delighted because it's recognition of how well the boys have done over this period of time," said Wilson, who was also nominated to win the League Two prize for December and January.

"We could have had it two or three times in the past, but it is particularly pleasing at this stage of the season because it means you're in a decent position in the league."

It is the second time Wilson has won the manager of the month award. The first time came in September following a spell of three wins in a week.

Pools' good fortunes changed following the presentation of the trophy and their form dipped. The Victoria Park club then failed to win any of their following six League Two fixtures. But Wilson dismissed any suggestions that the accolade was a poisoned chalice.

He added: "The only reason anyone loses a football game is because the performance, attitude or work ethic isn't as good as before.

"It's nothing to do with manager of the month that's for sure. It's down to us and what we do on the pitch."