BEN Clark believes Hartlepool United can relax, enjoy their football, and ensure they are crowned champions.

Pools secured promotion with three games to go after winning at Wycombe on Saturday.

Walsall's late winner at Notts County means the Saddlers will also go into League One and keeps them just two points behind Pools, who play Notts County at Victoria Park on Friday night before Walsall face Bury at home the next day.

"We kept another clean sheet and that's 22 for the season, which is a great record and one we can be proud of,'' said Clark. "Now we've got to kick on and make sure we win the league.

"We can relax a bit now the pressure is off us and we are promoted - that was always our first aim - and now we can think about winning the title.''

The former Sunderland defender, a mainstay alongside Micky Nelson at the back this season, added: "It's a great feeling, a fantastic achievement. It's been what we wanted all season and it's been a real squad effort.

"It's not just about the lads who play every week, it's about all the players in the squad.

"I'm absolutely delighted for everyone at the club, it's been a big effort and hard work, but worth it all.

"Richie (Barker) got another goal and what a vital one again and he's been brilliant since he came to us in January. And I'm delighted that Joel (Porter) got back out on the pitch again as well. It's been a difficult season for him with injuries, but now he's got something to celebrate.

"It's a great club to be involved with. We've all enjoyed the season so much and now we want to cap it off by winning the league.

"I've been here three seasons now and promotion is something to enjoy and celebrate.''

Pools' final away game at Rochdale, a week on Saturday, has been made all-ticket, with Pools handed over 3,000 seats.

Pools reserves were 5-0 winners at Lincoln City yesterday with goals from David Foley, Joel Porter, Michael Mackay and a brace from Michael Rae.