Late test for Austin

Hartlepool defender Neil Austin faces a late fitness test ahead of his side's clash at Leyton Orient.

Austin, who missed the midweek defeat at Notts County, is in a race to shake off a calf injury. Teenager Jack Baldwin slotted into the back four on Tuesday night for his first start of the season and is expected to continue if Austin fails to make it. Central defender Peter Hartley overcame a knock to play the full 90 minutes against Notts County and is likely to resume his partnership with Sam Collins. Teenage striker Luke James is pushing for his first league start of the season, with manager Neale Cooper to decide whether to retain James Poole up front alongside Steve Howard. Cooper, who has no other new injury or suspension worries, has confirmed midfielder Paul Murray, who impressed in midweek after replacing Poole at half-time, will be handed a starting role at the weekend.