CRAIG HIGNETT says defeat to Barrow further highlighted why Hartlepool United are set for another busy summer.

Barrow ended their run of five without a win with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Pools, with the former Middlesbrough No 2 and player critical of the effort of his team.

The hosts nearly made the perfect start when Jamie Philpot went through, but he struck the post and Jack Hindle failed to convert on the rebound.

Barrow went close again minutes later when John Rooney released Hindle, but Scott Loach tipped his effort wide.

Ian Evatt was forced into an early change when Dior Angus succumbed to injury and his replacement, Josh Kay, sensationally scored with his first touch, a spectacular overhead kick into the top corner.

Loach thwarted Rooney in the second half, but Kay's effort had deservedly secured the three points.

"I am hugely frustrated," said Hignett. "I said before the game we were not at it in the warm up. I mentioned it to the players. I said you're not on the beach yet, I want a proper performance.

"We were second best all over. Fair play to Barrow they were better than us - more craft, more guile.

“If you don't want to run about as much as the other team you will struggle against anyone. We didn't play like we train.”

He told BBC Tees: "We know where we are. Games like this highlight that. It is up to me to improve us as a squad."

Hartlepool: Loach; Kioso, Kerr, Donaldson, Amos (Noble 46), Edgar, Featherstone, Holohan (Hawkes 70), Molyneux, James (Muir 84), Kabamba. Subs (not used): Anderson, Bale