PAST runaway leaders Hartlepool United have been struggling so much in recent weeks that Rushden and Diamonds could now pinch the Division Three title from their grasp.

Hartlepool, rightly tipped as one of the promotion favourites by many at the start of the season, have won just one of their last seven fixtures.

Boss Mike Newell, who took over from Chris Turner who left for Sheffield Wednesday during the season, has certainly not found life easy at the top of the table.

They recorded their last away win two months ago, 1-0 at Macclesfield, and have been defeated for three games on the trot on their travels.

But Hartlepool defeated Harriers 2-1 at the Victoria Ground in November and still possess one of the strongest all-round squads.

Former Premiership striker Gordon Watson, once of Sheffield Wednesday and Southampton, is back from a broken leg and made his first start for around six months in last Saturday's 0-0 home draw with promotion-chasing Bournemouth.

Ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Chris Westwood and former Leeds midfielder Mark Tinkler, who has 10 goals, are key figures.

Former Sheffield Wednesday starlet Richie Humphreys has netted 11 goals with Welsh forward Eifion Williams top poacher on 14.

Full-back Micky Barron is struggling with groin and hamstring problems so Paul Arnison stands by to take his place.