Hartlepool just managed to grab their first win in seven games in a hectic 4-3 victory against League One rivals Southend on Tuesday night.

Both teams were on target with well-taken penalties in the first half. Richard Barker struck first, but Southend hit back with a spot-kick of their own on the half hour, Steve Hammell following Barker's example and hammering his shot in after a foul on Mark Gower.

Two James Brown goals in six minutes early in the second half gave Hartlepool control. His first came after 47 minutes when he drilled a low shot home from 15 yards. And he was in the same place after 53 minutes when Barker's shot was blocked, pouncing to volley in the rebound.

But Southend narrowed the gap in the 82nd minute when Gower tapped in, only for home sub Antony Sweeney to make it 4-2 on 89. Tommy Black finished the scoring.