Promotion chasing Hartlepool United got their season off to a winning start with a 3-1 win at Carlisle.

Carlisle were hoping to celebrate the arrival of the clubs new owners but party-poopers Pools had other things on their mind and it was a comfortable victory for Chris Turner's side.

Pools' opener came two minutes before the break when the hard-working Mark Tinkler tapped the ball in from close range as the Carlisle defence went walkabouts.

Pools didn't have to wait long for number two, Ritchie Humphreys scoring to exercise the demons of last seasons play-off penalty miss when he scored from ten yards, side-footing in after a cross from substitute Paul Arnison found its way into his path.

Tinkler's second and Pools' third arrived on 71 minutes when Tinkler lashed in a low shot from the edge of the box.

Carlisle's consolation came via ex-Tow Law striker Brian Wake when he raced in behind the Pools defence and slotted past Anthony Williams.