Bird is the word for Pools

New signing Ryan Bird was the hero as Hartlepool clawed the gap to safety back to six points with a 1-0 win over AFC Wimbledon.The 27-year-old, on loan from Cambridge, scored the winner on his debut midway through the second half to seal a vital win for the hosts.The game at Victoria Park was a poor encounter with few clear-cut chances created for either side, in the opening 45 minutes especially.Those that were were carved out by the visitors.Adedeji Oshilaja's header hit the crossbar while Alfie Potter's volley was blocked by David Mirfin as Pools fought hard to preserve a clean sheet.The second half was a far more lively affair, with both sides upping the tempo in search of victory.Pools were dealt a blow early on though, with playmaker Michael Woods stretchered off with a serious looking injury to his right leg after a firm but fair challenge from David Winfield.It seemed to galvanise Ronnie Moore's side with Bird netting from close range after 73 minutes to give Pools the lead.Jack Compton broke down the left flank and his inch perfect cross was turned in from two yards.Pools survived 12 minutes of added time to seal victory.