Sutton United make perfect start with third straight win as Agutter returns to the touchline

Sutton United made it three wins from three to open the National League season after seeing off Hartlepool United 2-1 on 23 August 2026, with manager Chris Agutter watching on from the dugout for the first time since his touchline ban was imposed.

The U's were sharp in the opening exchanges and led inside 20 minutes when Temi Babalola broke the deadlock. Manny Osadebe added a second just seven minutes later, giving Sutton a commanding two-goal cushion before the half-hour mark.

Hartlepool gave themselves a foothold when Corey McKeown pulled one back in the 35th minute, but Sutton held firm to see out the victory and pocket all three points.

The result is Sutton's third consecutive win of the young campaign, following earlier successes against Woking and Altrincham — both of which were secured while Agutter was absent from the touchline serving his ban. His return coincided with another positive result, though the squad had clearly shown little sign of struggling in his enforced absence.

For Hartlepool, it is an early setback as they look to find their footing in the fifth tier, while Sutton will head into the coming weeks as one of the early pace-setters in the National League.