CHRIS Casper is backing his Bury youngsters to pep up the club's season.

The Shakers have dropped from League Two play-off contention down to 16th after a run of six games without a win.

And they could hardly have a tougher task tomorrow as they bid to end that run against a Hartlepool side unbeaten in the league in almost three months.

But young players such as Richie Baker and Marc Pugh seem to be thriving on the responsibility.

And Casper said: "The young lads are having to take responsibility and are having to grow up really quickly.

"It has been exciting to be a part of, because normally we wouldn't be bringing them on so quickly."

Casper has plenty of experience too, though, with keeper Andy Warrington recovering from a thigh strain to challenge Alan Fettis for a starting place at Victoria Park tomorrow.

Last season: Different leagues

Key opponent: Richard Barker - Striker scored last time out

Prediction: Hartlepool 1 Bury 1 - Bury will be hungry for a win after six straight games without one.

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You can get odd of 11/1 on a 1-0 win for Bury on Betfred. For all the latest odds from Betfred, click here.