Yorkshireman Scott Flinders moved to Pools during the summer of 2009 after a very promising early career had slowed a little. His form at his first club, Barnsley, earned him England under-20 caps and a six figure transfer to Crystal Palace, then managed by Peter Taylor. Flinders found it difficult to establish himself at Selhurst Park, and played more football during loan spells at Gillingham, Brighton and Falkirk than he did at his parent club. He enjoyed an excellent first season at The Vic, establishing himself as the undisputed number one for the first time in his career. A hand injury led to some time on the sidelines during his second year but he reestablished himself on recovery, playing the last few months of the season. In a match against Bournemouth in April 2011 he became the first Pools goalkeeper to score a Football League goal. For the next two years, Flinders was one of the most consistent performers at the club. He was the overwhelming winner of the Player of the Year award in what was a miserable relegation season in 2012/13.