Fleetwood had been on a five-match losing run, with interim boss Lawlor taking charge after Pete Wild’s departure.

Harrogate, managed by Simon Weaver, extended their winless league run to 18 games and suffered a ninth consecutive home defeat, despite a spirited performance from a young squad.

Lawlor praised the energy and graft that secured the three points, saying the team must sustain these standards across the season.

Lawlor said there was markedly more energy in this performance than in the previous eight weeks, framing it as a positive foundation after a tough spell.

Fleetwood took the lead through Ched Evans in first-half stoppage time, before Aiden Marsh leveled for Harrogate in the 81st minute, his first goal for the club and ending a prolonged home league drought.

Weaver defended his young squad, arguing they were not far off and could be proud of their display, with potential long-term benefits for player development.

The victory ended Fleetwood’s five-match losing run and underscored the collective graft and resilience in the dressing room.

Both sides were seeking a response after poor runs, with Fleetwood aiming to restart momentum and Harrogate hoping to climb off the bottom of League Two.

The result kept Harrogate at the bottom of the table, continuing their ongoing struggles under Simon Weaver.

Lawlor stressed Fleetwood represents a hardworking town and demanded high energy, desire, and character from his players, signaling consistency of standard regardless of badge.

He reiterated the need for higher energy and performance compared with recent weeks, tying it to the club’s identity and expectations.

The match coincided with the end of Pete Wild’s tenure as Fleetwood manager, marking a managerial transition for the club.