Pools beat Tranmere 2-0 at Victoria Place on Friday night thanks to a double strike from Adam Boyd, the first time they've managed to win a game in the end of season promotion play-offs.
Caretaker boss Martin Scott insists Hartlepool are still not favourites to progress to the final at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.
He said: "Tranmere are the big club, and they have got the quality players.
"It went well, but we are not getting carried away. We know it is going to be tough at Prenton Park."
Rovers manager Brian Little added: "It's going to be hard work for us now, they scored goals at periods when we looked comfortable.
"At home we will have a go, and give them a game."
Sheffield Wednesday hold a slim advantage over Brentford in the other play-off semi-final.
Jon-Paul McGovern rifled in an early effort to set up a tantalising second leg at Griffin Park.
Bees boss Martin Allen said: "It is only half-time, we go in 1-0 down but we can play better.
"The atmosphere was unbelievable, but at Griffin Park we will keep calm and won't panic."
Wednesday travel to Brentford on Monday, while Tranmere host Hartlepool on Tuesday.
In the battle to join Scunthorpe in League One, Lincoln host Macclesfield on Saturday night. Southend meet Northampton on Sunday.