A hard-fought 1-1 draw at Mill Farm saw AFC Fylde and Woking share the spoils in a National League encounter punctuated by tactical substitutions and a flurry of late bookings. Despite moments of promise, neither side could ultimately find the winner in a match that remained finely balanced throughout.
The opening half was a cagey affair, with chances at a premium. A booking for Fylde’s Ethan Mitchell in the 11th minute for a rash challenge was the only real action of note. Woking manager Michael Doyle signalled his intent early, introducing Lewis Walker for Harry Beautyman in the 24th minute – a substitution that would later prove crucial. The teams entered the break goalless, the match poised delicately.
The second half, however, sprang to life just four minutes after the restart. Nick Haughton gave AFC Fylde the lead, expertly finishing a well-weighted pass from Joe Riley. The goal galvanised both sides, injecting a much-needed sense of urgency into the proceedings. Woking responded with a double substitution just before the hour mark, bringing on Matt Ward and, significantly, laying the groundwork for their equaliser.
In the 64th minute, Woking’s earlier tactical switch paid dividends. Substitute Lewis Walker levelled the scores, applying a composed finish to a delivery from Dale Gorman. With the scores level, the game opened up, and both teams pressed for a winner. Fylde made a triple substitution in the closing stages, introducing Offrande Zanzala, Taelor O’Kane, and Charlie Jolley in an attempt to find a late breakthrough. Woking also made changes, bringing on Tom Leahy and Dion Kelly-Evans. While the flurry of substitutions disrupted the flow of the game, they also introduced an element of unpredictability. Late bookings for Fylde’s Gavin Massey and Woking’s Jamie Andrews added to the tension, but neither side could break the deadlock.
The draw leaves AFC Fylde in 20th position and Woking in 12th in the National League table. Woking have won both of their previous two meetings with Fylde in recent seasons.