A lightning-fast start from FC Halifax Town proved decisive at The Jakemans Community Stadium, as they secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Boston United. Andrew Oluwabori’s strike inside the first minute was enough to claim all three points for the visitors, leaving the home side stunned.
Mere seconds after the referee’s whistle, the Shaymen silenced the home crowd. A swift attacking move culminated in Oluwabori latching onto a through ball and calmly slotting the ball past the Boston goalkeeper, setting the tone for a frenetic opening period. Shaken by the early setback, Boston struggled to find their rhythm. Halifax, buoyed by their advantage, controlled possession and posed a constant threat on the counter-attack.
The first half became increasingly fragmented, with a flurry of yellow cards shown as both sides battled for control. Halifax’s Scott High was the first to be booked for a foul in the 29th minute, followed by Boston’s Finley Welch just before the half-time whistle. Despite the stop-start nature of the game, clear-cut chances were few and far between. Boston pressed for an equaliser, but the resolute Halifax defence repelled several promising attacks.
The second half continued in a similar vein, with both teams displaying plenty of endeavour but lacking the necessary cutting edge in the final third. The stream of bookings continued, with Adan George, Zak Mills, Jamie Cooke, Keaton Ward, and Michael Bostwick all receiving yellow cards. Both managers sought to change the dynamic of the game with a series of substitutions. Boston introduced fresh legs in midfield and attack, while Halifax opted for a more defensive approach to protect their slender lead.
The game’s pivotal moment arrived in the 90th minute. Adan George, already on a yellow card, received his marching orders for a second bookable offence, reducing Halifax to ten men. Despite their numerical disadvantage, the visitors resolutely held on to secure a valuable victory.
The result leaves Boston United struggling near the foot of the table, while Halifax Town climb to seventh. While the two sides haven’t met in the league for three seasons, Halifax will be delighted with their performance and the three points.