Heartbreak for FC Halifax Town at The Shay Stadium as two injury-time goals condemned them to a dramatic 2-1 defeat against York City. The home faithful had erupted in the 14th minute when Jamie Cooke gave Halifax a lead that they would hold for the majority of the match.
Halifax, buoyed by recent victories against Tamworth and Boston United, began brightly, dominating possession and fashioning several promising opportunities. Cooke’s well-taken finish capped off this early period of dominance and provided just reward for their efforts. York, however, gradually began to assert themselves, their midfield increasingly influencing the tempo of the game. While the Halifax defence held firm, the visitors’ second-half substitutions revitalised their attack.
As the match entered its closing stages, both sides pressed for a decisive goal, stretching the play and creating a tense atmosphere. Halifax introduced fresh legs in an attempt to preserve their slender advantage. However, it was York who broke the deadlock in the 91st minute. Malachi Fagan-Walcott, already on a yellow card, latched onto a Daniel Batty assist to level the scores, silencing the home crowd.
The drama, however, was far from over. Deep into added time, York launched another attack. Callum Howe delivered a crucial assist to Ollie Pearce, who slotted home the winner in the 96th minute, sparking wild celebrations amongst the travelling York support. Pearce’s jubilant reaction earned him a yellow card. For the home fans, the late goals were a devastating blow, leaving them to rue what might have been. The final whistle confirmed a remarkable turnaround and a painful defeat for Halifax.
The victory strengthens York City’s position at the top of the National League table, while Halifax Town remain mid-table. The result reverses a recent trend in this fixture, with Halifax having been unbeaten in their previous four encounters with York City.