Braintree Town secured a decisive 3-0 victory over FC Halifax Town at the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium, demonstrating their attacking prowess and defensive solidity. The home side capitalised on early opportunities, establishing a lead that Halifax were unable to challenge.
The scoring began swiftly, with Lewis Walker finding the net just three minutes into the match, assisted by Elliot Thorpe. This early goal set the stage for a dominant performance from Braintree, leaving Halifax struggling to gain a foothold. Braintree maintained control throughout the first half, culminating in a second goal in the 33rd minute from Frankie Terry, further solidifying their advantage.
Halifax attempted to claw their way back into the game as the second half commenced, but Braintree’s defence remained resolute. Tactical substitutions were made by both sides: Sahid Kamara replaced John Akinde for Braintree in the 63rd minute, while Angelo Capello came on for Owen Bray for Halifax in the 69th minute, each aimed at injecting fresh impetus into their respective attacks. However, it was Braintree who once again found the breakthrough. In the 69th minute, Lewis Walker scored his second goal of the match, this time assisted by Tommy Smith, extending Braintree’s lead to an unassailable 3-0.
As the match progressed, tempers flared, resulting in a flurry of yellow cards. Marley Marshall-Miranda and Thierry Latty-Fairweather were both cautioned in the 58th minute, followed by Aidan Francis-Clarke, Tommy Smith, Josh Hmami, Chay Cooper and Dylan Crowe later in the game, reflecting the increasing frustration as Halifax desperately tried to salvage something from the match. Further substitutions followed, including Alan Judge replacing Fletcher Hubbard for Braintree in the 70th minute, and David Kawa replacing Thierry Latty-Fairweather for Halifax in the 81st minute, as both managers sought to influence the game’s final stages.
This victory propels Braintree to the top of the English National League standings with 3 points, marking a promising start to their campaign. Their position is secure due to their win against Rochdale. For FC Halifax Town, who are assured of a play-off quarter-final place, the defeat leaves them near the bottom with 0 points and much to consider.