A dramatic match at the Gateshead International Stadium concluded with FC Halifax Town securing a 2-1 victory over Gateshead, in a game heavily influenced by penalties and tactical substitutions. Referee James Westgate oversaw the National League encounter, which offered numerous talking points as both teams fought for dominance.
The first half was a cautious affair, with Kenton Richardson of Gateshead receiving a yellow card in the 11th minute for a foul. The scoring was initiated in the 33rd minute when Kain Adom successfully converted a penalty for Gateshead, awarded after Shaun Hobson of Halifax was booked for the foul. However, Halifax responded swiftly. Four minutes later, Jay Turner-Cooke equalised from the penalty spot for Halifax, following a foul that also resulted in Jevon Mills being cautioned.
Adam Lakeland, the Halifax manager, made an early tactical change, replacing Dylan Crowe with Jamie Cooke in the 20th minute, with the intention of adding more energy to the midfield. The first half concluded with the score level and a sense of anticipation hanging in the air.
The second half saw both teams searching for a decisive goal. In the 58th minute, Fenton John of Gateshead was cautioned for a foul. The crucial moment came in the 61st minute when David Kawa, assisted by Owen Devonport, scored to put FC Halifax Town ahead.
Alun Armstrong, the Gateshead manager, responded with a double substitution in the 70th minute, introducing Frank Nouble and Lucas Lowery to try and invigorate the attack. Halifax also made changes, including Will Hugill replacing Owen Bray in the 64th minute. In the 81st minute, Halifax made a triple substitution, with Thierry Latty-Fairweather, Jack Jenkins, and William Harris all entering the match. Gateshead immediately countered, replacing Fenton John with Callum Bone a minute later, followed by a double substitution in the 86th minute.
Despite Gateshead’s late pressure and numerous substitutions, Halifax managed to maintain their lead, claiming a significant away victory.
The win elevates FC Halifax Town to 14th in the league standings with 12 points, while Gateshead are just behind them in 15th with 11 points.