A National League encounter at the Crown Oil Arena saw FC Halifax Town secure a 2-1 victory over Rochdale in a closely fought contest. The match, characterised by tactical adjustments and moments of drama, ended with the visitors claiming all three points.
The first half saw both sides testing each other. FC Halifax Town took the lead in the 41st minute, with Josh Hmami scoring, assisted by William Harris. The Shaymen’s lead was maintained until the interval. During the first half, William Harris and Will Hugill of FC Halifax Town were cautioned.
At the start of the second half, Rochdale made a tactical substitution, replacing Connor McBride with Devante Rodney. However, FC Halifax Town extended their lead in the 54th minute. Hmami scored his second goal of the match, assisted by Jamie Cooke.
Rochdale responded six minutes later when Devante Rodney scored in the 60th minute, assisted by Sam Beckwith, reducing the deficit.
Both managers then sought to influence the game with substitutions. In the 67th minute, FC Halifax Town brought on David Kawa and Owen Devonport, replacing William Harris and Owen Bray respectively. Rochdale responded in the 70th minute with a double substitution, introducing Kevin Berkoe and Ethan Ebanks-Landell. A further change in the 71st minute saw Levi Amantchi replace Aidan Barlow.
In the closing stages, referee Scott Oldham issued a flurry of yellow cards. Devante Rodney, Kyron Gordon and Daniel Moss of Rochdale, along with Jamie Cooke of FC Halifax Town, were all cautioned. In the 81st minute, FC Halifax Town made further changes, with Jack Jenkins replacing Josh Hmami and Thierry Latty-Fairweather coming on for Angelo Capello. Rochdale made their final substitution in the 84th minute, bringing on Daniel Moss for Tarryn Allarakhia, while FC Halifax Town replaced Sean Tarima with Adam Alimi-Adetoro.
Rochdale’s attempts to find an equaliser were unsuccessful. FC Halifax Town defended to secure the victory. The match concluded with a late yellow card for Jamie Cooke in the 95th minute.
This result brings Rochdale’s winning streak to an end. FC Halifax Town will be encouraged by this victory.