The Shay Stadium was the scene of a hard-fought English National League encounter, where FC Halifax Town emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Boston United. The home side secured the three points thanks to goals from Owen Bray and Cody Johnson.
The early exchanges were cautious, with both teams assessing their opposition. FC Halifax Town took the lead in the 18th minute. A well-constructed attack down the right flank culminated in Angelo Capello delivering a precise cross, which Owen Bray headed home past the Boston United goalkeeper. Minutes prior to the opening goal, Shaun Hobson of Halifax had received a yellow card for a foul.
Boston United responded to going behind. Their persistence was rewarded in the 25th minute when Ken Aboh found the back of the net, levelling the score at 1-1. Dylan Hill provided the assist, playing a pass through the Halifax defence for Aboh to finish. Earlier in the half, in the 21st minute, Greg Sloggett of Boston United was cautioned for a foul.
FC Halifax Town started the second half with increased intensity. Their pressure paid off just five minutes after the restart. Cody Johnson, who proved a consistent threat, received the ball from Will Smith and clinically finished to put Halifax back in front at 2-1.
Both teams continued to seek further opportunities. Boston United made a tactical substitution in the 71st minute, with Matty Carson replacing Alex Lankshear. As the game progressed, Halifax manager Adam Lakeland introduced Florent Hoti and Max Wright in the 78th minute, with Owen Bray and Will Hugill making way. Boston United reinforced their midfield in the 79th minute, with Paul Hurst bringing on Arjan Raikhy and Liam Waldock for Greg Sloggett and Dylan Hill respectively. In the closing moments, FC Halifax Town made further changes, introducing David Kawa for William Harris and Adam Alimi-Adetoro for Angelo Capello.
This victory moves FC Halifax Town up to eighth place in the English National League standings with 41 points from 27 games, having previously occupied ninth position. Boston United remain in 18th place, with 26 points from 28 games, having been 16th before the match. The result extends Halifax’s winning run to one game and their scoring streak to eight matches. Boston United are still searching for a win, having not secured victory in their last six outings.
