The Silverlake Stadium was the scene of a pulsating encounter that ultimately saw FC Halifax Town edge out Eastleigh in a seven-goal thriller. The match defied defensive solidity, with both sides showcasing attacking intent, resulting in a breathless contest that kept the small but vocal crowd on the edge of their seats.
FC Halifax Town drew first blood in the ninth minute. A well-placed ball from David Kawa found William Harris, who made no mistake in converting to give the visitors an early advantage. Eastleigh, however, responded positively to falling behind. Their persistence paid off in the 27th minute when Samuel Pearson levelled the score. Archie Harris provided the assist, setting up Pearson to find the net and restore parity.
The visitors, undeterred, regained their lead just before the interval. In the 40th minute, a neat interchange saw Thierry Latty-Fairweather assist William Harris for his second goal of the afternoon, sending FC Halifax Town into the break with a slender 2-1 lead.
The second half continued in a similar vein, with both teams looking to impose themselves. FC Halifax Town extended their lead in the 60th minute, courtesy of a goal from substitute Florent Hoti, who had been introduced earlier in the first half. Adam Alimi-Adetoro provided the assist for Hoti’s strike, making it 3-1 and seemingly putting the visitors in a commanding position.
However, Eastleigh refused to capitulate. They rallied in the closing stages, and their efforts were rewarded in the 80th minute when Lloyd Humphries converted a penalty, reducing the deficit to 3-2. Despite a late surge from the home side, FC Halifax Town held firm to secure a vital three points.
This victory propels FC Halifax Town up the English National League table, strengthening their position in the playoff places. They now sit comfortably in seventh, accumulating 47 points from 29 matches. Meanwhile, Eastleigh remain in mid-table obscurity, occupying 16th place with 31 points from their 28 outings, a result that continues their recent run of three consecutive defeats.
