In a dramatic late flourish at St. James Park, Brackley Town snatched a point from the jaws of defeat against FC Halifax Town, courtesy of a stoppage-time penalty. The English National League fixture, played under the lights on a chilly evening, ultimately ended 1-1.
The first half was a cagey affair, characterised by a flurry of early yellow cards. Brackley Town’s Ben Wodskou was booked within the opening minute for a foul, swiftly followed by FC Halifax Town’s Shaun Hobson receiving a similar caution just moments later. The pattern of robust defending continued, with Zak Lilley and Scott Pollock of Brackley Town also finding their names in the referee’s notebook before the interval. FC Halifax Town’s Will Smith also picked up a yellow card. Tactical adjustments were evident from the visitors in the 42nd minute when Will Smith was replaced by Jevon Mills.
The second half followed a similar pattern for much of the duration, with both sides struggling to carve out clear-cut chances. The defences held firm, and it appeared the match was destined for a goalless draw. However, as the clock ticked past the 88th minute, drama unfolded. FC Halifax Town were awarded a penalty, and William Harris stepped up to convert, coolly sending the ball into the net to make it 0-1.
But football had one final twist. In the dying embers of the game, deep into added time, Brackley Town were presented with a lifeline. A penalty was awarded to the home side, and Shane Byrne held his nerve to dispatch the spot-kick in the 93rd minute, levelling the scores at 1-1.
The substitutions in the second half reflected the tactical chess match unfolding. Brackley Town introduced Kian Harratt and Morgan Roberts in the 69th minute. FC Halifax Town responded with Kieron Morris and Angelo Capello in the 75th minute. Brackley Town made further changes in the 89th minute, bringing on Jack Price and Connor Hall.
The draw leaves Brackley Town in 18th place in the National League table with 33 points from 29 games, while FC Halifax Town remain in 7th place with 48 points from 31 games. While FC Halifax Town will rue conceding a late penalty after looking set for victory, Brackley Town will celebrate a hard-fought point earned through sheer resilience.
