The Shay Stadium was the scene of a dramatic comeback as FC Halifax Town fought back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against Rochdale in the English National League. The pulsating encounter saw Rochdale seemingly in control until a late surge from the home side snatched a point.
Rochdale opened the scoring in the 15th minute. Devante Rodney found the net for the visitors, receiving a pass from Ryan East. This early goal set the tone for Rochdale, who appeared to dictate the pace of the match.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 84th minute through an own goal by Jevon Mills, extending their lead to 2-0. With just six minutes of normal time remaining, Rochdale looked set to claim all three points.
However, FC Halifax Town refused to be defeated. In the 87th minute, William Harris ignited hope for the home supporters, reducing the deficit to 2-1. This goal injected a renewed sense of urgency into Halifax’s play.
The drama continued into added time. In the 92nd minute, Tom Lavery completed a remarkable comeback for FC Halifax Town, netting the equaliser. His decisive strike ensured that the points would be shared.
The match saw several tactical changes. Rochdale made a substitution in the 41st minute, with Bryce Hosannah replacing Tobi Adebayo-Rowling. In the second half, Rochdale introduced Ian Henderson and Connor McBride in the 57th minute, with Devante Rodney and Emmanuel Dieseruvwe making way. Ryan East was replaced by Casey Pettit in the 77th minute. FC Halifax Town also made changes, bringing on Billy Waters for Will Hugill in the 78th minute. Later, Tyler Smith was introduced for Aidan Barlow, and David Kawa and Kieron Morris were brought on in the 83rd minute for Josh Hmami and Owen Bray respectively, as Halifax pushed for a way back into the game.
There were also a number of bookings. Josh Hmami and Cody Johnson of FC Halifax Town received yellow cards in the 64th and 70th minutes respectively. Rochdale’s Connor McBride was cautioned in the 72nd minute, and David Kawa of Halifax received a booking in the 95th minute.
Following this result, FC Halifax Town remain in eighth place in the National League table with 52 points from 35 games. They have secured 15 wins, 7 draws, and 13 losses. Rochdale continue their strong league campaign, sitting in second place with 79 points from 33 games, boasting a record of 25 wins, 4 draws, and 4 losses. Their form includes an 11-game unbeaten streak.
