The Eagles progressed into the Semi-Finals of the FAWNL cup after an intense comeback in the second half, coming back to win despite being 1-2 down at half time. 

The game started with both teams having equal attacking threat and possession, it seemed as if the game could have gone either way in the opening stages.

A free kick was won by Huddersfield early on as they looked to break the deadlock, Kate Mallin took the free kick but found only the hands of Becky Flaherty in the Halifax goal.

Huddersfield did eventually break the deadlock in the 23rd minute, Freya Walton latched onto a loose ball to finish calmly while unmarked. 0-1.

Halifax answered back in a matter of mere minutes, a free kick won by Halifax was delivered into a dangerous location by Ellie White, finding Lucy Sowerby who fought to get her head on the beautifully delivered ball, putting her body on the line for the goal. 29th minute, 1-1.

Huddersfield didn’t let the goal deter them from coming back, keeping their heads high, they found another goal through Yasmin Mason in the 43rd minute. An important goal before half time to make it 1-2 to the visiting terriers.

Half Time: Halifax 1 – 2 Huddersfield Town.

The second half saw a much improved Halifax side, as if the team received a much needed team talk in the changing room. They came out and dominated the early parts of the game, with big chances coming within minutes of each other.

Debutant Britt Sanderson was particularly impressive with her exceptional vision and determination, her passing was top notch and the main reason for Halifax’s attacks.

Halifax found the equaliser in the 60th minute, a magnificent piece of play saw Sanderson make it past the keeper to square the ball through two defenders, finding Ellie White who made no mistake of the finish. 2-2. 

After finding the equalising goal, Halifax’s sights were now set on getting the winner, they pushed on, pressing the ball and seeing out any danger that came their way. 

The high press paid off, when Courtney Willis capitalised on a keeper error, leading to her being fouled in the penalty area, winning a penalty for Halifax. It was Sanderson who took the penalty, sending the keeper the wrong way to earn her first goal for the club on her debut. 75th minute, 3-2.

There was a late threat amassed by Huddersfield, but the Halifax defence managed to ride the storm, with Shauna Legge and Issy Dean fighting to keep their lead.

The referee blew an end to the game, much to the elation of the home support. 

Full Time: Halifax 3 – 2 Huddersfield Town.

Manager Rob Mitchell gave his thoughts after the game:

“I think being 2-1 down at half time, we felt a bit disappointed because we played really well but the girls showed determination and desire to win the game.”

“I think it’s the first time we’ve come up against Huddersfield and we’ve been better, before it was tight games where we stuck it out until the end.”

Halifax will play Hashtag United in the Semi-Finals of the FAWNL Cup on February 25th. 

What’s next for Halifax?

Halifax will travel to Stourbridge on 4th February at 2pm where we return to league action!

Follow @halifaxfcwomen on X to see information on venues and ticket prices!

#FlyTogether