Halifax came from behind to earn themselves a point away from home. A fantastic finish by Maddie Oliver gave Halifax the boost they needed to amount a comeback.

The first 10 minutes of the game saw an even amount of possession, with both teams pushing to find the opener early on. 

It was Derby who struck first through Rhodes-Andrews after latching onto a cross from Jenkins, scoring in the 13th minute to claim an early lead. 

Halifax attempted to answer back, a huge chance to equalise in the 22nd minute went begging after a goalmouth scramble in the Derby box, Meg Boydell came very close. 

Rhodes-Andrews scored a second for Derby in the 43rd minute. Ward’s cross into the box found Rhodes-Andrews, where she made no mistake of the finish to make it 2-0 just before half time.

Half time: Derby County 2 – 0 Halifax FC Women

The second half started with Halifax looking to find the goal that would allow them to amount a comeback.

That goal came at a crucial moment in the game, Maddie Oliver with a stunning half volley on the edge of the box made it 2-1 in the 59th minute, hope for Halifax.

Derby were close to scoring another, but Wilcock was there to see the ball away from danger. 

The equalising goal that Halifax wanted came in the 73rd minute, courtesy of an excellent curling finish from Katie Ramsden thanks to an exceptional piece of play by Lucy Sowerby on the counter-attack. 

However, Derby answered back instantly as only a minute later, Rhodes-Andrews scored again after a cut-back ball in allowed her to tap home the goal to put Derby ahead once again in the 74th minute. 

Only three minutes later, Halifax were awarded a penalty which was slotted into the bottom left hand corner by Ellie White to equalise. A crazy 5 minutes of football, with three goals in such a small time frame.

A late counter attack from Halifax seemed dangerous, but was fended off well by the Derby defenders.

The referee blew an end to an intense game, both teams deserving of a point each.

Full time: Derby County 3 – 3 Halifax FC Women

Rob Mitchell spoke after the match:

“Derby were brilliant in transition, they were fantastic.”

“The second half, the players showed what they were about.”

“Maddie’s (goal) was top drawer.”

What’s next for Halifax?

Halifax are facing Burnley away on Thursday night at 7:45pm as the Eagles prepare for more league action against a tough opponent.

Follow: @halifaxfcwomen on X for important information and updates.