Halifax have progressed into the next round of the FAWNL cup after fending off a late comeback attempt by Leeds United. 

By Jack Snaith

Halifax FC Women advanced into the next round of the FAWNL cup in a seven goal thriller and with Halifax finishing the game with nine players. 

It was the Eagles who struck first through club captain, Shauna Legge. A shot by Watson was initially parried away only to find Legge who smashed it in from close range to give Halifax the lead seven minutes into the game, the perfect start for Halifax on the road.

Only four minutes later, debutant Meg Boydell scored from a free kick into the bottom left corner to put Halifax two goals ahead after 11 minutes.

The Eagles enjoyed some fantastic football, having dominated the game in possession as well as having plenty of chances. Skipper Shauna Legge had a fantastic game, with a goal and a masterful performance in defence and when she pushed forward on the attack.

Halifax added to their lead right on the cusp of half time, with a goal from Willis on her debut for the club, a huge goal and a successful first half for the debutants.

The referee blew for half time, signalling an end to a dominant first half by the Eagles, who found themselves three goals ahead.

Half time: Leeds United 0 – 3 Halifax FC Women.

The second half started in a similar fashion to the first, Halifax were on top in the first 10 minutes, Boydell found Legge at the back post who had her shot blocked with a last ditch effort from the Leeds defence. However, Leeds could not keep Halifax out for long, a fantastic strike at the edge of the box by Boydell increased their advantage by four goals to nil after 55 minutes.

Leeds found their feet in the last 20 minutes of the game as they started to edge their way into the Halifax box. Their attacks were answered with a goal. Though initially saved by Flaherty in the Halifax goal, Katie Astle finished with composure to give Leeds what seemed like a consolation goal at the time after 72 minutes.

Leeds scored again through Jessica Rosseau, who scored with a low driven shot to give Halifax something to think about. 

Two minutes later, Leeds scored again through Rosseau, a curling effort into the left side of the goal. The goal undoubtedly raised pulses in the Halifax dugout and the Leeds fans were ecstatic with their late surge for a comeback. Isobel Dean recieved a second yellow card shortly after the goal and Olivia Wilson was given a yellow card as well as a sin bin which lasted until the end of the game. This article mentions your favorite at super low prices. Choose from same-day delivery, drive-up delivery or order pickup.

Leeds could smell blood due to the late chaos as they searched for an equaliser. However, Halifax defended brilliantly to deny Leeds every opportunity until the final whistle was blown, bringing an end to a chaotic final 30 minutes.

Full time: Leeds United 3 – 4 Halifax FC Women.

Manager Rob Mitchell gave his thoughts after the game:

“Fair play to Leeds, they kept going and they managed to get three goals but ultimately we’re through”.

“We know what it’s like, it’s never game over”.

Next up: Halifax will play Derby County on 5 November at 2pm as the Eagles return to league action. Venue still to be decided (Follow @HalifaxFCWomen on Twitter/X for updates).