Match Preview: FC Halifax Town (A)

Our first away trip of the season awaits as we head to FC Halifax Town this weekend, aiming to build on our opening day draw to Tamworth.

2025/26 review

The Shaymen are regular challengers in the upper echelons of the Enterprise National League and they were once again in and around the play-offs last term. However, they fell short of their ultimate objective as they finished in eighth and nine points adrift of the final play-off spot, the first time they have failed to extend their campaign in two seasons.

One to watch

A stalwart at the heart of Halifax’s defence who has impressed since arriving last year, Shaun Hobson enjoyed a fruitful first season in West Yorkshire following his departure from Oldham Athletic. The former Southend United fans’ favourite appeared on 32 occasions last term and the 28-year-old will be key in ensuring the Shaymen regain their play-off spot.

On the touchline

Ex-Kings Lynn Town boss Adam Lakeland departed for Morecambe at the end of the season following an impressive stint in charge which led to John McGrath taking the reins.

The five-time Republic of Ireland international had an established playing career for the likes of Doncaster Rovers, Burton Albion and York City before turning to management with Mickleover, whom he managed for eight years.

A move to Buxton ahead of the 2024/25 season was an inspired appointment as he guided the Bucks to consecutive play-off finishes in the National League North.

He also led them to the second round of the Emirates FA Cup last term, on the brink of a first third round appearance since 1952 before they were defeated by Cheltenham Town of Sky Bet League Two.

Previous meetings

It was one win apiece when we locked horns with the 2023 Isuzu FA Trophy winners last season.

They made the trip to Hertfordshire at the end of November and the Wood ran out as dominant 2-1 winners. Lewis Richardson broke the deadlock inside ten minutes before Erico Sousa doubled the advantage on 67 minutes, with Owen Devenport’s strike five minutes into additional time serving as a mere consolation.

The reverse fixture came in March in a thriller at The Shay Stadium. Zak Brunt cancelled out Josh Hmami’s opener before Halifax restored the one-goal lead through Will Smith just after the half-hour mark. Richardson was on the scoresheet to make it level for the second time of the afternoon, but Owen Bray had the final say thanks to his goal four minutes from time.

Match details

The game kicks off at 15:00 and is segregated.

Ticket information

Away fans will be located in the seated Skircoat (West) Stand, turnstiles 4 & 6. These are strictly cash-only turnstiles. Please go to reception, in the East Stand, for any necessary card payments.

All adults: £15.00
12-17 years old: £5.00
Under 12 years old: £1.00

Disabled supporters pay admission prices as per their relevant age group. A carer, if required, is admitted free of charge. Please go to Reception for assistance.

Can’t join us tomorrow afternoon?

Follow all of the action from the Shay Stadium on the club’s official social media channels, with live updates on both X and Instagram, available at @boreham_woodfc. Don’t forget to turn your notifications on!

Written by Jack Patmore.