Halifax, England, ENG — Owen Bray's 86th-minute strike proved the difference as Halifax held on to claim a hard-fought three points at The MBi Shay Stadium in the English National League.
Josh Hmami opened the scoring in the 20th minute to give the home side an early advantage, but Boreham Wood responded quickly through Zak Brunt just five minutes later to level at 1-1. Halifax retook the lead when Will Smith converted in the 32nd minute, sending the sides into the break with the hosts ahead.
Boreham Wood again drew level early in the second half, Lewis Richardson equalizing in the 54th minute to make it 2-2 and set up a tense final half-hour. With the match seemingly heading toward a share of the spoils, Bray stepped up in the 86th minute to restore Halifax's advantage and secure the victory.
GOALS:- 20' Josh Hmami - FC Halifax Town- 25' Zak Brunt - Boreham Wood- 32' Will Smith - FC Halifax Town- 54' Lewis Richardson - Boreham Wood- 86' Owen Bray - FC Halifax Town
STANDOUT PLAYERS:- FC Halifax Town: Owen Bray - Match-winning goal in the 86th minute- Boreham Wood: Lewis Richardson - Equalizing goal that kept Boreham Wood level at 2-2
KEY STAT: Five goals were scored across 90 minutes, with Halifax twice surrendering their lead before Bray's late winner settled the contest.