U14 Blacks - Halifax Town

Halifax Town 0-3 UFCA U14s Blacks

**Date:** 16th November 2024 

**Competition:** JPL NPC Yorkshire

**Venue:** Calderdale College

UFCA U14s Blacks delivered a solid performance to secure a 3-0 victory over a determined Halifax Town side in a competitive encounter on Saturday. Although it wasn’t our most polished display of the season, the players showed resilience and a strong mentality to grind out another important win.

From the outset, Halifax Town made it clear they would not go down easily. Their aggressive pressing game created challenges for our usual build-up play, forcing us to adjust early on. Playing a 3-5-2 formation, Halifax frequently overloaded the midfield and made it difficult for us to progress the ball through the middle. In response, our players quickly adapted, though the early stages were a test of our ability to maintain composure under pressure.

Despite Halifax’s work rate and tactical discipline, we took control of the game and were clinical in front of goal. Our first goal came in the 25th minute, following a mistake from the Halifax goalkeeper. Lucas Fox seized the opportunity with a composed touch and a perfectly executed finish from 25 yards out, lifting the ball past the keeper into the net. It was a great moment of alertness and calmness under pressure.

Our second goal came just before half-time, courtesy of Reilly Halliday. The striker was in the right place at the right time, pouncing on a loose ball inside the box and finishing expertly past the Halifax keeper. It was a typical poacher’s goal—quick, instinctive, and crucial in putting us 2-0 up heading into the break.

The third and final goal of the match came in the second half, and it was a moment of individual brilliance from Zac Black. Collecting the ball on the edge of the box, Zac displayed great skill to cut inside and unleash a curling shot that found the top corner of the net, in off both the bar and the post. It was a strike of the highest quality, and it sealed the game in style.

Despite the scoreline, Halifax Town remained competitive throughout the 80 minutes. They were unable to create any clear-cut chances but continued to press and make life difficult for us, particularly in the early exchanges. Their defensive discipline and physicality were commendable, but our clinical finishing ultimately made the difference.

While it wasn’t our best performance in terms of fluidity and rhythm, the team’s work rate and determination ensured we maintained control. The players should be proud of their effort and character to stay focused and build on recent performances. With another three points in the bag, we look ahead to next week’s highly anticipated clash against Soccer Hub, who sit in second place. It promises to be a thrilling encounter as we host them in what is shaping up to be a decisive fixture for top spot.

**Final Score:** Halifax Town 0-3 UFCA U14s Blacks  

**Goals:**  

1-0: Lucas Fox (15’)  

2-0: Reilly Halliday (36’)  

3-0: Zac Black (62’)  

We look forward to continuing this strong run of form as we prepare for the showdown next week!