FC Halifax Town started their pre-season campaign with a hard-fought 3-2 win over Gainsborough Trinity on Tuesday night. Zak Gilsenan opened the scoring in the 26th minute, while new goalkeeper True Grant made his debut for the Shaymen. The team, currently sitting 8th in the National League with 70 points (20W-10D-16L), will be looking to build on this performance as they prepare for the upcoming season.
How did the match unfold?
Gilsenan gave Halifax the lead in the 26th minute, and the Shaymen doubled their advantage in the 74th minute through a trialist. Gainsborough pulled one back four minutes later, but another trialist restored Halifax’s two-goal cushion in the 81st minute. The hosts scored a late penalty to make it 3-2, but Halifax held on for the win.
What does this mean for FC Halifax Town?
This victory comes after a mixed pre-season so far, with losses to Sheffield United (3-1), Bradford City (6-1), and Avro (4-3), and a win against Brighouse Town (2-0). The Shaymen will be hoping to carry this momentum into their next friendly against Spennymoor on Saturday.
What’s next for the Shaymen?
FC Halifax Town will face Spennymoor in their next pre-season friendly on Saturday. The team will be looking to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the new National League season, where they finished last season with 69 goals scored and 66 conceded, ending 38 points behind leaders York. Their recent form shows 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses in their last five matches, including a 1-0 victory over Woking on April 25, 2026.
