FC Halifax Town manager John McGrath has hinted at changes for the upcoming Hartlepool United test after a heavy defeat. The Shaymen were beaten 4-1 by Altrincham on Friday night, a result that leaves them with three losses from their opening four National League games. McGrath, who took charge in the summer, told the Hartlepool Mail that several players impressed him in the second half of that loss and have earned consideration for a starting role this week.
The 4-1 defeat to Altrincham marked a disappointing step back after a promising 4-1 win over Tamworth. That opening day victory saw goals from Zak Gilsenan, who scored twice, Conor Carty, and Ben Tollit. However, subsequent losses to Forest Green Rovers and Boreham Wood preceded the Altrincham setback. In that match, Jimmy Knowles and Tom Crawford scored for the hosts before a second-half own goal from Matty Kosylo compounded Halifax's troubles. McGrath introduced Owen Bray and David Kawa at the break in a bid to change the game's momentum.
What did the manager say about squad selection?
John McGrath was clear that he is prepared to use his entire squad to find a winning formula. "There's players who played second-half (at Altrincham) who certainly put themselves in the shop window to start against Hartlepool," he said. The manager added, "I want to win games of football and I've got, I keep harping on about this, 22, 23 man squad and there's no point having them if I don't use them." He described the improved second-half display as "exactly the reaction I wanted." McGrath also reflected on the earlier loss to Forest Green, noting that while individual errors were costly, the team's effort over the 90 minutes was positive and performances had been improving game by game.
How does this start compare to last season?
This form is a contrast to their solid finish in the 2025 National League campaign. Halifax ended that season in 8th place, accumulating 70 points from 46 games with a record of 20 wins, 10 draws, and 16 losses. Their goal difference over that full season was a positive three, having scored 69 and conceded 66. That final standing left them 38 points behind champions York City. Fans can review the full historical standings and current stats on our site. The recent form line of WLDDW from the tail end of last season shows the potential within the squad that McGrath is now tasked with unlocking consistently.
What is the immediate challenge for Halifax?
The immediate focus is on halting this early-season slide when they face Hartlepool United. Getting a result is important for building momentum before a busy period of fixtures, which you can track on our fixtures page. McGrath's willingness to rotate suggests several players who came off the bench at Altrincham could be in line for a recall. The manager's comments indicate that every place in the starting eleven is under review as he searches for the right combination to secure a much-needed victory. The team's overall squad depth, which he emphasized, will be tested in the coming weeks.
Who could benefit from the manager's changes?
Midfielders Owen Bray and David Kawa, who were introduced at half-time in the last match, are obvious candidates for increased involvement. Their performances in that spell evidently caught the manager's eye. Other squad members who have been waiting for an opportunity will also be hoping for a chance to impress from the start against Hartlepool. McGrath's philosophy is clear: he will pick the players he believes give Halifax the best chance to win on any given matchday, regardless of previous selections. The full roster available to him is listed on our squad page. The next match is a critical opportunity to turn their early season form around.
