Loan signing Raheem Hanley was always confident of a positive result, as FC Halifax Town came from behind to beat Dagenham and Redbridge at the MBi Shay Stadium.
An even game saw the Daggers take the lead towards the end of the first half, with the help of a huge deflection on Charlee Adams’ strike leaving Sam Johnson unable to prevent an opener.
However, Town showed resilience after the restart, and deservedly got themselves in front. Two goals in as many minutes saw Scott McManus’ cross deflected in by Jake Howells, before Mike Fondop-Talom scored his first goal in Shaymen blue to secure the three points.
For Hanley, who was involved in the build up to Town’s equaliser, the result was certainly well deserved for the home side.
“We are buzzing to get two wins on the trot. Especially in this game, coming from behind to win the game is very good.
“For me, I never thought that we were going to lose that game. They did not really have that many opportunities. I had a few shots myself in the first half and I don’t know how I did not score.
“I don’t think they really damaged us. They shifted the ball well from side-to-side in the first half to be honest, but other than that I don’t think they caused us any damage.”
Another three points on the board for Jamie Fullarton’s side means that Town have taken ten points from a possible twelve in their last four matches, moving them ten points clear of the dreaded drop zone.
The impact that Fullarton has had on the squad is clear to see, with performances being both clinical and eye catching. As one of those ‘flair-players’, Hanley has a clear direction of where he wants the rest of the season to go for both the club and on a personal level.
“We have got to stay away from the drop zone, but I am also here to win games. Hopefully we can win as many games as we can.
“If the manager picks me then I am here to do whatever I have got to do. Hopefully I get to start, if not then I will be ready if I am called upon.”
Since joining the club as Fullarton’s third new signing, the Northampton Town loanee has been involved in the build up to goals in both of his games so far for the Shaymen.
From this aspect of his game, it is clear to see why he will be a fresh and positive addition to the squad. As he was substituted deep into the second half against Dagenham, he left the pitch to a standing ovation from his already appreciative fans.
Hanley has always maintained that he is here to create and score chances to showcase his capabilities, but his focus is helping the team push forward for the remainder of the season.
“As long as I can do my bit for the team then that is all that matters. Obviously, I would have liked to score my two chances but if we get the win it doesn’t really matter to me.
“If I am playing higher up the pitch then I definitely want to be creating chances and scoring goals because that is what will help the team.
“I have said before that I am here to do my best, regardless of the position I play in or the number of minutes I get on the pitch. I will always do my best, and for the fans to appreciate my performances is just overwhelming.”
Head over to Shaymen TV to watch the full interview with Hanley, along with more post-match reaction from Fullarton and Fondop-Talom.
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