FC Halifax Town begun their pre-season experience at home against Championship side Sheffield United. John McGrath made his first appearance in the Shay dugout with his side having nine trialists including all three new summer signings.
The home side started strongest with two trialists having shots on target from the edge of the box, although comfortable for goalkeeper Michael Cooper.
Chris Wilderβs side picked up the pace with starman Tom Cannon finding a gap on the right-hand flank but a poor attempt in front of goal. Eventually the Irishman found the back of the net on the 20th minute, a great through ball from Oliver Arblaster gave the away side the lead.
The best chance in the first half for the Shaymen came at the half hour mark with new signing Connor Douglas going one on one with Cooper, but a shot couldnβt be taken by the winger.
Second half saw a fresh full squad from both sides with the inclusion of newest signing Tayt Trusty. Sheffield introduced ex-premier league players Gustavo Hamer and Patrick Bamford.
Town begun their search for an equaliser with Trialist H going through on goal but only adding to the tally of shots on target, on the 50-minute mark.
The home crowd eventually got what they were after. Great build up play from Hmami and Kawa gave Trialist G the chance Halifax needed in front of goal, bringing the game back to a level score.
The home side continued to pile on the pressure, Trialist I had his shot saved by Adam Davies and was pushed out for a corner.
Despite this, the Blades were more successive in the final third. Link up play from Riedwald and Bamford sent former Coventry City man Hamer with open space giving Tyreece Campbell an open net to score to give his side the lead for the second time.
A brilliant team goal saw Gustavo Hamer cut inside on the left-hand side beating AJ Warburton and flying the ball into the top corner, giving the Blades a deserved advantage on the scoreboard.
The ex-Halifax town manager will be impressed with his sideβs performance including the great number of 1113 fans travelling up from South Yorkshire, but still lots of improvement for a strong side looking to compete for a promotion spot next year.
FC Halifax Town will return to the field at the Heffernan Utilities Stadium next Tuesday against Brighouse Town in another Yorkshire clash at 7:30pm.
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