Leaders edge out Halifax Women in Pennine derby
National League Northern Premier leaders Burnley proved too strong for Halifax FC Women as they claimed the spoils from Sunday’s Pennine derby with a 2-0 victory.
Halifax endured a difficult start, with Burnley dominating possession early on and pinning the visitors deep inside their own half for much of the opening period.
Despite Burnley’s control and seven first-half corners, Halifax remained resolute thanks to an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Maddie Crosbie. The shot-stopper produced a series of impressive saves to keep the scores level, including a superb diving stop to tip a dangerous central free-kick away from the top corner.
Burnley’s growing frustration was evident as their fluid attacking play failed to produce a breakthrough before the interval, with Halifax holding firm to go into half-time at 0-0.
The Clarets emerged for the second half with renewed intensity and continuing to apply pressure. That was evident in the 56th minute when Chadwick’s diving header flew over the bar shortly after a penalty appeal, as Anabelle Cass appeared to win the ball in the box while bringing down Burnley’s number 19.
Substitutions followed as Ainsley Strickland made way for Immy Taylor in the later stages, marking a notable debut for the 16-year-old in the 60th minute.
Halifax’s defensive unit, led by Phoebe Hollin, continued to stand strong under sustained pressure.
However, the breakthrough finally came in the 69th minute. A corner delivered to the back post caused problems for Crosbie, who was unable to hold onto the ball under pressure. Burnley reacted quickest, firing home from close range to make it 1-0, an unfortunate moment for a goalkeeper who had otherwise been exceptional.
Burnley doubled their lead in the 78th minute following another turnover in possession.
After Crosbie initially produced a strong save from a shot near the post, the rebound fell to Burnley’s number 10 on the edge of the box, who made no mistake in finding the net to seal the victory.
Despite the scoreline, Halifax can take encouragement from a resilient defensive display for large periods, with Crosbie’s performance a standout despite the late setbacks.