While Halifax Town find themselves again pushing for promotion this season, their long-term future looks bright with manager Peter Wild at the helm.
Having already had a couple of years with the Shaymen, Wild has put in the foundations needed to bring success to the club, as they continue to challenge for promotion to League Two.
Foundations in Place at Shay Stadium
Former Oldham Athletic boss Wild took over the reins at Halifax back in July 2019 and has impressed with the West Yorkshire outfit. There were rumours at one stage later in 2019 that Grimsby Town were interested in his services, but Wild claimed an approach was never made by the Mariners.
Since taking over, Wild has been able to turn Halifax into a side that is now capable of challenging for playoff football. Back in March, the team went on a four-game winning streak, as they beat the likes of Wealdstone and Notts County on the road, before home victories against Solihull Moors and Aldershot Town. Much like last season when they reached the playoffs, Halifax are showing they are truly a competitive outfit in the National League.
Solid Defence the Key
The success of Halifax this season has been based on a strong defence that has helped them grind out wins. It was a disappointing start to the season for Wild’s men, only winning one of their first 10 league games. But the manager turned things around and saw his side win four of the following five games. Resolving the issues at the back was key, and while Halifax were still conceding goals, they managed to limit chances for their opposition.
Nathan Clarke is the most experienced head at the back, and the 37-year-old has made over 20 appearances for the club this term. The likes of Jack Senior, Neill Byrne, Tom Bradbury and Niall Maher have also seen plenty of game time, and have helped Halifax’s push for the playoffs.
Keeping Top Talent This Summer
Whether the Shaymen make it into the playoffs this season or not, the foundations are there to build a strong team at Halifax. Keeping hold of the club’s top assets will be a challenge for Wild this summer, but the potential to succeed might be enough to keep players at Halifax.
Veteran Martin Woods has been a key player for the club. Woods began his career at Leeds United, who are outsiders at 150/1 to win the title in the Premier League betting for next season. The former Whites midfielder has been a rock in the middle of the park, and Halifax will be eager to see him stay.
Jamie Allen has also impressed, with the former Dover Athletic forward contributing a handful of goals to the Halifax cause. Striker Jake Hyde has been the club’s leading goalscorer this term, and there might well be interest in the former York City attacker this summer. Halifax have not been short on goals this season, and keeping Allen and Hyde could be key to a successful campaign next term.Wild is an ambitious manager, who will have big aspirations for Halifax going forward. Certainly, the signs look promising of brighter times ahead for the club, as they bid to put the tough days behind them and make a return to the Football League. Sent from my iPhone