The trip to the North East was like stepping into the Eastern Block for a European away day - gloomy and bitterly cold weather conditions on a wintry December afternoon, enhanced by the open layout of the ground which doubles up as an athletics arena, the tell tale running track framed the hallowed turf.
In truth it bore more significance to both sets off supporters, a win for either side would have propelled them into the play off places. The Shay faithful had travelled well and were in good voice throughout.
The Shaymen got off to a fantastic start; in form Lois Maynard headed the opening goal early doors from a pinpoint Marc Roberts cross, before veteran John Oster levelled things up almost instantly.
Halifax was the better side, playing to their capabilities. A rare start for Jamie Jackson proved a masterstroke by Neil Aspin. Town’s number nine contributed to everything positive that the visitors had to offer with his concise passing, pace, and tricks and flicks.
The midfield combined well and Maynard found space once more, this time from a speculative distance of 40 yards. The midfielder light fly and the ball moved wickedly en route to goal, wrong footing Gateshead goalkeeper Adam Bartlett to make it 1-2 to the away side.
Back came the Tynesiders however, James Bolton bringing Rob Ramshaw to ground in an easy penalty decision for the referee Ryan Johnson.
Up stepped joint club top scorer Danny Wright to slot home from 12 yards and provide Gateshead’s second equaliser of the first half to go in 2-2 at the break.
The home side began to create more opportunities than the visitors in the second half, with the introduction of Michael Rankine, who provided pace and power but no cutting edge to a plethora of chances.
Town threatened on the break and looked dangerous late on.
Jackson, who only needed a goal to cap off a fine performance, was put through by on loan Will Hatfield.
Despite doing everything right in preparation, Jackson put the ball agonisingly wide by millimetres.
The Boxing Day game at the International Stadium finished 2-2 – a good point on their travels for FC Halifax Town, and a fair reflection on the second half. Town could well have nicked it on another day.
Next up for Halifax is a home game against Chester, less than 48 hours removed from their trip to the North East. Kick off is 3pm at the Shay.
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