Halifax Town vs Kidderminster on January 31
The FA Trophy clash between Halifax Town and Kidderminster promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both sides vying for a place in the latter stages of this prestigious competition. The match will take place on January 31, 2026, at The Shay, where Halifax will look to defend their home turf against a strong Kidderminster side. For both teams, this fixture holds more than just a chance for cup glory—it’s an opportunity to cement their status as contenders in the tournament. As the stakes rise, expect a tactical battle that could swing in either direction.
Halifax Town: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Halifax Town enters this FA Trophy encounter in solid form, having won three of their last five matches. Their tactical approach revolves around a structured 4-4-2 formation, which allows them to solidify their defensive shape while pushing forward through wide areas. Their attacking play often stems from quick counter-attacks, utilizing pace on the flanks, with the wingers looking to deliver crosses into the box for their target man up front. This dynamic is reinforced by a disciplined midfield, where they look to control possession and dictate the tempo.
Key stats for Halifax reveal an average of 55% possession in recent matches, with 1.8 goals per game scored and 1.2 goals conceded. Their ability to break swiftly after recovering the ball has been a hallmark of their attacking play, and they will need to capitalize on set-pieces, an area where they've seen success with 8 corners per game and an xG of 1.4 over the last five matches.
In terms of player form, Halifax’s key man is striker Sam Smith, who has scored four goals in the last five games and remains crucial to their offensive plans. However, the team will be without midfielder Luke Summerfield due to injury, which could disrupt their rhythm in midfield and affect their press. Their engine in the middle, Jack Earing, will need to step up in Summerfield's absence to ensure they dominate the center of the park.
Kidderminster: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Kidderminster has also been impressive in recent weeks, picking up 3 wins and 2 losses from their last five outings. The team primarily employs a 4-3-3 formation that focuses on controlling the midfield with a compact three-man unit and exploiting the width with their fast, direct wingers. Kidderminster’s key strength lies in their high pressing game, aiming to win possession high up the field and capitalize on quick transitions into the final third.
Statistically, Kidderminster has averaged 53% possession in their recent matches, but their most dangerous weapon has been their pressing system, which has resulted in 10.5 tackles per match and a high number of turnovers in the attacking third. Their xG of 1.6 per game reflects their direct, aggressive style of play that often looks to unsettle opposition defenses with rapid forward runs and pinpoint deliveries into the box.
At the forefront of their attack is forward Amari Morgan-Smith, who has netted five goals in the last five games, showcasing excellent movement and finishing ability. However, Kidderminster will miss the services of central defender Alex Penny, who is sidelined through suspension. This absence could leave them vulnerable at the back, especially in aerial duels against Halifax’s tall forwards. Midfield stalwart Charlie Ward will be pivotal in keeping their shape intact, as his ball-winning ability will be key in regaining possession and transitioning into attack.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The last few encounters between Halifax Town and Kidderminster have been tightly contested, with both sides winning two games apiece in the last five meetings. However, Halifax has the psychological edge, having won 2 of the last 3 matchups at home. Their 3-1 victory earlier this season in the league will give them confidence going into this FA Trophy clash. Historically, matches between these two have been physical, with numerous yellow cards issued, and this match is expected to be no different.
In terms of playing styles, Halifax tends to have the upper hand in possession-based encounters, while Kidderminster excels in fast-paced, counter-attacking football. The battle will likely hinge on which team can impose its style more effectively—whether Halifax can control the tempo or whether Kidderminster’s pressing will disrupt their build-up play.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the critical battles in this game will be the midfield battle between Halifax’s Jack Earing and Kidderminster’s Charlie Ward. Earing’s creativity and distribution will be essential for Halifax’s build-up play, while Ward’s combative style will try to disrupt their rhythm. Winning this midfield duel could determine the flow of the game, with both teams depending on their midfield general to dictate the pace.
On the flanks, Halifax’s wingers will look to exploit the space left behind by Kidderminster’s high press. Kidderminster’s wide defenders will have their hands full with Halifax’s quick and direct wingers, who are adept at delivering dangerous balls into the box. If Kidderminster can control these wide areas and nullify the supply into Halifax’s forwards, they will significantly reduce their opponent’s attacking threat.
Match Scenario and Prediction
The match is likely to unfold as a tactical battle between Halifax’s possession-based approach and Kidderminster’s high-pressing, counter-attacking style. Halifax will aim to control the ball and create chances through the width of the pitch, while Kidderminster will look to press high and exploit spaces on the counter. The loss of Alex Penny for Kidderminster could open up opportunities for Halifax to attack aerially, particularly from set-pieces.
Given the teams’ current form and tactics, a 2-1 victory for Halifax Town seems the most likely outcome. Halifax will dominate possession and create chances, but Kidderminster’s pressing could cause occasional defensive lapses. The match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams scoring but Halifax ultimately edging it due to their home advantage and stronger overall attacking options.
Final Thoughts
This FA Trophy clash will likely come down to which team can impose its tactical will on the game. Halifax’s control in possession and aerial threat could prove too much for Kidderminster, especially with their defensive vulnerabilities. However, Kidderminster’s high press and quick counter-attacks will ensure they remain dangerous throughout.
Will Halifax’s home advantage and possession game be enough to see them through, or will Kidderminster’s pressing and counter-attacking style secure an upset? The answer will be revealed on January 31st.
