The Fans' Verdict: Maidenhead's young players shine in draw with Shaymen

Each week, we will get a Maidenhead United supporter to reflect on the state of play with the Magpies. This week, Murdo Macleod reflects on the Magpies' draw with FC Halifax Town.

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After the poor showing at Southend on the Bank Holiday Monday, some home comfort was in need, especially after the disappointment of losing our unbeaten home record to a limited York City side the previous Saturday.

Even though Halifax made the play offs last season, despite us doing the double over them, they have had an inauspicious start, so I was quietly confident of a positive result.

The first half started slowly, with both sides lacking sparkle in their play. Emile Acquah looked less isolated up front than at Southend, with Koby Arthur primarily providing support. He’s been a livewire when playing in the hole behind the forward, giving us something a bit different and looking capable of unpicking opposition defences.

That said, it was a tried and trusted set piece finish from Cole Kpekwa which opened the scoring. Solid thus far at centre back, it was a surprise to see him at left back, where he provided a decent attacking dimension. Another example of the team still evolving, especially with his place taken by debutant Temi Eweka.

As a club, our resources mean that we must consider lower league talent, so it’s exciting to see that young hungry players exist. I would rather see that instead of journeymen after a final payday – if such a thing is possible at York Road.

After conceding a soft looking equaliser, the Bell End awoke from its slumber and really got behind the team, who reacted by throwing a McCoulsky and Clifton shaped kitchen sink at Halifax. There was even time for a promising cameo from new signing Ashley Nathaniel-George on the left wing.

I have still no idea how we failed to score in a pulsating but ultimately frustrating final 20 minutes. Two points dropped was the overwhelming feeling at the final whistle.

So on to Wrexham away. Given our zero points and goals on the road, on paper Hollywood FC should win without breaking sweat in front of ten thousand passionate fans, right? Thankfully, we’ve been regular coupon busters. Long may that continue. See you there.