Off The Post Blog: Shaymen within touching distance of Wembley

By Luke Ramsden

It's nearly happening. FC Halifax Town are one game away from their first visit to Wembley in over 105 years of football in the town.

On the 22nd May, we will be hoping that a Blue Army will descend on the capital for an FA Trophy final that will energise the region and give the loyal fanbase a reward for relentless support through barren years, sometimes decades, without a trophy.

FC Halifax Town will be defending a 4-2 aggregate lead going into the home leg on Saturday afternoon at The Shay. Evostik Northern Premier side Nantwich Town are the only obstacle and after a convincing victory on Saturday, Jim Harvey's men would have to have a momentously off day to sacrifice the two goal advantage now. Being a Halifax fan you naturally always prepare for the worst, but you have to believe the footballing fates are finally smiling on this corner of West Yorkshire on this occasion.

This was no more so in evidence than away on a rainy night at Gateshead in the Quarter Finals. It took a 94th minute equaliser to eventually send the game to penalties and an unlikely Halifax win against Neil Aspins promotion chasing 'Heed. Our name might not be on the Trophy yet but they'll be no better chance to get there than now.

FCHT's National League survival is not yet secure but Saturday afternoon at The Shay will give the fans a little escapism from the league and a chance to dream of a first Wembley final. We should be expecting a big crowd and party atmosphere so now's the time to jump on the Shaymen bandwagon.... Hopefully all the way to Wembley.

15:00 Kick off at The Shay for the Semi-Final 2nd Leg vs Nantwich on Saturday 19th March. All adults pay on the gate.

Luke Ramsden has followed Halifax Town in both its incarnations for the last 15 years. Unsurprising, getting to Wembley will become a new highlight of this time. Follow @FCHalifaxTown for the unofficial fanfeed on FCHT.