ONCE IN A LIFETIME CHANCE FOR TOWN
Town boss Chris Millington has called on his players to seize their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reach a Wembley final.
The Shaymen take on Altrincham on Saturday in the semi-final of the FA Trophy, with a coveted place at Wembley on Sunday, May 21 at stake.
Halifax won the competition in 2016, beating Grimsby Town 1-0 in the final, and can salvage what has otherwise been a disappointing campaign by securing a return to the national stadium.
When asked what his message to his players will be ahead of the match, Millington said: "It's a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity for most players to get the opportunity to play at Wembley, and it's making sure we understand the game-plan, we go into it with real thorough preparation but that they leave no stone unturned in terms of their effort and application to try and win the game.
"They're only going to get one opportunity and if they come off with any regrets, it'd be a crying shame."
Millington says he would be delighted for his players to reach the final after what has been a difficult season.
"It's exciting, great opportunity," he said. "It's a huge thrill for everybody and it makes all the challenge and the adversity we've faced this year worthwhile.
"Just making it to the Trophy semi-final is some reward for all the adversity we've had to face, but a trip to Wembley would be fantastic for the lads, as a reward for a season that's been very difficult.
"A lot of them have really grown up over the last ten months and I think the experiences they've had will stand them in good stead going on into their careers.
"But a trip to Wembley would be a fitting reward for all the adversity they've had to deal with."
Millington believes Altrincham, who are three places and six points above Town in the National League table, go into the game as favourites.
"We're in the position of going in as underdogs, Altrincham are flying high in the league, they've put a string of positive results and performances together in recent weeks," the Halifax boss said.
"They're at home, so everyone will be expecting them to win, so that's good for us because the weight of expectation is all on them.
Continued