Loss for Macc

Captain Paul Turnbull and Macc’s man-of-thematch Rowe responded to the cries for action but their strikes failed to provide a stern test for Johnson.

Possibly riled up by the crowd, Halls lunged into a tackle right in front of the home dugout and although Halifax’s bench demanded a red card to be brandished, the Macclesfield defender saw yellow, something which enraged John Askey.

Just as the tie looked as though it would end a draw with both sides seemingly content with a point, Halifax found the goal they deserved from their second-half superiority.

Kingsley James picked out Tuton, who had found himself alone ten yards in front of goal, with a perfectly timed through-ball and the striker slotted home a collected finish to give Halifax the lead with thirteen minutes remaining.

The Shaymen nearly doubled their advantage soon after when Kevin Roberts’ well executed volley from an awkward angle was met by Branagan at his near post.

The home fans stood to their feet in anticipation of an equaliser when a hopeful, looped ball fell over Dennis’ shoulder in the box, but the National League joint top scorer struck the difficult chance way over.

Macclesfield’s frustrating afternoon continued as late pressure amounted to nothing, and a defiant Halifax held on to pick up their fifth league win in their last eight outings.

MACCLESFIELD TOWN:

Brangan, Halls, Byrne, Pilkington, Fitzpatrick, Turnbull, Whitaker, Rowe, Holroyd ( Turner 76’), Dennis, Sampson ( Whitehead 59’). Subs not used: Sutherland, Diagne, Cowan