Martell Taylor-Crossdale’s late goal proved crucial in keeping Haverfordwest County’s Europa Conference League hopes alive, even as they suffered a defeat against B36 Torshavn.
In the second qualifying round second leg held in the Faroe Islands, the former Fulham and Chelsea youngster found the back of the net with just 11 minutes remaining. Despite Hannes Agnarsson giving the hosts the lead and Andrass Johansen doubling the advantage, Taylor-Crossdale’s late reply ensured that Tony Pennock’s men still have a chance in the tie.
Haverfordwest County had reached the second qualifying round by overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit against Shkendija. They achieved a memorable victory in the previous week at Cardiff City Stadium, winning on penalties, and earning the reward of a trip to the Faroe Islands.
The match began nervously for County, with an early scare as Oscar Borg cleared a chance off the line. However, they fell behind in the 11th minute when Torshavn skill-fully opened up their defence. Agnarsson capitalised on a defence-splitting pass from Johansen, slotting the ball past goalkeeper Zac Jones from close range.
As the first half progressed, Haverfordwest weathered the storm and grew into the game. Nevertheless, they faced adversity as captain Jazz Richards did not return for the second half. Torshavn came close to extending their lead when Agnarsson struck the crossbar from Frodi Benjaminsen’s free-kick.
In the 10th minute of the second half, Torshavn did manage to score again through an impressive move that led to Bjarke Nielsen setting up Johansen for a composed finish.
Despite the setback, Haverfordwest County continued to fight back. Kai Whitmore’s powerful shot, unfortunately, went straight to keeper Mattias Lamhauge. But their resilience paid off late in the game when substitute Jack Wilson’s cross fell favourably for striker Taylor-Crossdale, who displayed excellent finishing skills, securing a vital goal and setting the stage for an intense second leg in Cardiff one week later.
