Guiseley Held to Draw by Whitby Town in Ian Richards’ Debut
November 9, 2025Late free-kick denies Guiseley victory at Turnbull Ground
Guiseley were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Whitby Town on Saturday 8 November 2025, after a last-gasp free-kick secured a point for the hosts at the Turnbull Ground. The match marked the first game under new manager Ian Richards.
The visitors took the lead in the 57th minute when Jordan Thewlis converted a penalty awarded following a foul on him by Whitby player-manager Gary Liddle. The penalty was placed into the bottom right corner, beating Whitby goalkeeper Shane Bland.
Guiseley started the match strongly, applying early pressure and creating several chances. Amir Berchil’s early pass narrowly missed Lucas Odunston, while Ollie Brown made key defensive interventions to disrupt Whitby’s attacks. Joe Cracknell, Guiseley’s goalkeeper, also made an important save from James Harrison’s curled shot in the 18th minute.
Whitby responded in the second half, with former Guiseley player Jake Charles testing the visitors’ defence and creating opportunities. Despite sustained pressure from the home side, Guiseley maintained their lead until added time.
However, in the 93rd minute, substitute Aaron Haswell scored a spectacular free-kick following a disputed foul on Jake Lawlor. His shot curled into the top left corner, leaving Cracknell with no chance and securing a late equaliser for Whitby.
Match Summary
- Date: Saturday 8 November 2025
- Venue: Turnbull Ground
- Attendance: 544
- Final Score: Whitby Town 1-1 Guiseley
Guiseley Starting XI
- 1. Joe Cracknell (Goalkeeper)
- 2. Lucas Odunston
- 3. Ollie Brown
- 4. Lebrun Mbeka (Captain)
- 5. George Goodman
- 6. Jake Lawlor
- 7. Harrison Hopper
- 8. Jack Emmett (substituted 68’)
- 9. Jordan Thewlis
- 10. Will Longbottom
- 11. Amir Berchil (substituted 90’)
Substitutes
- 12. Connor Ferguson
- 13. Spencer Booth (Goalkeeper)
- 14. Sam Aston (substituted on 68’)
- 15. Joao Silva (substituted on 90’)
Next Fixture
Guiseley will return to home action on Saturday 15 November 2025, hosting Cleethorpes Town with a 3pm kick-off in the Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division.
