Guiseley Secure First Win of Season at Whitby

Martin’s brace leads Guiseley to 2-0 victory at Turnbull Ground

Guiseley claimed their first victory of the season with a 2-0 win away at Whitby Town on Tuesday evening. After a goalless first half, Aaron Martin scored twice in the early stages of the second half to secure the points for Ian Richards’ side.

Match Summary

The match at Whitby’s Turnbull Ground started cautiously, with few clear chances in the opening 45 minutes. Whitby, who had begun the campaign with a 2-1 away win at Leek, showed early intent. Stan Hewitt was found unmarked at the back post but was unable to convert, shooting straight at Guiseley goalkeeper Jack Hall.

Guiseley’s Adam Lund caused problems with his long throws, leading to two opportunities within three minutes. Aaron Martin headed over from one, while Lebrun Mbeka’s header was blocked, and the rebound was shot wide.

As the first half progressed, Guiseley increased their pressure. Amir Berchil’s cross found Martin at the back post, but Whitby keeper Jack Norton made a good save to tip the ball wide. Whitby’s Joey Phuthi also tested Hall with a deflected shot, which was comfortably gathered.

Guiseley’s midfield worked the ball upfield, with Charlie Staniland and Lucas Odunston combining to set up Jay Rollins, whose cross led to a shot from Martin that went over the bar. Just before half-time, Berchil was fouled on the left flank, but the resulting free kick was caught by Norton.

Second Half Action

Guiseley started the second half strongly. Three minutes in, Rollins’ shot was deflected to Norton, who made a save. At 49 minutes, Martin rounded the keeper but shot into the side netting.

Martin opened the scoring in the 52nd minute, powering home a cross from Cam Wilson. Six minutes later, he doubled the lead after Berchil’s cross was initially blocked, allowing Martin to tap the ball into an open net.

Whitby responded with attempts to reduce the deficit. Sam Kay’s 25-yard shot struck the crossbar, and he later missed from a tight angle. Guiseley nearly extended their lead through substitute Jordan Thewlis and Cam Wilson, but the home defence cleared well. Elliot Owen also headed over from a cross.

In the closing stages, Martin appeared to complete a hat-trick, but the goal was disallowed for offside.

Team Line-Ups

• Guiseley: Jack Hall; Lucas Odunston; Jack Tinker; Adam Lund; Elliot Owen; Lebrun Mbeka (captain); Jay Rollins (65’ Harrison Hopper); Charlie Staniland; Aaron Martin; Cam Wilson (78’ Kyle White); Amir Berchil (65’ Jordan Thewlis)
• Substitutes: Paul Iggulden, Kyle White, Harrison Hopper, Jordan Thewlis, Derren Boyle

Next Fixture

Guiseley will look to build on this result when they travel to Workington’s Derwent Park on Saturday, 15 August, in the Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division.