Guiseley Lose 2-1 to Warrington Town on Season Opener

Early Lead Not Enough as Warrington Fight Back

Guiseley AFC began their 2026/27 season with a 2-1 home defeat against Warrington Town at Nethermoor on Saturday, 8 August. Despite taking an early lead, the Lions were unable to hold on as Warrington mounted a comeback to secure the victory.

Match Summary

The Lions started brightly, taking the lead in the fourth minute. Ollie Brown’s attempted bicycle kick was miscued but fell to Adam Lund, who struck a low drive from 25 yards into the left-hand corner of the net.

Warrington Town responded with attacking threats, particularly down their right wing, with Jack Goodman and Reece Daly causing problems for the Guiseley defence. Guiseley maintained pressure, with Cam Wilson making a notable run forward on 13 minutes, although his through ball just missed reaching Amir Berchil.

Lucas Odunston and Berchil combined well on the right flank, creating several opportunities. Guiseley’s Harrison Hopper was booked for a trip that stopped a Warrington counterattack.

As the first half progressed, Warrington grew into the game. Just before half-time, Warrington equalised when Ewan Bange headed home from a corner at the near post, leaving Guiseley disappointed to concede so late in the half.

Second Half Developments

Warrington started the second half strongly and took the lead early on through a goal by Alex McNally. The goal originated from a free kick delivered by Daly, which McNally met with a looping header at the far post.

Guiseley struggled to clear their lines during a period of pressure, although goalkeeper Lebrun Mbeka made a crucial block to deny Daly’s volley. Guiseley’s best chance came from an overhead kick by Mbeka following a knockdown from Aaron Martin, but the shot did not find the net.

Berchil was later booked for a foul that stopped a Warrington attack. Manager Ian Richards made several substitutions in the final 30 minutes, bringing on Jordan Thewlis, Jay Rollins, Derren Boyle, and new signing Jack Tinker in an attempt to find an equaliser.

Despite these changes, Warrington’s defence remained resolute, comfortably clearing crosses and blocking shots to maintain their lead until the final whistle.

Post-Match Comments and Next Fixture

Guiseley manager Ian Richards expressed disappointment with the result, particularly the two goals conceded from set pieces and the team’s approach in the second half. However, he emphasised the need to keep perspective with a long season ahead.

The Lions will next face Whitby Town away on Tuesday, 11 August, in the Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division.

Match Details

• Date: Saturday, 8 August 2026
• Venue: Nethermoor
• Attendance: 545
• Final Score: Guiseley 1-2 Warrington Town

Guiseley Starting Line-up

• 1. Jack Hall
• 2. Lucas Odunston
• 3. Ollie Brown (sub 82′ Jack Tinker)
• 4. Adam Lund
• 5. Elliot Owen (sub 78′ Derren Boyle)
• 6. Lebrun Mbeka (Captain)
• 7. Harrison Hopper (sub 61′ Jordan Thewlis)
• 8. Charlie Staniland
• 9. Aaron Martin
• 10. Cam Wilson (sub 61′ Jay Rollins)
• 11. Amir Berchil

Substitutes

• 12. Paul Iggulden
• 14. Jack Tinker
• 15. Jay Rollins
• 16. Jordan Thewlis
• 17. Derren Boyle