Guiseley Narrowly Defeated by Cleethorpes Town

Late Goal Secures Victory for Cleethorpes in Challenging Conditions

Guiseley AFC suffered a 2-1 defeat at Cleethorpes Town on Tuesday 24 March 2026, despite a late rally that set up a tense finale. The match, played amid heavy rain and strong winds at The Linden Club, saw Connor O’Grady and Max Wright score for the hosts, while Calum Hudson netted a late header for Guiseley.

Match Summary

The Lions started strongly and dominated much of the early play, creating several chances but failing to convert. Notable early efforts included a powerful shot from Ollie Brown that was blocked in the sixth minute and two attempts from Amir Berchil, who was active throughout the first half. Mo Fadera also tested the Cleethorpes defence with a few promising attacks.

Despite Guiseley’s pressure, it was Cleethorpes who opened the scoring against the run of play. Connor O’Grady headed home from a corner in the 35th minute, giving the Owls the lead. Guiseley continued to press after the break, but it was Max Wright who doubled the advantage for Cleethorpes with a fierce strike in the 58th minute.

Guiseley responded with determination, and Calum Hudson’s 84th-minute header from a Harrison Hopper corner brought the score to 2-1, setting up a dramatic finish. The Lions pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages but were unable to break down a resolute Cleethorpes defence. The match concluded after eight minutes of added time without further goals.

Key Moments

• 6th minute: Ollie Brown’s shot blocked early on.
• 11th minute: Amir Berchil’s run and Mo Fadera’s shot saved.
• 22nd minute: Fadera’s shot narrowly misses the target.
• 31st minute: Jake Lawlor’s volley saved by Cleethorpes goalkeeper Ollie Battersby.
• 35th minute: Connor O’Grady scores with a header from a corner.
• 58th minute: Max Wright scores with a powerful strike.
• 84th minute: Calum Hudson scores a header from a corner.
• Late stages: Guiseley pressure but no equaliser.

Team Lineups

Guiseley AFC Starting XI:

• Joe Cracknell (Goalkeeper)
• Lucas Odunston (replaced by Calum Hudson, 77′)
• Kyle White (replaced by Joao Silva, 68′)
• George Goodman
• Elliot Owen
• Jake Lawlor (Captain)
• Harrison Hopper
• Ollie Brown
• Jordan Thewlis (replaced by Zac Rushworth, 86′)
• Mo Fadera (replaced by Jack Emmett, 62′)
• Amir Berchil

Substitutes: Calum Hudson, Joao Silva, Jack Emmett, Derren Boyle, Zac Rushworth

League Standing and Next Fixture

Following this defeat, Guiseley remain in 12th place in the Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division. The Lions will look to return to winning ways in their next league match, which is scheduled for Saturday 28 March 2026. They will face Rushall Olympic away, with kick-off at 3pm.