Guiseley Narrowly Defeated by Hebburn Town

Floodlight Delay and Late Goal Decide Northern Premier League Match

Guiseley AFC’s first team suffered a 1-0 defeat away to Hebburn Town on Saturday, 20 December 2025, in a match that was delayed by nearly an hour due to floodlight issues. The result sees Hebburn Town extend their winning streak to nine games, moving them within a point of league leaders Hednesford Town, while Guiseley remain three points clear of the relegation zone.

Match Summary

The game began with an early chance for the hosts as Ethan Wood’s header struck the post within the opening minute. Guiseley’s goalkeeper Joe Cracknell was unable to prevent Hebburn’s Michael Turner from scoring a header just before half-time, which proved to be the decisive goal.

Guiseley created several opportunities in the first half. Debutant Elliot Owen was involved in a promising move, feeding Jordan Thewlis whose shot was blocked. Lebrun Mbeka also had a headed chance that went over the bar, while Harrison Hopper’s crosses caused problems for the Hebburn defence. Despite these efforts, the Lions were unable to find the net.

Hebburn’s Kian Foreman was a constant threat, delivering dangerous crosses that narrowly missed being converted. Just before half-time, Turner capitalised on a cross at the back post to give Hebburn the lead.

Second Half and Key Moments

• Both teams had limited clear-cut chances after the break, with goalkeepers largely untested until injury time.
• Hebburn’s Liam Murray had a chance to double the lead but shot wide from the edge of the box.
• Guiseley’s Ollie Brown attempted a long-range effort which went over the bar.
• In the final moments, Guiseley appealed for a penalty when Amir Berchil appeared to be fouled in the box, but the referee did not award it.
• Jordan Thewlis forced a save from Hebburn’s goalkeeper Dan Cameron in stoppage time, but Guiseley could not find an equaliser.

Team and Injuries

Guiseley’s manager Ian Richards expressed concern over injuries to Will Longbottom, Jack Emmett, and John Lufudu during the match. However, Jake Lawlor returned to the squad after recovering from injury.

The Guiseley starting lineup was as follows:

• Joe Cracknell (GK)
• Ollie Brown
• Connor Ferguson
• Lebrun Mbeka (Captain)
• Elliot Owen
• Jake Lawlor
• Harrison Hopper
• Jack Emmett (substituted 41’)
• Jordan Thewlis
• Will Longbottom (substituted 31’)
• Amir Berchil

Substitutes included John Lufudu, Bobby Moore, and Joao Silva.

Next Fixture

Guiseley will return to home action on Boxing Day, 26 December 2025, when they host Gainsborough Trinity at Nethermoor Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 3pm.