Guiseley Secure Emirates FA Cup First Round Spot

Comfortable 3-0 Away Victory at Leiston

Guiseley AFC progressed to the first round proper of the Emirates FA Cup with a convincing 3-0 win against Leiston at the Flannery Stadium on Saturday, 17 October 2026. The victory extended manager Ian Richards’ longest run in the competition and was secured through a dominant second-half display.

Match Overview

The match began cautiously, with both teams finding it difficult to create clear goal-scoring opportunities in the early stages. Guiseley gradually grew into the game, with Ollie Brown and Jordan Thewlis causing problems down the right flank. Despite some close attempts, the deadlock was broken in the 32nd minute.

Harrison Hopper delivered a precise free kick that found Elliot Owen at the back post, who powered a header into the net. Five minutes later, Thewlis doubled the lead by capitalising on a loose ball and chipping the Leiston goalkeeper, Callum Robinson. The scoring spree continued with Jack Emmett netting his first goal of the season just before half-time, finishing calmly amid a crowded penalty area.

Second Half Details

• Guiseley started the second half strongly, nearly adding a fourth goal when Brown headed over from a Hopper cross.
• Hopper had a free kick goal disallowed for an infringement, denying him a well-earned strike.
• Leiston struggled to break through Guiseley’s defensive organisation but forced a few saves from goalkeeper Jack Hall, including a notable effort from Harvey Sayer.
• Substitute Amir Berchil, returning from injury, came close to scoring with a low shot that narrowly missed.
• In a rare moment of misfortune, Guiseley’s Will Longbottom inadvertently blocked a teammate’s shot that had beaten the goalkeeper, denying a potential fourth goal.
• Hopper continued to test Robinson with free kicks, one of which was tipped over the bar.

Substitutions and Closing Stages

Manager Ian Richards introduced several substitutes late in the game, including Jack Tinker, Paul Iggulden, and Noah Wadsworth, who made his debut following a recent transfer from Buxton. Guiseley maintained control until the final whistle, with Jordan Thewlis and Will Longbottom both having late chances to extend the lead.

Match Details

• Final score: Leiston 0-3 Guiseley
• Date: Saturday 17 October 2026
• Venue: Flannery Stadium
• Attendance: 545

Guiseley Starting XI

• Jack Hall (GK)
• Lucas Odunston
• Ollie Brown (substituted 70’ Jack Tinker)
• Harrison Hopper
• Elliot Owen
• Lebrun Mbeka (Captain)
• Jack Emmett (substituted 86’ Paul Iggulden)
• Charlie Staniland
• Kallan Murphy (substituted 74’ Will Longbottom)
• Amir Berchil (substituted 81’ Noah Wadsworth)
• Jordan Thewlis (substituted 65’ Frankie Sinfield)

Next Fixture

Guiseley return to league action on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, with a home match against Cleethorpes Town at Nethermoor Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:45pm.