Guiseley Secure Narrow FA Cup Victory Over Bradford (Park Avenue)

Local derby sees Guiseley progress to fourth qualifying round

Guiseley AFC extended their unbeaten streak against Bradford (Park Avenue) to over seven years with a 1-0 victory in the Emirates FA Cup first qualifying round at Nethermoor on Saturday, 3 October 2026. The match was marked by a minute’s silence in memory of former Guiseley player Courtney Meppen Walter.

Match Summary

The Lions made a change to their defence with Lebrun Mbeka returning to the starting lineup, while Paul Iggulden was named on the bench. The early stages of the game were characterised by high intensity but lacked fluidity, with neither side able to establish consistent possession.

Guiseley’s first notable chance came in the fifth minute when Kallan Murphy reached the byline, but his low cross was blocked. Bradford (Park Avenue) responded with a fast break from a corner, but Jay Rollins’ shot went over the bar. Guiseley goalkeeper Jack Hall was tested when his clearance rebounded off an opponent but managed to recover.

Charlie Staniland attempted a long-range shot that was blocked, and the game saw frequent fouls disrupting play. Murphy continued to create opportunities but was often crowded out by the opposition defence.

Decisive Goal and Second Half

The only goal of the match came in the 38th minute. Amir Berchil delivered a low cross towards the near post, where Murphy obstructed Bradford’s goalkeeper Declan Lambton’s view. This allowed Elliot Owen to score from close range.

Despite dominating possession for much of the second half, Guiseley were unable to extend their lead. Bradford had a rare chance when Owen made a crucial tackle on Robbie Fox. Berchil also forced a save from Lambton with a shot from a narrow angle.

With 20 minutes remaining, Guiseley missed a significant opportunity to secure the win when a cross intended for Murphy was narrowly off target. Bradford then increased their attacking pressure, creating chances on the counterattack, but Guiseley’s defence held firm.

The match’s defining moment came late when Bradford’s Bailey Thompson broke through on goal, only for Jack Hall to make a remarkable save to preserve the lead.

Team Lineup and Attendance

• Guiseley: Jack Hall; Lucas Odunston; Ollie Brown; Harrison Hopper; Elliot Owen; Lebrun Mbeka; Jay Rollins (substituted by Jack Emmett 77′); Charlie Staniland; Kallan Murphy; Cam Wilson (substituted by Paul Iggulden 85′); Amir Berchil (substituted by Jack Tinker 90′)
• Substitutes: Paul Iggulden, Michael Roxburgh (GK), Jack Tinker, Jack Emmett, Derren Boyle, Frankie Sinfield, Will Longbottom
• Attendance: 1,574

Next Fixture

Guiseley will next face Ilkeston Town in the Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 7:45 pm.