By Adam Ingoe
The opening ten minutes of the game saw both Guiseley and Hebburn break even in
chances, with the Hornets having a considerable number of opportunities on goal.
The most notable moment came from a free kick taken by Joe Walton in the 5th minute, which nearly found captain Amar Purewal, but missed by a matter of inches.
A few minutes later, a Guiseley counter-attack resulted in the first goal of the match, but was subsequently ruled offside, keeping the score at 0-0.
Guiseley had another chance to score in the 15th minute, drawing goalkeeper Dan Cameron out of his box to make a crucial last-minute save. However, the ball slipped through his hands, which led to Guiseley striker Jack Emmett capitalising on the newfound opportunity and having an attempt on goal. His efforts were thwarted by an on-the-line clearance from defender Aaron Thompson, keeping the score level.
Guiseley’s lucky break came in the 19th minute, when midfielder Prince Ekpolo played a clever through ball to former South Shields player John Lufudu, who took advantage of the opportunity presented and converted it into the first goal of the match in favour of the Lions, opening the score at 1-0.
The Hornets in latter stages of the first half stood firm defensively and played impressive counter-attacking football, utilizing long balls on numerous occasions, which led to a multitude of opportunities.
The Hornets’ efforts nearly paid off in the 34th minute, when they were awarded a free kick in a threatening position. The ball ended up narrowly missing the goalpost.
Half-Time: Hebburn Town 0-1 Guiseley
The second half saw both sides more evenly matched, with both teams having attempts on
goal.
To help break the deadlock and increase attacking momentum, the Hornets made changes
in the 55th minute, bringing on attackers Liam Murray and Liam Noble in place of Daniel
Savage and Aaron Thompson.
Guiseley responded in the 68th minute with their own substitution, bringing on Will Longbottom for Lewis Whitham.
A few minutes later, they made another change, bringing on Jamie Spencer for Jack Emmett.
In the dying embers of the second half, Hebburn made a final push, creating a multitude of
chances on goal.
Despite their best efforts, the score remained 1-0, with Guiseley walking away with all three points.
Full-Time: Hebburn Town 0-1 Guiseley
Attendance: 523
Man of the Match: Matty Elsdon
Hebburn Town: Cameron, Posthill, Walton, Thompson, Donaghy, Elsdon, Martin, Spence, Purewal, Gomes, Savage
Substitutes: Murray, Noble, Da Silva
Unused subs: N/A