The Lions are hoping to get the better of the Tigers this weekend in their own den following Emirates FA Cup success last weekend, writes Scott Kelly.
Match sponsored by: Guiseley AFC Supporters’ Club
Past Meetings
These sides were National League North clubs when the Lions last beat Hyde, in 2015. Adam Boyes grabbed a brace in a 2-0 victory. That was the Lions’ only victory in the last six league meetings against this opposition.
The meetings between the sides were drawn 1-1 and 2-2 in 23/24 with Hyde last winning 3-2 at Nethermoor in January 2023, with Callum Chippendale among the Lions scorers. Former Lion Liam Tongue was among the Tigers goalscorers that day.
Last Time Out
Guiseley 3-0 Ashton United
The Lions booked their place in the second qualifying round of the FA Cup with a resounding 3-0 victory against Ashton United on Saturday and their unbeaten start to the season in the process.
Will Longbottom got the Lions off to the perfect start as he bundled home from close range after 10 minutes following good work from John Lufudu.
Good work in midfield led to the ball falling to Lufudu who fired home from just outside the area eight minutes into the second half.
The scoring was completed by Gabriel Johnson, who stepped up to take a penalty which he won himself. The penalty was saved well by Conor O”Keefe but Johnson thumped home the rebound with 68 minutes played.
That is how it remained, and the Lions were rewarded with a second round qualifying match against 1874 Northwich, a club only established in 2012 and a club the Lions have never played
Post Match Reaction From The Gaffer
“That second goal was something to behold. The passing, the movement. (Adriano) Moke getting on it again and dictating play. Will and Gabs worked well too, and it found its way to John (Lufudu) and what a lovely finish”.
Boss Mark Bower alluded to how a good start to the second half was so important, with the score still being in the balance at 1-0. He thought John Lufudu’s finish on 53 minutes was a ‘real killer’ and really sealed it for the Lions.
“The third one put a nice gloss on it”.
Bower was pleased that the result was wrapped up with a third goal, and was pleased his side saw out the final 20 minutes with little hassle.
“The goal for Gabs was great. His all-round play has been good since he has come in. He is finding his feet after having next to no pre-season. I am sure he will only get better”.
Bower is delighted with Gabriel Johnson’s impact since returning to the fold after injury and was pleased that it was he who rounded off the scoring on Saturday.
The Lions’ Team News
Bower doesn’t appear to have any fresh injury concerns heading into a return to league action.
Jordan Thewlis is expected to recover from illness for Saturday’s game. Jake Lawlor did not come off the bench on Saturday but is available for Hyde’s visit.
Jake Wright has had his operation for his ACL injury and Lewis Whitham is closer than ever to a return to action.
Boss Mark Bower spoke of Whitham’s road to recovery after Saturday’s victory.
“Lewis’ knee is in a good place. He has a programme to do for probably a month to six weeks and then he will be there or thereabouts”.
A look at Hyde United
Manager: Nick Spooner
Stadium: Ewen Fields
Nickname: The Tigers
23/24 League Position: 6th
The Tigers needed two bites of the cherry to beat FC United of Manchester in the FA Cup. A 3-3 draw against their close rivals at Broadhurst Park was followed by a 1-0 victory at Ewen Fields on Tuesday night, with Jake Thompson bagging the winner. Thompson only joined the club just days before the match. It means the Tigers are rewarded with a trip to Southport in the 2nd qualifying round.
Familiar names in the squad include Harry Bunn, now 31 and a former Manchester City trainee. He was released in 2014 and counts Huddersfield Town and Bury among his former clubs.
Jack Redshaw is another familiar name with much EFL experience. Redshaw is now 33 and is club captain and lists Morecambe and Salford City among his former clubs.
They have enjoyed their start to the 24/25 season too, sitting joint top with 14 points after an unbeaten start. Four wins and two draws include impressive 4-1 victories against Stockton and away to Matlock Town. They also held much fancied Macclesfield to a 1-1 draw away from home.
Matchday Information
Tickets will be available to purchase from our turnstiles on Saturday priced at:
- Adults: £13
- Concessions (Over 66s/Students/Registered Disabled): £9
- 11-18 Year-Olds: £5
- Accompanied Under-11s: £1
Payment can be made via cash at all our turnstiles and card at turnstiles 1 & 2.
‘The Lions’ matchday programme will be on sale for £3 from sellers near each turnstile and our Club Shop, take a look at what is inside here.
It is cash payments only inside the ground for programmes and 50/50 cash draw tickets. Food and drink from The Lions’ Diner can be paid for by cash or card and the clubhouse accepts and prefers payment by card.
The Lions’ Diner will be open on Saturday selling pies, chips, sausage rolls snacks and hot and cold drinks. The hatch in the clubhouse will be closed until the end of September, for Saturday home games only, due to cricket matches taking place at the same time.