It was defeat last time out for Ian Richards’ Lions, the first of his reign. Going into the Christmas and New Year period, the Lions head North to take on in-form Hebburn Town, writes Scott Kelly.

On Saturday’s defeat:

“Going forward we didn’t have enough intent. The effort was there. The second half was much better (than the first). But unfortunately, the quality wasn’t quite there. That (the own goal in the second half) has killed the game”

On Hebburn Town:

“I know how they set up. We have to focus as a group and focus on ourselves, and make sure we are better”

The first defeat of the Ian Richards reign came on Saturday, with a 2-0 defeat at Prescot Cables. Richards conceded that the hosts probably edged the game but has confidence the squad can do better heading into the game this weekend.

Team News

The gaffer confirmed that Jake Lawlor has been training alone and could be back in contention this weekend.

Jack Emmett should be back in contention after a new addition to his family last week.

Sam Bentley has had a small injury setback, with this weekend’s game likely to still come too soon for him.

The Opposition

Hebburn have largely gone under the radar for much of this season, but a 2-1 victory against local rivals Morpeth last weekend has put the Hornets two points off Hednesford and top spot. Six wins from six in November resulted in boss Daniel Moore picking up the Northern Premier League manager of the month award. That award is seen as a curse by many, but Hebburn have continued that form going into December, with two wins from two so far in December, meaning they have won eight consecutive games going into this weekend’s clash with the Lions.

They are easily the highest league goalscorers with 45 goals so far from 21 matches. 14 of those have come from veteran striker Gary Martin, with others coming from players all over the pitch. Olly Martin and Ethan Wood each have five goals this campaign, with Hartlepool loanee Campbell Darcy contributing with three.

Previous Meetings

Last season was the sides first ever meetings, with Guiseley doing the double with 2-0 and 1-0 victories, with the latter coming on Tyneside.

Earlier this season, the Lions won rather convincingly at Nethermoor back in August. A Jordan Thewlis hat-trick and a Taylor Bowen penalty secured a 4-0 victory.

Listen Live

If you cannot make it the game, live audio commentary can be found via the Mixlr app or via guiseleyradio.mixlr.com from 2:50pm on Saturday.

Tickets & Travel

Tickets can be purchased on the day at the turnstiles with cash or card payment accepted or online in advance.

Tickets are priced at:

• £10 Adults
• £8 concessions
• £2 U16s

You can pick up a matchday programme priced at £3 each.

Coach travel is available with Guiseley AFC Supporters’ Club, just call Paul on 07518 445861 to secure a seat.

The coach leaves Nethermoor at 10:30am priced at £25 for members and £30 for non-members