Despite a strong effort and moments of promising play, Guiseley Lionesses Development were unable to convert their chances, falling to a 2-0 loss. Regardless, Guiseley Lionesses Development was well-organised, strong and resilient, writes Olivia Bastian.

Guiseley Lionesses Development started the match brightly, showing confidence and intent in the opening stages.

Just ten minutes in Emily Gascoyne played a sweeping diagonal pass to Gabby Clay, whose relentless pressure forced the Kellingley defence back and earned a corner.

Two minutes later, Miyuki Sato played in Maddie Padgett with a clever through ball, leading to another Guiseley corner awarded.

The Lionesses maintained their momentum, when in the 19th minute Emily Gascoyne powered on with a well-struck effort which soon came to an end as it was saved by the Kellingley goalkeeper. However, they didn’t stop there, Emily Gascoyne showed determination by driving with the ball nearly 70 yards up the pitch to win another corner for her side.

Gabby Clay’s battling on the wing helped keep pressure on the opponents before the home side came close but around the half-hour mark, a goalmouth scramble occurred. Maddie Padgett showed great awareness as she headed the ball to Miyuki Sato, keeping the attack alive.

Two minutes later, Sarah Woods played a precise pass down the wing to Gabriella Preston who continued to trouble the Kellingley defence. In the 44th minute, Maddie Padgett tried her luck with a powerful strike, however it sailed over the bar.

With Abby Clay defending brilliantly, by breaking up the attack and bringing the ball forward into the field, winning a free kick. Last action of the first half was when Kellingley made a long ranged effort which Evie Smart watched go wide. With a final act of effort from Gabriella Preston as she brought the ball down but it was unfortunately saved by the Kellingley goalkeeper.

Second Half Changes

• Off: Maddie Padgett
• On: Isla McKain

Second Half

Isla McKain made an immediate impact, driving the ball down the wing and stretching the Kellingley defence. Guiseley were awarded a free kick in a promising position that Miyuki Sato struck well, but her effort was safely guarded by the Kellingley goalkeeper. Guiseley then made another change with Chanel Stow replaced by Kayleigh Wilkinson to add new legs in midfield. Kellingley then looked to build the momentum, but Evie Smart remained composed between the posts, comfortably saving a low shot from the visitors in the 75th minute. Not long after, Evie Smart was still standing strong, denying a goal from the opponents, keeping Guiseley firmly in the contest.

In the 70th minute Kellingley took the lead after winning possession in midfield, with Guiseley unable to clear their lines. Gabby Preston who had threatened all game with her pace and direct running was substituted for Elora Iavicoli and Ellie Collinson replaced by Katy Greenwood as Guiseley pushed for an equaliser.

Miyuki won another free kick in the edge of the area with 10 minutes to go. She took the shot herself which the keeper scrambled away, Emily Gascoyne’s follow up hit the post from a narrow angle. With minutes remaining, Kellingley doubled their lead, tapping in from close range after Evie’s initial save fell into the path of the striker.

Final score: 0-2.

Summary:

In terrible conditions, Guiseley more than stepped up to the challenge posed by higher ranked opponents, playing much the better football. The score line did not do their efforts justice.

Venue: Guiseley High School
Date: 19th October 2025
Competition: County Trophy Match – First Round
Kick-off: 2:00PM