Guiseley AFC Academy hosted a revitalised Altrincham FC, who came over the Pennines full of confidence having won their last four league games. Back in October the Young Lions were held to a 2-2 draw so they knew that to gain the 3 points they would have to put in a strong performance.
Altrincham looked bright from kick-off and Richie Semple and Neil Toulson’s youngsters created a couple half-chances but not enough to threaten Greg Moorhouse in goal. After only 7 minutes Guiseley AFC’s Cubs broke the deadlock. A corner from the left found Jordan Hendrie on the edge of the box who struck hard and low into the bottom left-hand corner of outstretched Altrincham keeper’s goal. Two mins later Hendrie found space in the box after an attempted clearance and he struck powerfully through a mass of bodies to make it 2-0.
Guiseley AFC’s Cubs continued to dominate possession and created a number of clear chances without finding the end product. However, in 25 mins Redmond Lee broke away from the clutches of the Altrincham centre-back and took a strike from 30 yards which the keeper could only parry into his own net. In 38 minutes Guiseley went 4-0 after Cassius Jules was brought down in the penalty area after he had chased down the full-back, dispossessed him and evaded two tackles. Redmond Lee stepped up to score and keep his impressive 100% penalty kick success rate.
At half-time Academy manager, Dave Currie and coach Danny Ellis gave simple instructions – keep the shape and discipline. In the 2nd half Altrincham reorganised and looked brighter. Both Alty wide men were exciting players but the found full-backs Jonson Butterfield and Jimmy Carlton in excellent form in attack and defence. The Academy lads stuck to the task, showed maturity and discipline and the score remained 4-0 until the final whistle.
This was a ruthless performance by the Academy and pushed them into a clear 2nd place behind leaders Gateshead. A number of players could have received the Man of the Match Award however the work-rate and quality of two 16 year olds Jimmy Carlton and Cassius Jules means they share this accolade.
Next up is a tough trip away to Macclesfield Town but after two back-to-back 4-0 victories the Academy players will go into the game with the confidence that if their work-rate and tempo remains high they can produce quality performances.
