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Mark Bower’s Lions paid the price for not taking their chances as Gateshead secured a 0-2 victory at Nethermoor.

Following last week’s disappointment against Aldershot, Bower adjusted his formation, playing both Will Hatfield and Zac Thompson in midfield alongside Jake Lawlor, with Ryan Toulson returning at right back and Tom Craddock starting as the lone striker.

The home side began strongly, forcing a flurry of corners and creating several shooting opportunities as the Tynesiders struggled to gain a foothold in the game. As the first half continued, Gateshead’s defence continued to withstand heavy pressure as Jordan Cranston and Ben Clark charged down two Wayne Brooksby shots and goalkeeper Sam Russell was forced into action by Zac Thompson and Nicky Boshell, the latter from a well taken free kick.

Indeed, when the visitors did take the lead through Danny Johnson on 39 minutes, it was their first real opportunity of the game. Johnson finished well past young goalkeeper Daniel Atkinson, making his competitive debut for Guiseley.

Similarly to the opening of the second period against Aldershot, Guiseley conceded just moments after half time, Johnson again beating Atkinson from close range.

Bower soon made changes, bringing on former Gateshead man Adam Boyes for Tom Craddock, the returning Ben Parker for Adam Lockwood and finally Liam Dickinson for Boshell. But the frustration continued for the home side as several more good opportunities were not finished inside the Heed’s penalty area. Boyes himself had two good opportunities, the first headed narrowly wide and the second saved by Russell.

Guiseley will take heart from their exciting attacking play and restriction of chances for the visiting team, but Gateshead’s Johnson earned his side the three points by taking both of the chances presented to him.

The Lions now look ahead to the trip to Chester on Bank Holiday Monday.