Guiseley bowed out of the F.A. Cup after a disappointing performance against Northumberland outfit Ashington.

Despite the difference of three tiers between the sides, it was the hosts that started the stronger as they asked Guiseley a number of questions. Chris Fawcett went close with his attempt while a number of corners and threatening crosses were also slung in to test Guiseley’s defence. The visitors’ only first half attempts of note were a long-range effort from Michael Burns and a curling strike from Gavin Rothery.

The breakthrough was to come midway through the first half when Jamie Clarke slid his shot home after a quick break from the hosts. The rest of the half was much more of the same, seeing the visitors trail to an impressive Ashington side who had already demonstrated their giant-killing pedigree by knocking out Vauxhall Motors to reach this round.

Guiseley manager Steve Kittrick wasted no time in changing things around, bringing on Danny Boshell and Gavin Allott for Burns and Andy Holdsworth. While the changes did improve things and saw Guiseley keep much of the possession and create chances, the Lions still found it tough to break down the Ashington back line.

A number of crosses flashed across the box while Lee Ellington had a penalty shout denied after appearing to be hauled down in the box but it wasn’t to be. Cue jubilant scenes at Woodhorn Lane from the home fans and frustration evident on the faces of the travelling supporters.

Kittrick said after the match: “It’s a massive opportunity lost but fair play to them, they’re organised and they’ve competed. Anybody that comes up here will have to compete, but I think our first-half performance has let us down today.”

“It was always going to be a potentially horrible day and it’s been just that – a horrible day.”

Guiseley side: Drench, Clarke, Merris, Toner, Ainge (c), Bower, Baldry, Holdsworth (Boshell 46), Ellington, Rothery, Burns (Allott 46)

Subs not used: Booker, Holland, Giles

Attendance: 741