Guiseley Lionesses Development Squad returning to winning ways to earn all three points against Kirkstall Park Crusaders, writes Olivia Bastian.
Just two minutes in, Sarah Woods tried her luck early with a strong shot that flew just wide, setting the tone for an attacking start. At the four minute mark, Amber Craddock opened the scoring with a great finish to make it 1–0. The lead didn’t last long though, as Kirkstall hit back quickly to level things at 1–1.
The game continued at a fast pace. Evie Smart made an excellent save in the eighth minute before Chicolle Dean delivered a dangerous corner that almost created another chance. Sarah Woods followed up with another effort that was well saved by the Kirkstall keeper.
Amber Craddock continued to threaten, firing over the bar on 10 minutes and another save was made by the Kirkstall keeper two minutes later. Meanwhile, Abby Clay was rock solid in defence, clearing danger and linking up well with Ellie Harrison, who delivered a string of corners that kept the pressure on the visitors.
Evie Smart was in top form between the posts, pulling off more great saves at 23 and 24 minutes to keep the scores level. Fresh legs came on as Chanel Stow and Alice Megson replaced Isabelle Day and Katy Greenwood and the team pushed forward once more.
At 44 minutes, the breakthrough came — Chanel Stow found the net to put the development squad back in front at 2–1 just before half-time!
The second half saw plenty more action. Olivia Adkins linked up nicely with Isla Megson, while Evie Smart continued her superb display, denying Kirkstall again at 53 minutes. Amber Craddock and Olivia Adkins both came close, but the Kirkstall keeper stood firm.
Eventually, Kirkstall managed to equalise again on 70 minutes bringing the score to 2–2, but the response was immediate. Just two minutes later, Olivia Adkins finished confidently to restore the lead at 3–2!
Evie Smart then produced one of the moments of the match — a fantastic penalty save in the 80th minute to keep the advantage intact. Olivia Adkins had two additional late chances that were stopped, before Sarah Woods sealed the victory with a goal in the 85th minute, wrapping up a brilliant team performance and a 4–2 win!
Summary
The team put in a excellent performance to claim a 4-2 win against Kirkstall, showing great teamwork and determination throughout, from brilliant saves to brilliant shots.
Player of the match:
Chicolle Dean stood out with her excellent control and composure on the ball. For instance, Chicolle was consistent on playing the ball to ensure it was kept close before passing strategically to her teammates. Therefore, her clever passing and hardwork helped link defence and attack, making her a key player in the 4-2 victory.
Match Report of Guiseley Lionesses Development vs Kirkstall Crusaders 4-2
Venue: Guiseley High school
Date: Sunday 26th October 2025
Kick-off: 2:00pm
