The Lions’ seven-match unbeaten run in the Vanarama Conference North came to an end with a 1-0 defeat against Barrow on Saturday.

Mark Bower’s side tasted defeat for the first time since August at Holker Street thanks to an Andy Cook goal on the stroke of half-time, which ensured the hosts moved top while the visitors slipped to eighth.

As with the FA Cup defeat to Grimsby last week, Guiseley began well as Nicky Boshell and Oli Johnson went close with the Lions seeming to be coping well without striker Adam Boyes – out injured with an ankle problem.

With Alex Johnson on the bench, Wayne Brooksby was next to threaten but Bower’s side failed to get the breakthrough their early play had warranted.

The home side then began to assert their authority with Cook wasting two chances to open the scoring – half-volleying over the crossbar after the half hour before rounding Steven Drench soon after, failing to apply the finishing touch.

However, when Cook’s header was well saved by Drench, the ball fell kindly to former Grimsby man who finished to send the hosts in ahead at the break.

The better chances after the interval fell to the home side, who came close to adding to their advantage courtesy of chances from Jason Walker, Anthony Wilson and Cook.

Bower’s men almost salvaged an equaliser through an Alex Johnson one-on-one and Danny Boshell’s set-piece but Guiseley returned home pointless ahead of Lowestoft Town’s visit to Nethermoor on Saturday.

Mark Bower’s post-match interview.