REPORT BY: DAVID BRIDSON

REECE Kendall’s stunning first-half strike helped to see off Bamber Bridge in a 2-0 victory that took The Lions to 4th in the Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division on Saturday.

Kendall left visiting goalkeeper Aiden Hunt stranded in the 12 minute as he smashed the ball into the top-right corner from mid-way inside the visitors half.

The defender almost doubled Guiseley’s lead in the 21st minute as another rip-roaring hit nearly found the opposite corner.

Aiden Walker’s last minute header, which came after Hunt dropped a Leigh Whelan cross, was enough to see off the mid-table outfit.

The Lions dominated the first half with Jordi Nsaka nearly latching onto the end of impressive debutant Michael Afuye’s superb cross in the 18th minute.

Jameel Ible’s 26th minute shot bounced only slightly wide of the target before Gabriel Johnson’s close range header struck a post and fell into Hunt’s arms.

Nsaka was once more close to reaching a cross as Kallan Murphy whipped the ball into the box in the 38th minute.

The home defence were resilient during the second half as The Lions sought a winner.

Visiting striker Mark Cullen’s attempt flashed across goal in the 53rd minute while defender Chris Churchman’s effort flew wide 15 minutes later.

Prince Ekpolo’s splendid tackle prevented a Brig attack in the 76th minute. The same player took the sting out of Cullen’s shot with a great block in the closing stages.

Murphy’s 57th minute effort following a neat move was fired straight at Hunt before Afuye’s rasping drive smacked the crossbar on the hour mark.

The much-needed three points sealed the Lions’ first home win of 2024.

Fellow play-off contenders have lost points following Marske United’s decision to resign from the league due to financial issues.

Guiseley are at Whitby on Tuesday evening before they visit Atherton Collieries on Saturday. The Lions end the month at Nethermoor in a clash with Macclesfield on Saturday 27th January.