GUISELEY progressed to the Second Round Qualifying of the Emirates FA Cup following a comfortable 3-0 win over fellow Northern Premier League outfit Ashton United at Nethermoor Park on Saturday, writes Edward Robertson.

It was a satisfying afternoon for manager Mark Bower, as his side wrapped up three successive victories in all competitions. “It was really good, we started really well. We were on the front foot, and we imposed our formation on theirs. Ashton are a very good team, and they had a couple of chances, but we started well in the second half, and the second goal was a real killer.”

It was a fast start for the Lions as they took the lead within ten minutes of the tie. A fantastic lobbed ball was troublesome for Ashton goalkeeper Connor O’Keefe. After a scramble, Gabriel Johnson leapt upon the ball, squaring it to Will Longbottom who finished calmly.

The Lions continued to assert their dominance. A tidy piece of play between Leo Farrell and Ollie Brown released Johnson, whose shot was blocked.

However, as half time neared, the visitors fought for an equaliser. Former Lion Tom Denton’s header was flicked towards Darius Osei. The striker controlled the ball calmly and took aim only for his effort to shave Joe Cracknell’s near post.

It was a narrow lead to take into the second half. It was doubled only minutes after the teams had emerged from the break. After fantastic interplay between Brown and Johnson, Adriano Moke picked out John Lufudu. The midfielder’s crisp strike tore into the net, reaffirming Guiseley’s advantage.

Ten minutes later, the hosts once again threatened to score. Johnson found himself through on goal, but was tugged to the floor by Louie White, forcing referee James Gallagher to point to the spot. The decision sparked a furious backlash from the visiting players and their coaches. The already substituted Jak McCourt was sent off for his part in proceedings.

After a long pause, that saw another member of the Robins’ dugout see red, Johnson stepped up to take the penalty, which was turned away by O’Keefe. However, the striker was alert and steered home the rebound.

Guiseley continued to control the tie expertly, with the visitors struggling to register a shot on goal.

With just under ten minutes remaining, White swung in a dangerous cross which found Osei. His effort was handled well by Cracknell.

It was a confident victory against an in form Ashton United side that left home fans more than satisfied at their side’s performance. Bower was glad the Lions could get the job done on the day.

“A nice win, you just want to get through. A replay would have been an absolute nightmare for us, so I’m really pleased with the lads.”

Guiseley's opponents for the Emirates FA Cup Second Round Qualifying were confirmed following the draw at Wembley Stadium this afternoon.

The Lions will host 1874 Northwich on Saturday 14 September.

Ticket and match details will be confirmed in due course.