Guiseley 3, Halesowen 0

HALESOWEN'S FA Cup run came to an heart-breaking end this weekend, as they were outplayed by Conference North heavyweights Guiseley, writes Reece Chalton.

The Yeltz made one change to the side that started against Kings Lynn, with Aaron Forde taking Danny Bragoli's place in the side, who was demoted to the bench. Guiseley made two changes to the side that came out triumphant against Stalybridge Celtic in midweek, as Leeds United loanee Jake Skelton and Captain Andy Holdsworth returned to the side.

The Lions' target man Adam Boyes, who has netted 6 times in his last 7 appearances, had several chances to get on the scoresheet, as he had four opportunities in the 20 minutes, the closest come in the 18th minutes, as he broke through the Yeltz defence an hit a shot that somehow rebounded off the inside of the post and came back into play.

However, Halesowen couldn't handle the strength of the Guiseley attack and The Lions broke the deadlock on 31 minutes, as Nicky Boshell's heavily deflected shot left Matt Sargeant stranded on his goal line, and he could only watch the ball roll past him into the net.

Guiseley doubled their lead 2 minute before the break, as Boshell's blocked shot flew into the path of Gavin Rothery who poked the ball into the net from 3 yards out.

Halesowen had their first chance on 45 minutes, as Iyseden Christie's header just flew wide of the left hand post.

The second half was a much more impressive performance from the Yeltz, as they created more chances for themselves, and they came close on 50 minutes, as the attackers stringed a few passes together before giving the ball to Robert Thompson-Brown who blasted the ball over the bar.

The game was then put out of Halesowen's reach on 68 minutes, as Wayne Brooksby took the ball towards goal and he hit the ball under the outrunning Sargeant and he watched the ball roll into the net to put a 3 goal deficit between the sides.

Halesowen couldn't break through the strength of the Lions defence and the game ended with Guiseley being put into the hat for the 4th Qualfying Round and The Yeltz made the long trip home empty handed once again, bringing back memories of defeat to Marske this time last year.

Attendance: 671 Halesowen: Sargeant, Green, Charlton, Forde (Tonks), Hull, Tilt, Kettle (Bragoli), Thompson-Brown (Turner), Christie, Haseley, Lait. Unused subs: Sam Pearson, Aaron Griffiths.