Guisborough Town Ladies 1-1 Poppleton Ladies

Match Report

Guisborough had to settle for a draw this Sunday on a cold, wet frustrating afternoon for the ladies.

First half started well for Poppleton who saw the majority of chances going their way but Guisborough’s defensive players kept strong to prevent their chances turning into goals. The deadlock was broken around 30 minutes in when Olivia Jeal’s cross into the box from the left was met by Emma Walton who, after a tussle with Poppleton defenders, clashed with their goalkeeper and the re-bound rolled into the net. The lead didn’t last long when a Poppleton corner was swung into the box and Guisborough’s player, Rachel Dimmick, attempted to clear the ball.

Under pressure from an away player, the ball struck Rachel’s arm and the referee deemed this to be a purposeful handball and awarded Poppleton with a penalty. Goalkeeper Gemma ‘Lefty’ Pollock had no chance saving it when the ball bounced off the inside of the post and into the net.

Half Time: 1-1

The second half saw both teams create opportunities but it was Guisborough who had the lions share of possession and subsequent chances. Unfortunately for the players, these chances did not result in a goal and left everyone on and off the pitch frustrated that a winner could not be found. Poppleton nearly clenched the win with a long range shot towards the end of the game, only to hit the crossbar, to the relief of the home team.

Full Time: 1-1

Guisborough would have welcomed three points in the race for the title but in the end had to settle for just one. Missing some key players, the ladies struggled to score against a strong Poppleton team. The pace of the league and cup fixtures since their return from lockdown may have started to take effect. Player of the Match was awarded to Louise Skiba for her effort in defence, keeping a clean sheet in open play after struggling with injuries.

Next week the ladies are at home again, this time to York St John who they haven’t played this season yet. With York in second place in the league, Guisborough need to take the three points to close the gap and keep on track for the league title.