For many*, the Menston-Guiseley derby in the Craven Aire and Wharfe Junior Football League has filled the hole left by the almost six year absence of a competitive Newcastle United versus Sunderland match up.
Today's encounter had the added frisson that both teams were fighting for the League title. Unfortunately the half term break interrupted the momentum that had been built up behind Menston Rangers and old habits resurfaced. A slow start meant that the home side were 2 goals up within the opening 20 minutes and against a team playing slick and effective football, that would prove decisive. Tactical changes improved the Menston performance and just before the half time break Lambertino headed in from a Bates corner to reduce the deficit.
Half time came with Menston threatening to take control but at the start of the second half, Guiseley reasserted their earlier dominance and went 3-1 after a couple of minutes. Menston were reduced to half chances and Guiseley made it 4-1 with about 15 to go. A fine individual goal from Holliday-Gomes reduced the advantage to 4-2 but by then only 3 minutes remained and despite plenty of late pressure another goal failed to come.
Special mention to fine performances from defensive duo Casey and Houghton but overall Guiseley were much the better side.
Plenty left to play for in the remaining weeks of the season.

*some^

^Stephen Miller