Guiseley 1 Altrincham 0 Atkinson writes his name in Guiseley history books

Guiseley players celebrate after Rob Atkinson (second left) scored their first goal during the Vanarama National League match at Nethermoor Park, Guiseley. (Picture: Anna Gowthorpe)

Atkinson headed home Nicky Boshell’s cross after just 16 minutes and Guiseley proved more than adept at withstanding Altrincham’s attempts at clawing their way back into the game as Mark Bower’s got off the mark in the top rung of the non-league ladder.

It was a bright start for the hosts as both Adam Boyes and Tom Craddock had efforts during a period of dominance. They were rewadred for their fast start with what proved the only goal as Atkinson headed home.

Guiseley continued to have control but Altrincham showed they could create with James Lawrie having an effort saved.

And the visitors were close to equalising when substitute Scott Leather forced Steve Drench to punch the ball clear from under his own cross bar.

Guiseley should have doubled their lead with Boyes strike being well saved by Altrincham keeper Stuart Coburn.

Both sides contributed to an entertaining game, but it was the hosts who were smart with their counter-attacking play on an historic night.

Guiseley: Drench, Lowe, Lockwood, Craddock (Dickinson 87), Brooksby, Lawlor, Boyes, Hatfield, Boshell (Rothery 63), Thompson (Toulson 70), Atkinson. Unused substitutes: Rothery, Hall

Altrincham: Coburn, Densmore, Griffin, Lawrie (Crowther 81), Havern (Leather 30), Moult, Marshall, O’Keefe, Rankine, Reeves (Bowerman 66), Sinnott. Unused substitutes: Griffith, Deasy

Referee: M Salisbury (Lancashire).