National League: Experience of defensive pairing is helping Guiseley adapt well to life at higher level

The Lions have taken six points from three games and a goal against column of just one has played a major part.

Bower, a former defender with Bradford City, said: “In the Kidderminster game (which Guiseley won 1-0 on Saturday), if it had been last season we might have conceded and maybe ended up losing or drawing.

“But that steel and experience we have now in Lockwood and Atkinson has certainly helped.

“They have struck up a good understanding early on and the only goal we have conceded has been a set-piece and we have been solid from open play.

“If you are tight at the back, you don’t need much at the other end to win games and so it has proved with one goal seeing us win our last two games.

“The way all the new lads have settled in as well has been good and there is real competition for places as well.”

Danny Boshell is back from suspension for Guiseley ahead of the trip to Cumbria.

FC Halifax Town have endured a difficult start to the season and sit bottom with no points.

Tonight’s trip to Tranmere Rovers, unbeaten in three games following relegation from the Football League, promises to be tough, but manager Neil Aspin has a fully fit squad to choose from apart from long-term absentee Richard Peniket.