final again

Sandy Lane.....0 Gremlins......4

Guiseley Gremlins Under-13's amazing run continues. Unbeaten since the first game of the season in league, cup and prestige friendly games this latest victory in the Craven League Cup semi-finals came with two goals in each half against a strong and committed Sandy Lane side.

This ensured Gremlins' third appearance in the cup final in as many years.

The Gremlins won a corner in the opening seconds with Lewis Blakey hitting the side netting and they soon opened the scoring through AndySimmons, whose quick footwork took him past the defenders to slot the ball home.

Will Stubbs put them two up when he beat the off-side trap to volley in off the post. Sandy Lane fought back hard but their attacks foundered as they came up against full-back BenWebster in commanding form while 'keeper Jake Wray marshalled his defence superbly and brought off a stunning reaction save with his feet.

Into the second-half both teams were having difficulty playing controlled football as the ball bounced high on the firm pitch. Chris Napoli was winning the aerial battle in midfield for Guiseley but Sandy Lane were having the best of it elsewhere as they fired

a free-kick just over the bar and James Campbell had to stop a dangerous attack with a finely timed tackle.

Blakey then made a glorious run down the right wing and passed the ball inside for Stubbs to slip the ball wide of the 'keeper to put Guiseley three up and although Sandy

Lane went close, putting a ball narrowly wide, it was Guiseley's game from then on.

Kris Hudson saw a good attempt scrape the angle of the post and bar while Stubbs had a free-kick brilliantly palmed round the post by the Sandy Lane 'keeper. However, Stubbs finally wrapped up the tie for the Gremlins when he slipped the ball past the 'keeper again to claim his hat-trick. Man-of-the-Match was Joe Parry for his speedy runs down the left flank.

The Gremlins are involved in important league action at Bingley Juniors on Sunday but they will also play Middlesbrough FC away on Saturday, having beaten them at home 4-1 a few weeks ago.

Guiseley's growing reputation has led to match invitations from yet more top clubs and sponsorships are invited for next year's club tour.

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