Hyde 0, Guiseley 1

A single second-half goal was enough for Guiseley to gain another Blue Square Bet North victory and extend their lead at the top of the table.

The Lions’ advantage is now two points after second-placed AFC Telford United were held to a draw.

Former Bantams boss Nicky Law’s Alfreton Town bounced back from dropping two points on New Year’s Day to win and climb above Telford.

A game of few chances saw hosts Hyde determined to defend well against the leaders.

The first attempt Guiseley managed on target was a shot from Warren Peyton that was well saved in the 17th minute.

Leading scorer James Walshaw placed a deft chip over the Hyde keeper early in the second half but the effort was hacked away.

Some players and supporters thought it had crossed the line before being cleared but the officials were adamant the whole of the ball had not.

Walshaw was not to be denied and he scored what proved to be the winner in the 55th minute with a neat finish when through in a one-on-one situation.

The Lions created a few more openings and forced set-pieces with the home defence sitting so deep, Joe O’Neill going close with a header to a cross from Simon Baldry.

Former Terriers and Avenue player Baldry, who had made his Guiseley debut as a right back on Saturday, came off the bench to replace Gavin Rothery wide right in a front three just after the hour.

Liam Needham put a shot and a header over the target either side of O’Neill’s close call and Walshaw had a late effort saved as the Lions attempted to put a gloss on their win.

Six points from two games in three days meant it was a fine start to 2011 for Guiseley but they will be aware that Alfreton have three games in hand.