Back-to-back draws may have damaged Guiseley’s tilt for Blue Square Bet North promotion but they will be hearted by still retaining a play-off spot.

They will look to get back to winning ways on Saturday but it will not be easy against second-placed Stalybridge Celtic.

The Cheshire-based visitors will also feel they have a score to settle after the Lions knocked them out of the FA Cup at the start of last month.

There is a 12-point gap between the clubs so the Nethermoor outfit cannot afford to slip further behind, even through they have two games in hand.

Guiseley boss Steve Kittrick’s team selection may also be determined by circumstance.

Club spokesman Stuart Allen said: “We had no fresh injuries from the last game, which was very welcome news given the current situation.”

The Lions had to come from behind to earn a point at second-bottom Eastwood Town after playing almost 70 minutes with ten men.

Allen said: “Gavin Rothery missed out because of a suspected broken bone in his foot. He has been for more x-rays this week but we still don’t know if he will be able to take any part against Stalybridge.

“Mark Bower was still missing and Danny Ellis is a longer-term casualty. That was why it was so frustrating when Michael Brough was sent off for deliberate handball at Eastwood.

“We were also without our main keeper Steven Drench, who has a groin strain which is troubling him, so Jacob Giles was in goal.”

Guiseley have played the fewest games among the top five clubs but are 15 points off leaders Hyde, while Stalybridge could rise to the summit with a win. They are three points behind Hyde but have two games in hand and a similar goal difference.