Gloucester City AFC manager James Rowe has said that it was really pleasing for his side to come out on top in a 2-1 win at Guiseley to move seven points clear at the top of the National League North.
City were left frustrated in the first half, with few chances being made, relying on England U19s’ goalkeeper Louie Moulden to get them out of trouble.
Matt McClure’s shot from George Carline’s cross was the best chance for the visitors in the 30th minute, but it hit the woodwork and rebounded out of play as the first 45 minutes ended goalless.
The Tigers pressed on in the second half, with McClure converting from the spot three minutes in, before Akwasi Asante took advantage from Ben Morgan’s flick-on three minutes later to double the lead.
Guiseley pulled one back from the spot in the 87th minute after Kevin Dawson was sent off for a second yellow card, but the visitors held on to extend their lead at the top of the National League North table to seven points.
A look around the @Vanarama National League North 👀👇 pic.twitter.com/Jvx1i1qZBL
— Gloucester City AFC (@GCAFCofficial) November 21, 2020
Despite the struggles of the first half, Rowe was happy with the result.
“Another three points on the road, a third game in a week it’s really pleasing to get the victory. That’s two wins and one draw this week, so a pleasing win,” Rowe said.
“[We were] not good enough in the first half. Not to our standards, there were some choice words at halftime and I think we put that right in the second half.
“The second was very good, we landed on second balls. The substitution worked and we had a bit more stability in midfield.
“The second barrier worked better with the two holding midfielders. When the ball popped out we picked it up and that’s where the two goals also came from. We picked up the second ball and we kept attacks flowing, and they couldn’t really get out. Eventually, the pressure told with the two goals really.
“I thought we were in control until Kev got sent off, and then we were backs against the wall for a bit. But credit to the lads, they dug in and we’re now seven points clear and obviously delighted.”
City are on the road again to face ninth in the league, Gateshead, on Tuesday and despite their current form, Rowe will prepare his squad accordingly.
“It’s a quick turnaround and we’re going in with confidence,” he added.
UP NEXT | #GFC 🆚 #GCAFC
— Gloucester City AFC (@GCAFCofficial) November 22, 2020
đź—“ 24/11/2020
🏆 National League North
🆚 @GatesheadFC
đź“Ť Gateshead International Stadium
⌚️ 19:00 KO
đź“ą Live Stream details https://t.co/QUk5wklfAg pic.twitter.com/N8mIKUMHPk
“We’re showing real metal as a squad now. Obviously I’m delighted with where we are, but like I’ve always said we’ll keep our feet on the ground and prepare properly. We’ll prepare tomorrow with the analysts, do our homework and make sure we’re ready for Gateshead.”
