Guiseley 1 Altrincham 1

Guiseley’s preparations to host newly-crowned Blue Square Bet North champions Chester did not go according to plan as they finished with ten men and had to settle for a draw at home to play-off rivals Altrincham tonight.

Guiseley’s inclusion in the end-of-season extras is already confirmed but they hope to hold on to their second place. They are also keen to rain on Chester’s parade by taking three points off them on Saturday.

But the Lions really rode their luck in the first half against Lee Sinnott’s Altrin-cham, with Damien Reeves going close early on and the home side’s keeper Steve Drench tested regularly.

When Drench was beaten, the post came to his rescue, denying Jake Moult. Drench later palmed two very good shots round the upright for corners as the visitors pressed.

Having soaked up a lot of pressure, Guiseley took a fortuitous lead into the break. Josh Wilson slotted under Alty keeper Stuart Coburn after breaking into the area in the 35th minute.

Guiseley were reduced in numbers in the 65th minute when Kevin Holsgrove was shown a straight red card and, just over ten minutes later, Moult slotted in the equaliser at the far post.

It could have been a lot worse for the home side as Altrincham were awarded a late penalty, Drench getting a yellow card for his challenge on James Lawrie, but the keeper saved Ryan Brooke’s spot-kick.

FC Halifax Town remain firmly in the play-off picture after their 2-0 win over Corby Town at the Shay.

Scott McManus gave the Shaymen a first-half lead and James Bolton cemented their win with a second five minutes from time.

Halifax head to Boston United on Saturday.