University 1sts 3 – 3 University 2nds
Two contrasting goalkeeping performances decided the result of this preseason run out for the university football sides.
Whilst 2nds stopper Tim Green denied the new look 1sts with a string of impressive saves, it was an error from his opposite number Sam Clitheroe that allowed York’s second string back into the game.
The 1sts started the stronger and made their superiority pay with two neat finishes from Joe Cooper giving them a 2-0 lead midway through the first half. But a powerful shot from seconds captain Ben Smith halved the deficit just before the break. Despite dominating possession the 1sts appeared a little off the pace and their colleagues grew in confidence with a few long range efforts before man of the match Miles McDermott capitalised on Clitheroe’s rash decision to race from his goal by slipping it through his legs for the equaliser.
As the game entered its final stages McLeod’s first string finally began to create the chances that their possession deserved, finally resulting in Joe Cooper completing his hat trick with ten minutes remaining. But that would not be enough for the win. In the final seconds of the game a swift move and pinpoint cross from the right allowed the busy Aquilino to prod home for the equaliser.