WHAT has happened to York City?

They are free-falling into a relegation battle, unless something is done quickly. After Tuesday night's defensive shambles in the second half against Lincoln City, I would like to make a suggestion.

Much as I admire the work Chris Brass has done this season, it is time he looked closely at his own form on the field in the past few games.

As a former manager myself, I know how hard it is to have the conviction to drop oneself, when you enjoy playing. But it is a sign of a good manager when you can do so.

As there is no chance of promotion now, perhaps it would be a good time for Brass to give himself a rest. It would also enable him to assess other players in pressure games, as there are plenty coming up.

Because of our lack of striker power at the moment, we have had to rely on the defence far too often for getting results. They have, on the whole, done a good job but Tuesday night showed, when they crack, what disastrous results they can cause.

Alan Hill,

Park Street,

Ripon.

Updated: 10:11 Saturday, February 21, 2004