Hot property

With Darren Edmondson sidelined, the 22-year-old Bullock has been handed the captain's armband and is revelling in the responsibility.

Bullock had a decisive hand in City's 2-1 victory over Bristol Rovers, scoring City's opening goal and also playing a part in Aron Wilford's winner.

Bullock, who set himself a ten-goal target at the start of the season, is now City's leading scorer with three strikes.

His versatility is also proving useful and it is probably no coincidence that his return to front-line duties from his more usual midfield role has coincided with City's return to form.

City chief Brass admits if Bullock continues to make progress he will soon be hot property.

"He is one of those players I am going to struggle to keep hold of," said Brass.

"But that's what I want. I want these players to progress with York City or at a higher level."

Although it is in midfield where Bullock has become a virtual ever present in recent seasons, Brass has indicated the Stockton-born player will continue in his attacking role for the time being.

"I think it suits him," Brass told the Evening Press.

"He holds the ball up well and he's very good in the air and he reads the game well.

"I'm fortunate to have a number of players who can play in a number of position and do it well.

"Bully is certainly one of them and for a midfielder-cum-striker there are not that many people who dominate him in the air."

Brass saluted the character and commitment of his players after they ended a run of four games without a win.

The victory over Rovers marked City's first three-point haul of September and lifted the Minstermen back up to fifth in the Division Three table.

A delighted Brass reckons the spirit and togetherness of his squad played a major part in the return to winning ways.

"I wish people could sometimes come in the dressing room and see what that result meant to us," he said.

"I have had to do my homework on every player. I cannot afford to bring anyone in who is not prepared to work for me or work for York City

"Everyone is coming through and playing their part. Even the lads in the stand have congratulated those who have played. That means a lot."

Brass added: "It wasn't the greatest of performances but it was still very good.

"We all worked extremely hard and as a unit.

"I think the fitness levels showed within the camp as well and there was an awful lot of positives.

"Everybody is together."

The City chief, who restored Richard Hope and Richard Cooper to the starting line-up, admitted City's defensive showing was much improved.

He said: "It was a better defensive display.

"I asked one or two questions of Richard Hope and he has come in and given me the answers.

"That's all you can ask and that's what is so good about this squad.

"Having lost three games it was a test of character. Everything is rosy when you win four games but it can gloss over one or two problems."

Updated: 10:44 Monday, September 22, 2003