CAN you kick it? If so, then a chance to play for York City will go under the hammer tomorrow at the Minstermen's Bootham Crescent open day.

The City Supporters' Trust is offering fans a unique opportunity to play in the game that will bring the curtain down on what will possibly be the last ever season at the club's historic home for the last 70 years.

There will be 22 places up for grabs, 11 will play in the home kit and 11 in the away kit.

Each successful bidder will experience what it is like to be a City footballer at first hand.

At the end of the upcoming season the two teams, made up of winning bidders, will come head-to-head.

Each player will be welcomed by chairman Steve Beck at the players' entrance and ushered into their respective dressing room.

Here they will change into their kit, each bearing the individual's name, and receive their team talk from their manager.

The home team will be bossed by City player-manager Chris Brass, while the away team will come under the guidance of an as yet unnamed former City chief.

After a warm-up session, the teams will line-up for a souvenir photograph before the match is played over two, 25-minute halves.

The inspiration for the auction came from City fan Pete Brandon, who responded to an appeal for fundraising ideas in the Evening Press.

He admitted he cannot wait to get bidding. Said Brandon: "It's been a dream of mine to play for City ever since I was about seven years old, but unfortunately due to me being useless at football I didn't think I'd ever get the chance - until now.

"I really hope the auction raises some serious cash for the club - my wallet's ready."

There is a reserve price of £70 per place to cover the cost of supplying the kit.

The auction will take place in the Social Club at Bootham Crescent tomorrow, starting at 2.00pm.

The open day kicks off at 11am.

Updated: 12:11 Saturday, July 12, 2003