CITY director Sophie McGill this week explained the reasoning behind the decision not to present the club's major player of the year award prior to last Saturday's final home game of the season.

A number of supporters were disappointed that the Billy Fenton Memorial Award was not handed over to the winner, Chris Brass, before the game against Exeter, in line with tradition in recent seasons.

The trophy will be presented to the City skipper by Fenton's widow, Margot, at the 'end of season party' at Ikon & Diva nightclub on Sunday, May 18.

McGill explained that a mixture of police advice and manager Terry Dolan's desire to have his troops focusing totally on the crunch game ahead lay behind the decision.

"The cancellation of the event was requested by the manager, who wanted the players to remain focused on the game and did not want any distractions," she said.

"It was therefore agreed that the presentations would take place after the game. However, we were then informed by the police that they were unhappy with this decision as they feared possible unrest after the final whistle.

"Prior to the Trust's take-over, Peter Salter, commercial manager, had arranged the end of season event at Ikon & Diva.

"The event will now serve as a presentation evening, but more importantly is a celebration of the club's survival. The event is being held at no cost to the club and could earn York City up to £7,000, essential income during the close season.

"I hope (the fans) appreciate our decision to respect the manager's wishes on this occasion and will support the event fully.

"It is a fantastic fundraising opportunity for York City and a chance for us all to celebrate with the players of the past and present the survival of our football club."

THE top prize has already been claimed, but points continue to be dished out in the Evening Press player of the year rankings.

Chris Brass failed to add to his untouchable points haul in the 2-0 defeat at Exeter as midfielder Lee Bullock got the man of the match award and three points.

The two points garnered from the Grecians by Lee Nogan saw the striker leapfrog the now departed duo of Peter Duffield and Alan Fettis to claim fourth place overall. Goalkeeper Michael Ingham got the remaining point to move into double figures.

Latest positions: Brass 44 points, Smith 35, Parkin 24, Nogan 23, Duffield 22, Fettis 22, Nogan 21, Edmondson 16, Bullock 13, Cook 13, Cowan 12, Cooper 11, Ingham 10, Fox 7, Potter 6, Reddy 6, Beresford 5, Brackstone 5, Hobson 5, Jones 4, Whitehead 3, Wise 3, Shandran 2, Graydon 1.

Updated: 10:37 Saturday, May 03, 2003