Brass wants polished performance

Tomorrow's match with promotion-chasing Mansfield at Bootham Crescent is the last of the campaign for Brass, who misses City's final two outings due to suspension.

Restored to the centre of defence in the last few weeks, the 26-year-old battler has helped oversee the Minstermen's end of season climb to mid-table respectability and three successive clean sheets.

Speaking to the Evening Press, Brass is keen for yet another shut-out against the Stags tomorrow to round off his campaign with a flourish.

As importantly, the City captain said after a season of underachievement another clean-sheet will provide further proof that the long search for consistency has been realised

"We have shown on our day we are more than a match for anyone, especially in the Cup," said Brass.

"But what we have not had all season is consistency. We have been Jekyll and Hyde; one week we have produced a great performance then a week later we are left scratching our heads.

"We have got to get the horrible side right. In horrible games we have to make sure we come-off the park with a 1-0 win then the performance is largely forgotten.

"Hopefully, I can get another clean sheet under my belt tomorrow and that is really what we have to build on for next year.

"We've had something like 15 or 16 clean sheets this season, which isn't too bad.

"But in the goals against column we've still conceded far too many

"We are working on it, and hopefully by next season it will be better."

He added: "It's a rebuilding process at the moment.

Brass admits Mansfield, who climbed back into the last automatic promotion spot with their 2-1 win over Cheltenham in midweek, will provide a stern test of City's new found credentials.

"They've got everything to play for, which is better for us," said the City captain.

"Hopefully, they will bring a few supporters which should make for a decent atmosphere."

Updated: 09:10 Friday, April 12, 2002