Pedigree Bowden, the Northern Counties Hockey League premier division leaders, were made to fight every inch of the way by City of York for their 2-0 victory.

York were under pressure early on but in-form James Riley made fine saves from four short corners.

Playing on the break York forced the Bowden' keeper to a couple of good saves but the visitors took the lead when York didn't play to the whistle after an infringement.

Bowden, including England international Justin Pidcock, forced York to defend in depth after the home side were reduced to ten men for a spell.

When Bowden's 'keeper was yellow-carded York stepped up the pressure through Kyle Hogg, James Gilbert and Rob Hines. Bowden's substitute goalkeeper came to the rescue.

Once Bowden were restored to full-strength they took the initiative and an unmarked forward sealed the points with their second goal.

Despite defeat York will take heart from their performance against the best NCHL side they have played this season. Victory in their clash against fellow strugglers Warrington next week will lift them off the bottom.

City of York II drew 1-1 with hosts Leeds University in a niggly Northern East League Two game.

York fell behind to an early sloppy goal but could not convert any of the seven short corners they forced in the first-half.

However, midway through the second period York forced another short corner and Nick Carter fired home a shot off the 'keeper into the roof of the net.

The students responded with a late spell of pressure and York had to clear their lines from a last-minute short corner to preserve a draw.

After a brilliant start to the Yorkshire League division four season, City of York III have lost the plot.

They struggled to find any rhythm against an impressive Huddersfield II, losing 3-0.

Good defending by Jules Bellerby and 'keeper Dave Burtenshaw late in the game helped City of York IV to a 2-1 division five win at Chapletown II.

Excellent midfield play was the key to York's success with Adam Jackson providing the final pass for Mark Dransfield to open the scoring after ten minutes.

Chapletown equalised just before half-time but York regained the lead through Oliver Couttie.

In division seven, City of York V and Slazengers III drew 1-1, Jonathan Jenkin netting after a goalmouth scramble for York.

A solo dribble and strike from newcomer David Walker was the highlight of City of York VI's 3-1 defeat at Leeds University IV.