New and 'old' endorsed a York City stab at success in the 1998-99 season.

Player-coach Neil Thompson asserted that the Minstermen were capable of a promotion play-off position, while former City plunder-man Paul Barnes saluted the potential of the club where he struck 'goald'.

Both delivered their verdicts after City enjoyed the best of a 1-1 draw with Barnes' current club Huddersfield Town last night.

Thompson's forecast was based on the evidence of the entire pre-season during which he has operated as player-coach at Bootham Crescent.

With two friendlies to go against Middlesbrough at home tomorrow and then at Scottish first Division side Airdrie on Saturday the 34-year-old defender insisted the Minstermen were in good shape for the August 8 kick-off at Preston North End.

"There's so many players here with ability and potential that I can certainly see us looking at a top six place next season," he said.

"We've a lot of young lads here in their early 20's and younger who just need that little bit of guidance. This is going to be a big season for them and the next two or three years could determine where they are going to go in the game."

Thompson believed his experience garnered from almost a decade and more than 400 senior games, plus that of summer recruits Neil Woods and Steve Agnew, would prove vital in steadying the otherwise youthful City squad.

Another reason for Thompson's optimism was the switch to three centre-backs, an evolution in style at the club first deployed regularly two months ago and used throughout since the return to training this summer.

"We played it in the final four games of last season and we got two wins and two draws. The proof is in the pudding," said Thompson.

"I think it helps us to stay more solid, especially away from home and the players are getting more used to it every game. It's a bonus when so many of the staff can alternate their positions, which also helps."

Striker Barnes, who featured only in the dying minutes of last night's game, was adamant his former City club could succeed.

"From where I sat on the bench you could see that City look a good side," said the man, who notched 85 goals in 178 games for the Minstermen.

"They stroke the ball around well, they are tight at the back and sharp up front. There's no reason why they should not be up there challenging at the end of the new season."

see MATCH REPORT 'Rowe strike ensures share of the spoils'

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