YORK Schoolboys under-12s endured a disappointing end to the season when they lost 1-0 to Barnsley in the Michael Dale Trophy final.
A bright start saw Louis Cade, Jamie Spaven and Matty Roberts all go close for York at Pocklington Town.
Spaven, in particular, caused the Tykes’ defence all sorts of problems down the left flank, where he was ably assisted by Jarrad Benson.
Barnsley were limited to one attempt on target before the break but forged ahead ten minutes after the restart with a deflected edge-of-thebox effort.
Captain Sam Drake drove York on with some outstanding work in midfield but the last chance to force extra time fell to Lewis Ducey.
After powering his way through the opposition defence, Ducey drilled the ball over the advancing ’keeper but it also cleared the crossbar.
The final marked the farewell appearances of Sam Fielding and Rhys Meredith, who will not be eligible next season due to their schools lying outside the new catchment areas.
Assistant manager Steven Drake said: “Both have played key roles in York’s success over the last two years and will be difficult to replace.”
York U13s enjoyed a 2-0 home win over Spen Valley following Joey McCormick and Ben Hirst efforts.
A dominant first half saw York create several chances but Hirst shot over from 20 yards and captain Ben Godfrey saw a long-range effort saved.
Full-back Matty Mulhearn and midfielder Jake Wright also tried their luck from distance before McCormick was brought down for a penalty after 23 minutes.
Godfrey’s spot-kick was well saved, though.
Eventually, on the stroke of half-time, the hosts forged ahead when Hirst teed up McCormick, who rifled home from 18 yards.
York then sealed victory 15 minutes from time with Joe Wales’ cushioned header from McCormick’s cross enabling Hirst to net from six yards.
Assistant manager Andy McCormick said: “The lads put in a good team performance against a much-improved Spen Valley outfit. We were worthy winners and, but for some more composure in front of goal, could have won by a bigger margin.
“The performance bodes well for the rest of this exciting season with some important games still to come. Liam Neal was again outstanding in defence and worthy of his man-of-the-match award.”
York travel to East Riding today in a double-header league and Yorkshire Cup quarter-final fixture.
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