YORK City picked up four points in the space of three days, beating Maidenhead United 1-0 at York Road before drawing 1-1 with Oldham Athletic at the LNER Community Stadium.
Here are five things we learnt from the Bank Holiday weekend.
1. City’s defence looks strong
Though hampered by the absence of Adam Crookes, who injured his ankle in York’s 2-1 loss to Maidstone earlier this month, the City backline still looks particularly capable.
Sam Sanders, Maxim Kouogun and Fraser Kerr each looked solid for much, if not all, of the two games, with Kouogun being a particularly impressive presence at the back.
They won many of their aerial duels while keeping a tight line, conceding just one goal in 180 minutes of football.
2. York can compete in the National League
At Maidenhead, the Minstermen faced a team that have solidified themselves in the Vanarama National League over the past five seasons and came away as victors.
Against Oldham, City took on a side that just a few months ago were competing in the Football League.
In both games, York showed character and determination, valiantly defending their lead at York Road before battling back from a goal down at the LNER to take at least a point from both outings.
3. John-Lewis is a key asset
While City beat Maidenhead, it is worth considering that their only goal in that game came from a set piece.
While dead-ball situations are important, and nothing should be taken away from York’s win, Lenell John-Lewis was a notable absence from the side.
Scott Boden is a capable attacker and made some good runs and plays against the Magpies, but he seems to somewhat lack the pure physicality that John-Lewis brings.
When City’s skipper was included against Oldham, he made his presence known, constantly battling for aerial duels and winning several of them.
From those battles, he could play team-mates through or launch an attacking move, something City can benefit greatly from.
4. York’s fitness goes from strength to strength
Manager John Askey has previously lauded the fitness his team possess and it was particularly apparent across the Bank Holiday weekend.
Playing two games in three days, one of which was away from home, City put on two impressive performances with a side that remained much unchanged.
John-Lewis’ inclusion over Boden was the only change made to York’s side for their game against Oldham, though the players ran and pressed for the full 90 minutes, consistently looking to create something while also having to fight to reduce a one-goal deficit.
5. Pybus an impressive midfield addition
Dan Pybus was one of the later signings for City throughout the summer, the midfielder arriving on a free transfer after departing Scottish Championship side Dunfermline Athletic.
In his early games, he showcased his ability in the tackle and how well he can read and intercept the ball, but those qualities were especially apparent against Maidenhead and Oldham.
The 24-year-old is a consistent presence in the midfield for the Minstermen and his defensive prowess allows the likes of Maziar Kouhyar, Olly Dyson and Mitch Hancox to roam further forward when City look to attack.
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