This month, our resident sports writer and York City F. C. fan, Simon Pattinson, has enjoyed the pre-season success.
It’s been an intriguing start to life in the new LNER Community Stadium for York City. As I write this, the Minstermen have had a brilliant pre-season: unbeaten and building up nicely. But the one overwhelming factor of this is that, once again, nothing has been straightforward for getting the season up and running. I’m talking about issues with tickets and having the correct certification in place for full capacity ahead of the season opener against Kidderminster. There have been various teething problems throughout the months leading towards the season and, for whatever reason, this has no doubt caused the club to miss out on the much-needed revenue we need going forward. Not only that, but once again it has added to a long list of questions about the relationship between the club and the fans.
Looking more at what is going on on the pitch, the season ahead should be promising. A strong side with a great all-round forward line that will not only get goals but allow Watson to change the system and get the goals necessary to finally get out of the National League North. The addition of Mark Beck is certainly an excellent signing if he can remain fit as he joins until January from Harrogate. Looking at performances in pre-season, I think Mackenzie Heaney could be a masterstroke from the manager as he looks to be a great talent who will chip in with a few goals and assists along the way.
One area I still worry about is the depth in defence, but I certainly believe Sam Fielding, another new recruit for this season, looks very comfortable at centre back or in midfield. I do hope (when we need it) that as well as Beck, Steve Watson looks more to the loan market to freshen the side up during the season. I know it’s not been the best two years for football, but it always feels there has been a slight reluctance to use as much as other sides around us as Kings Lynn did in the season they were promoted on the PPG ruling as that could be the fine margins for this year.
Who will be promoted this year? I have to say AFC Fylde look very strong, and whoever finishes above them this season will no doubt be at the top of the table. I hope it’s us, but you know how this league works: it’s just so unpredictable. Another threat for this year would be Boston, picking up some great results in pre-season, most notably the 5-0 thrashing of Lincoln City being one. They will be a tough nut to crack for sure, and others to mention are Brackley and Spennymoor, two teams, who since being in the division, have always challenged every time – but the playoffs are certainly anyone’s from anyone in this league.
There’s a long season ahead. I think everyone will agree that fans being back and being able to complete the season will be the main winners for most who love the beautiful game.
Add a comment