The Youth Team travelled to Darlington in their most recent league match, looking for a win to propel back them towards the top of the league. They went about doing this in the correct way, with a very bright start to the match. York were playing some nice football and dominating the game, whilst creating some good chances. But after some good moves and a number of chances to score from open play, it was a set piece that created the first goal of the game. Charlie Binns whipped in a corner from the left, and without any defenders making contact with the ball, left back Tom Allan was on hand to volley in at the back post. York deserved to take the lead, and were looking comfortable and in control of the game. They continued to press and Tom Owen was inches away from converting a misdirected shot goal wards, and Allan forced a good save from the Darlington keeper with a thumping volley from outside the area. Moments later, after a mix up between the Darlington centre back and goalkeeper, Owen had a chance in behind, but opting to pass to a team mate was maybe the wrong option, and the defenders got back to clear. However shortly after, it was similar circumstances, which gifted Darlington an equaliser. A miss hit back pass was seized upon by the Darlington striker, and at the second time of trying after a good save from York keeper Ben White, he slotted the ball home. It was a very poor goal on York's behalf, and it meant Darlington went in to the break on level terms.

Darlington had more of the play in the second half, and the game was a lot more even, but York were creating the best chances, without really testing the opposition keeper. But once again almost out of nothing Darlington took the lead. A run and cross from the left winger saw the Darlington striker receive the ball inside the penalty area. Without any real pressure from the defence, he turned and shot. The ball evaded the dive of White, and nestled into the left hand side of the goal. York did not give up however, and continued to create chances. Reece Kelly was played through down the right, but dragged his shot wide and Owen could not direct his volley on target after a good cross from the left. However time eventually ran out on York, and they came away from a game they should probably have won, with nothing. Despite this, there were many positives to take from the game and although the result was not what we wanted, the performance will still give us confidence going into the next game.