MINSTERMEN ARE ACADEMY ACES

YORK CITY were crowned National League Academy cup final winners after they defeated Woking at St George’s Park.

Kieran Clayton was the difference as his second-half header was enough to earn York the win at England’s training centre in Staffordshire.

York dominated the opening exchanges in bright sunshine with Jacob McLoughlin and George Harrison linking up to cause problems down the right. However, despite posing a threat, York didn`t capitalise on their dominance and failed to render a shot on goal.

With attacking midfielder, Felix Ezewulla, becoming more involved, Woking rallied with Alife Burton cutting the ball back to Ben Mitchell, who dragged his shot wide. Minutes later, York responded when Alex Hernandez created space for a shot, but it was a routine save for Woking goalkeeper, Owen Crawford.

Woking’s best chance of the half fell just before half-time when the ball fell kindly for Ben Mitchell on the left side of the box, but he could not keep his half volley down.

York City started the second half stronger with York City number 10, Kieron Clayton, beavering away and he had a chance from a corner, seven minutes into the half. It wasn’t long before the Minstermen broke the deadlock after 67 minutes.

George Harrison floated a delightful cross into the box and Kieran Clayton headed home from close range.

Later, York manager, Dan Wilson, pointed out how headers had made up a lot of their goals this season, but arguably this was the most vital of them all.

York remained on top and had the better chances. It took a fingertip save from Crawford to deny Jonny Shepard from doubling doubled the lead.

Woking had a late penalty shout, but it was too little too late. After the full-time whistle sounded, Woking’s Felix Ezekwulla received a red card for questioning the referee’s decision.

A delighted Wilson said: “There was pressure on the game and that showed in the performance. When you look at the goals conceded, defensively we’re really hard to beat.”