MARTIN GRAY’S first game in charge of York City will always be remembered for Jon Parkin’s thunderous free-kick, a stunning statement of intent which was such a fitting way to usher in a new era.

The sense of euphoria which swept Bootham Crescent as the net bulged with the sheer ferocity of Parkin’s shot reminded me why I love York City – and always will.

We’ve had some terrible times recently, but the hard-core City fans who have remained faithful to their ailing team were rewarded on Saturday.

These are early days, of course, and it would be wrong to get carried away.

The frailties in City’s team – especially the lack of pace at the back and the absence of a midfield ball-winner and player – were exposed in the second half and Brackley maybe should have scored more than the one goal.

But they didn’t – and City got three precious points. I have no doubt they would have lost this game under Gary Mills.

Mills had to go. Despite that FA Trophy win at Wembley, Mills’ second term as City manager was a disaster. He should never have returned.

So far Martin Gray seems a different kind of manager entirely.

Yes, it’s early days. But for the first time in ages, I left Bootham Crescent with a spring in my step.

Okay, that might have just been because of the sheer quality of Jon Parkin’s goal.

But it might, just might, be because we have a managerial team who can lead us out of the doldrums. At last.

Robert Beaumont, Minskip, York