POTENT poacher Peter Duffield hailed York City's stickability after the Minstermen kick-started the new season in less than convincing style with a 1-1 draw at Macclesfield Town.

Duffield, fighting fit after three leg breaks in the last two campaigns, was City's saviour, scoring deep into stoppage time to salvage a point for Terry Dolan's side.

The former Darlington hit man admitted City had not played well but had at least underlined their resilience.

He said: "We stuck at it, everyone gave 100 per cent and never let their heads drop - on that alone we got a point.

"We know we didn't play great. The fans let us know that.

"But it's the first game of the season and not many teams play well on the first day of the season.

"We have come away from a difficult place with a point. Last season we came away from here when we were on a fine run with a defeat.

"Hopefully, we can take that into Tuesday night against Shrewsbury.

"We have got a point and if we can get a win on Tuesday night that will be four points from two games which we will be delighted with."

Duffield conceded his goal was hardly spectacular - bundling home Stephen Brackstone's corner from two yards - but insisted he wouldn't have it any other way.

"Anyone can score from there but I'd rather score from there than from 25 yards because that is what I'm all about.

"It was just a reaction thing. I think one of their lads might have got a little touch on it.

"But we packed the box, which is something we have been working on a lot.

"It worked and it was reward for working on them quite hard in pre-season. It's paid off and that is down to the management."

After his prolonged spell on the sidelines, Duffield admitted he was anxious to make up for lost time.

"I'm enjoying football, I'm enjoying training and I'm enjoying life. I've been out for about two years and if you haven't got enthusiasm for the game after that length of time then there must be something wrong with you."

Updated: 11:49 Monday, August 12, 2002