TEN years ago, York City's visit to Joseph Rowntree School was a signal of bright times to come - and how the Mintermen would love to see history repeat itself.

In 1992, then boss John Ward took his squad along to play a staff side as part of the golden jubilee at the Haxby Road school. A 5-0 success was just the start of a memorable campaign for City as they went on to beat Crewe in the promotion play-off finals at Wembley.

Yesterday, a decade on from that first term-time encounter, City returned to the playing field to face the 'JoRovers' side - this time to mark the school's diamond jubilee.

The 9-1 result was almost as predictable as the last meeting, with Peter Duffield (2), Craig Wilding (2), Stuart Wise, Chris Brass, Alex Mathie (2) and Graham Potter all scoring. But City fans will be hoping this season will follow the same path to glory.

The plucky staff side from Rowntree did pull a goal back when player-boss Mike Wilson sent John Collinson the wrong way from the spot, just minutes after the City 'keeper had saved Steven Boyle's penalty attempt.

But it took a number of superb saves from Geoff Hatch, particularly during the second half, to prevent a cricket score.

The City players also endeared themselves to the pupils by taking time out to speak to them and sign autographs, with Chris Smith a particular favourite.

Updated: 11:44 Wednesday, July 17, 2002