THE remaining spot in the York FA Sunday Senior Cup Final was decided when cup specialists Hounds beat Severus SC 3-0 in a keenly fought contest at Bishopthorpe, writes Bob Grainger.

The first period was even although Severus had the most chances, but stout defending by the Hounds' defence kept them at bay.

Hounds took the lead in the 23rd minute in their first real attack when referee Tony Harteveld allowed advantage on the Hounds' right and Andy Cygan crossed for Richard Gladwell to sidefoot home.

Hounds now took complete control and Cygan was unlucky when he lobbed the Severus 'keeper only to see the ball cleared off the line.

Hounds were in ascendancy in the early part of the second half and Cygan went close yet again following a flowing move.

Severus were stirred into action and Ronnie Robinson's 30-yard shot went close with the Hounds' 'keeper Simon Acaster well beaten. Then Gary Kitson had a goal-bound header palmed wide by Acaster.

Hounds' looked dangerous on the break and Severus had a great chance to level the score but Mark Woodward missed an open goal. But with two minutes remaining Alan Jackson broke down the Hounds' right wing and put in a perfectly weighted pass for Cygan to score.

In the final minute an unfortunate own goal by Garry Londsborough made the final scoreline 3-0 to Hounds with a place in the final against Acomb WMC.

Updated: 11:35 Wednesday, April 03, 2002