York City boss Billy McEwan is calling on his players to come back physically stronger for next season's Conference campaign.

Saturday's 1-1 draw at a Stevenage Borough side, reduced to nine men by the final whistle, ended the Minstermen's faint play-off hopes with one game left to play of their 2005/06 campaign.

It means only a home victory over second-placed Hereford United this weekend will see McEwan's side defeat any of the teams destined to finish in the top six positions this season.

And the City manager believes physical presence has been one of the crucial difference between his side and their play-off rivals this season.

He also feels his job in the future and the players's body development could be greatly assisted by the provision of modern gym equipment at KitKat Crescent.

McEwan said: "The big thing we need to learn from this game, which I have emphasised to the players, is you have to be physically strong at this level. Stevenage are and that's why they have been near the top of the Conference for years.

"We need it in our game next season because that's been the main difference. I also want to recruit a proper weight room for York City because the one we have got is as old as me, equipment wise.

"We need one to build the players up. We are fortunate to receive help from Fitness First and Living Well but we need one of our own because even though we have worked hard in that area this season we have got a long way to go yet."

City will be playing Northwich Victoria and Weymouth next season after they were promoted from Conference North and South respectively.

Updated: 10:26 Monday, April 24, 2006