YORK City manager Gary Mills hailed his team’s best performance of the season after Jamal Fyfield’s stoppage-time winner secured an exhilarating 3-2 victory at Grimsby.

In a performance that will have restored faith in the team following the boos that greeted Saturday’s 1-0 FA Trophy semi-final win over nine-man Luton, the Minstermen created a host of chances and led 2-0 courtesy of Jamie Reed and Chris Smith goals.

But Anthony Elding and Michael Coulson headers looked to have stolen an undeserved point for the outclassed Mariners before Fyfield struck from the edge of the penalty box.

A proud Mills said: “I can honestly say that’s the best we’ve played this season and we’ve played well in quite a few games. All that is good about us was there – the movement, winning second balls and defending well.

“It would have been an absolute travesty to have gone home without three points because we had chance after chance. We should have been five up by half-time but the hardest thing in the world is putting the ball in the back of the net.”

Applauding a great team performance, Mills also praised recalled winger Matty Blair, Reed, converted midfielder James Meredith and match-winner Fyfield.

Mills said: “Matty Blair was back to his best. I asked him afterwards where he’s been because, when he plays like that, he frightens people with his pace, endeavour and heart.

“Reedy was excellent and what a performance by James Meredith in midfield. His energy levels were unbelievable. He won second balls and squeezed play.

“Then, I’m looking at my left-back, who cost us their first goal, but he’s gone and got the winning goal by being on his front foot and hitting a great strike.

“I’m pleased for him.”