City boss Mills hails Parslow’s fightback role (From York Press)

York City boss Gary Mills hails Dan Parslow’s fightback role

11:20am Wednesday 22nd August 2012 in Sport By Dave Flett, Sports reporter

York City’s Dan Parslow, far left, celebrates with Chris Smith after laying on the first equaliser for the skipper in last night’s 2-2 draw at Morecambe

YORK City manager Gary Mills revealed that utility man Dan Parslow has become the first name on his team-sheet after the former Wales under-21 international laid on both goals in last night’s 2-2 draw at Morecambe.

Parslow was also described as “one hell of a player” by Mills, who switched the former Cardiff City centre-half from right-back into an anchoring midfield role at the Globe Arena.

The Minstermen fell behind twice against the Shrimps with Bootham Crescent old boy Richard Brodie converting a penalty, conceded by Chris Doig, and Stewart Drummond also netting. But, in between, a far-post header by Parslow teed up Chris Smith for the first equaliser and the Welshman then used his right boot to deliver an excellent cross that Ashley Chambers converted at the second attempt on 86 minutes.

Delighted City boss Mills said: “I’ve got nothing but praise for Dan Parslow. As a player, since the first day I walked into the club, the difference in him has been immense.

“He’s always had heart and desire. He just needed to have a bit more belief in himself but we are certainly producing one hell of a player now.“He’s grasped how to play and has already played in three positions this season. Even in pre-season, he was my first name on the team sheet.”

Mills admitted the manner in which his side conceded both goals last night disappointed him but that he was thrilled to get the club’s first point back in the Football League.

He added: “I’m delighted for everybody connected with the club, particularly for the players, because it’s always important mentally to get your first point on the table. I was disappointed to concede two goals with another penalty and one from a set piece but, if we had been livelier in the first half, we might have had a couple more goals ourselves and I’m delighted that we have come back twice.

“That shows we have character and heart and it’s happened so many times over the last 12 months. I don’t want to keep coming back though because I think we are an even better side if we can get our noses in front.”

Mills gave Danny Blanchett his debut for City at left-back and was also pleased with the former Burton defender’s contribution, saying: “He had a steady game and did well.

“I did not see their winger cause him too many problems and the game will have done him good. He trained very well on Monday and that probably got him the shirt.

“That sends out a message to other players that might be out of the team because, if you get in my face with the way you train, that can get you back in the side.”