CITY of York Hockey Club's under-14 girls finished fourth in the Yorkshire round of the English Cup.

The team faced an uphill battle having only amassed a squad of 13 - and were then drawn in a tough group with Ben Rhydding, Thirsk and Harrogate.

Ben Rhydding were City's first opponents, holding them to a frustrating 0-0 draw.

City next came up against Thirsk, whose two goals inside the first five minutes saw them through 2-1 as winners after City's sluggish start.

Once York got going, a flowing move in front of goal ended with Emma MacKay slotting home.

Tasha Collins' effort at the death slid inches wide.

The final group game saw City held to another 0-0 stalemate by an obstinate Harrogate, but the girls still progressed to the semi-finals on goal difference.

City here met Wakefield, who emerged 3-0 winners, a scoreline restricted by some excellent saves from keeper Annie Emmott.

Captain Poppy Courtis got City's passing game going and inspired chances, but they were unable to capitalise.

In the third-place play-off, City lost 4-0 to group rivals Thirsk, with all the goals again coming before the break.

City improved greatly in the second half as they passed the ball around well, while Emmott was again the star performer.