IN-FORM University of York Football Club’s first team marched into the semi-finals of the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) Northern Cup.

York beat Chester firsts 3-0 in a ruthless quarter-final display, opening the scoring after 15 minutes when Connor McCoy was on hand to head in a smart cross from the left flank. Chester responded well but were unable to convert any of their chances, due mainly to a strong performance from goalkeeper Luke Bradly, aided by the strong centre-back pairing of Tom Brandreth and Ollie Harrison. Around the half hour mark, James Davies escaped down the wing and managed to create an opening and get a stunning shot away into the top right corner from the edge of the penalty area. After the break, York kept possession superbly but could add only one more goal, with Davies adding a second after a pull-back from Josh Bew. York’s next match sees them take on the side rock-bottom in the league, knowing that victory will secure promotion. York and Durham’s brand new College Varsity competition will be staged tomorrow.

They will take on Durham’s college teams across eight disciplines: rugby, mixed hockey, men’s and women’s football, mixed volleyball, mixed badminton, women’s netball, and men’s basketball. The inaugural competition is intended to improve the quality of college sport at both universities and offer greater exposure, acting as a catalyst for college sport.