YORK Schoolboys Under-15s emerged with a 3-1 victory against Spen Valley in only their second league game of the season.

The visitors took an early lead when a dangerous corner was headed home, but York threatened when full-back Luke Wilkinson advanced, only thwarted by a last-ditch tackle.

Matty Mulhearn then went close with a fierce left-foot strike just wide of a post.

York got their leveller on the half-hour mark when Liam Neal’s pass found Mulhearn and, after an excellent cross, the ball was diverted in for an own goal.

York netted a deserved second early in the second half when Neal linked up with Joey McCormick, who beat three defenders and crossed for strike partner Ben Hirst to convert from close range.

Hirst should have increased York’s lead soon after, but had a low drive well saved when through one-on-one.

Mulhearn cleared a Spen Valley effort off the line as the away side pressed for an equaliser but, as the game stretched, York’s quality showed.

In the final minutes, McCormick went close but his right-foot effort flew narrowly over the bar.

The game was eventually made safe when winger Rob Cowley’s cross was met by Hirst for his second.

The team deserved their victory against a solid Spen side, with Mulhearn winning the man of the match award.

York travel to Middlesbrough for a rearranged league game today.