THE York City board's never-say-die attitude has secured an improbable victory. And sports enthusiasts across the city can enjoy the trophy: a purpose-built 10,000-seat stadium.

We salute the tenacity of club managing director Jason McGill and his fellow directors. Their request for funds from the Football Foundation was knocked back four times. Each time they refined and resubmitted their bid.

Even when a loan was agreed, there was to be a final, agonising twist. City's plummet out of the Football League nearly cost them everything. Only an 11th-hour financial report persuaded the foundation to part with £2 million.

Meanwhile, prolonged negotiations with all the major parties, including former chairman Douglas Craig and builders Persimmon, were needed to finalise the deal.

Today's announcement should be enough to inspire the City faithful out of their Nationwide Conference gloom. It is emphatic confirmation that this board has the long-term future of the club at heart.

A year ago, the York City story could have come to an end. Now a new chapter has begun.

There is much more work to be done before it can reach a happy ending, of course. Finding a suitable site for the stadium will not be easy. Few want a football ground on their doorstep, and York City's potential new neighbours must be consulted from the off.

Most importantly, the team must start winning. Fans, now being asked to pay a comparatively high price for season tickets and shell out for yet another new shirt, merit much greater commitment on the pitch next season.

Simply put, the players must show the same level of graft, passion and single-mindedness in pursuit of victory as their board.

The future of York City is at their feet.

Updated: 10:22 Friday, June 11, 2004