SKIPPER Chris Brass is adamant success not survival will be York City's goal next season, writes Dave Stanford.

The dust may still be settling on the tumultuous campaign just gone, but already a hungry Brass is looking to the future.

After agonisingly missing out on a play-off place at the death, the City captain reckons the Minstermen will go one better next time around.

And with the threat of extinction over Bootham Crescent now lifted, Brass believes City should have the stable platform necessary for success.

"For all the problems encountered, we have continued to progress over the last couple of season," he reasoned.

"Every season we have moved up something like four places and if we can continue making that sort of improvement next season we will be certainly there or thereabouts.

"There is a nucleus of a very good young team here at York City and we can only get better with experience.

"Last season, the fact York City survived was our first priority but now we want success."

Brass was speaking after collecting his latest end of season gong, the Evening Press player of the year award.

The ex-Burnley skipper has also been crowned player of the year by the Harrogate Minstermen supporters' club branch.

On Sunday, Brass will also receive the prestigious Clubman of the Year award, the Billy Fenton Memorial Trophy, at the clubs' end of season party at Ikon & Diva.

"It is always nice to have your efforts recognised and it is always an honour to receive awards," said Brass.

"But it's been a real team effort this year and the whole squad deserves praise."

Updated: 11:28 Friday, May 16, 2003