A YOUNG York City reserves team produced a polished performance last night as they overcame Darlington 4-1 at Bootham Crescent in an Avon Insurance League Cup tie.

Nick Richardson and Alex Mathie were the only City players to feature with vast first team experience, but still the Minstermen proved too strong for a Quakers side featuring the likes of Phil Brumwell, Neil Wainwright and Clint Marcelle.

Luke Ibbetson handed City a deserved 1-0 half-time lead when he nudged home Mathie's cross just before the break.

The second-year trainee added a second on 56 minutes after a sweeping City move before two goals in four minutes from Aidan O'Kane put the result beyond doubt.

Paul Campbell pulled a goal back for the Quakers on 67 minutes but it was too little too late.

In further good news for City, striker Scott Emmerson came on as a second-half substitute in his first appearance since suffering a shin injury three weeks ago.

A weakened Harrogate Town side lost 3-1 to Bradford Park Avenue in a UniBond League Cup pool match. Ex-York City marksman Ian Blackstone headed Town in front, but a penalty scored just before half-time gave the hosts the initiative.

Updated: 11:53 Thursday, September 27, 2001