Football is not just for the boys say York City - despite comments made by manager Billy McEwan suggesting otherwise.

McEwan yesterday blasted Sunday football saying: "Saturdays are for the women to go shopping and for the men to go to the pub and watch football."

But York City director Sophie McGill, who is regularly part of the 33 per cent female contingent among City crowds, said: "We are a club with tremendous female support and the women who attend games are equally as passionate and knowledgeable about the team as our male supporters.

"Speaking from experience, watching York City has always been a huge part of my life since I was a child and it is how I choose to spend my weekends."

She added: "As a supporter-owned club we are very committed to encouraging the next generation of supporters to KitKat Crescent and the high presence of female fans helps to create the welcoming, family atmosphere we strive for."

Updated: 09:40 Tuesday, February 14, 2006