"THERE is still room for improvement," believes York City boss John Askey after he watched his side earn a convincing 1-0 win over Alfreton Town.

Paddy McLaughlin scored the only goal of a game which York were in near total control of, particularly in the first half, when the visitors barely had a look-in.

Moreover, the football on display was a marked improvement on a good portion of the season. City were bright on and off the ball, confident in quick passing play and they won plenty of second balls.

What York lacked were efforts on goal, Remy Longdon's long-range effort the only City shot on target in the first half.

"I was pleased with how we played, especially first half, because that's what we've got to do," Askey commented.

"I thought the final ball let us down at times but that's the one thing that was missing.

"I think, eventually, if we keep playing that way, we will score more goals.

"But I think we looked organised and knew what we were doing. It's just a shame we didn't score more goals.

"It was such a good goal," he continued of the flowing move that led to Mitch Hancox's cut-back to Paddy McLaughlin, who swept it into the bottom far corner.

"It's stuff we've worked on and it was a good finish by Paddy.

"I was pleased with how we played and pleased with the goal.

"But again, there's still room for improvement.

"The wind was strong and that's why we were dominant in the first half. Second half, we were playing against it."

Askey credits the improvement in play, in part, to the acquisition of Remy Longdon and Jack McKay, who both made a good impression against Alfreton.

They were replaced in the second half by Kurt Willoughby and Clayton Donaldson, with Longdon taking a knock and McKay having a touch of fatigue.

"We've got the two natural wingers now, which helps," Askey said. "They understand the position.

"Clayton and Kurt are willing runners but their natural positions are down the middle.

"Having two wide men, it helps."

Sam Fielding missed out due to Covid.