YORK City conceded a last-minute equaliser as they drew 3-3 away to fellow Vanarama National League North play-off rivals Southport. Here are five things that we learnt from the game.

1. Strong feeling of two points dropped

While an away draw against a fellow top seven club may not appear to be a disappointing conclusion, the manner of the result felt like a bitter pill to swallow.

York created the best of the game's chances and held the lead with only stoppage time remaining, conceding through a ball into the box, Southport's renowned method of attack.

While City may well eventually overtake Port into sixth, it felt like a missed opportunity to do so sooner.

2. Plenty of character shown by City

With that said, York showed plenty of heart and character to twice come from behind to earn a point.

Earlier in the season, City had a strong tendency to fold when going behind, particularly early on, but this group appear a much more battle-hardened bunch and capable of overturning deficits.

While their defending can be questioned it is hard to say the same of their application.

3. Terrible conditions hamper contest

It can often sound like excuse-making when managers discuss the pitch or weather conditions pre-match. But interim manager John Askey was spot on when highlighting the gale force West Coach wind.

Combined with the patchy field, neither side were able to play any attractive football or keep the ball for sustained spells.

Despite seeing six goals go in, the entire 90 minutes itself were a tough watch for long periods.

4. Strong options on the bench at last

Askey has consistently spoken of the need to recruit players. While the central aim was to improve the starting 11, similarly important was the need to bolster the options from the bench.

At Southport, Askey finally had plenty to choose from, with Sam Sanders, Remy Longdon and Michael Woods all unused substitutes.

The one used sub, Jack McKay, had an immediate impact, scoring with his first touch and summarising how strong City's squad now looks.

5. York should not fear play-off contenders

While York and Southport could ultimately not be separated, City were the dominant side for large periods with Port giving few signs that they could genuinely challenge for promotion, despite sitting sixth.

It was a reminder that the fellow top seven rivals are conquerable, something which seemed highly unlikely not long ago.

Above Southport, Chorley and Kidderminster have won just twice from their last 10 matches combined while AFC Fylde lost to City earlier this month.

Despite the gap in points between themselves and others, York should enter the play-offs, if they get there, confident of going all the way.