CITY of York Hockey Club Men I began their Yorkshire and North East League premier division season with a 2-0 defeat at Harrogate II.

The first half was an even but goalless affair, with York creating chances but being thwarted by the Harrogate goalkeeper and numerous defensive saves on the goal-line.

The second half started in a similar fashion to the first, but Harrogate were able to take their chances, taking an ultimately unassailable 2-0 lead.

York kept pushing to get on the scoresheet but found no rewards for their efforts.

Meanwhile, City of York III lost a seven-goal thriller 4-3 at Leeds IV.

After Leeds took an early lead from a short corner, Russell Bowry slotted in from a flowing move down the right flank for York.

Leeds turned in another short corner prior to half time before Callum Willis volleyed in an equaliser.

The hosts scored twice more to pull 4-2 clear, with Peter Bennett's strike proving a mere consolation.

City of York IV lost 1-0 at home to Leeds V while IX's home clash with Harrogate V was cancelled due to the latter withdrawing from the League.

Elsewhere, City of York Ladies III were edged out 3-2 at home to Selby I.

Selby led 1-0 heading into the second half before York levelled matters through Emily Eaton's reactive finish.

The visitors scored restored their lead with a couple of quick-fire strikes and while Kelly Hunter hit back in the dying stages, Selby hung on for the points.

Meanwhile, City of York IV lost 2-0 at Pickering I.

City of York VI played out a 2-2 draw with North Yorkshire rivals Tadcaster Magnets II.

Jenny Shaw and Lydia Waters were on target for York.