YORK City fell to a miserable 3-1 defeat at the hands of Wealdstone on Saturday, despite a late consolation strike from defender Adam Crookes.

Here are five things we learnt from the Vanarama National League clash.

1. Attacking depth a concern

With Watford loanee Shaq Forde and club captain Lenell John-Lewis both absent in Saturday's defeat, it became abundantly clear how much City rely on the two.

Manny Duku and Ollie Tanner were instead trusted the lead the forward line, but neither really made an impact, with Duku wasting a few opportunities in the first half.

John-Lewis and Forde have proven instrumental in how City tactically operate, with the 'Shop''s physical contributions adding nicely to Forde's composure in front of goal.

But if this situation is to arise again, should there be concerns that there isn't enough attacking quality to spearhead the attacking frontline?

2. Losing the midfield battle

Using three central midfielders is often enough to take possession of a match, as long as the trio have enough quality about them.

But on Saturday, that certainly wasn't the case with Wealdstone dominating the match at times.

City seem to prefer a kick and hope tactic from defence and skipping the midfield out, which just isn't a bright alternative when Duku had little support up front.

Dan Pybus is a brilliant holding midfielder, so why skip out a clever passer of the ball who could operate as an architect from midfield and play more of a possession build-up rather than rush any potential attack?

3. Mazy Maz is back

The only real positive from Saturday's match was the return of fan favourite Maziar Kouhyar.

Having been introduced in the 75th minute, Kouhyar didn't provide too much of a cameo other than picking up a booking in an altercation with Micah Obiero.

But Saturday was about easing Kouhyar back in and expectations should be managed on that. He is a brilliant player but supporters and staff will have to be patient before Kouhyar begins to influence this City team like he did prior to his abductor injury.

4. Applause to the supporters

It's difficult right now at York for supporters to back a club which is in a rapid decline.

Mikey Morton addressed the issue in his post-match reaction to the match, and applauded the fans for their incredible turnout to the capital in what ended up being a miserable afternoon.

But credit has to go to these York fans, who have never stopped backing the team despite results being unacceptable and performances being massively below par.

5. Where now?

As we just said, it's not a good time to be a York supporter.

With the club in turmoil in ownership, management and results wise, that relegation zone seems to inch closer with every match that goes by.

Just three points separate City and the drop zone, and after working so hard to gain promotion last season it would be a massive shame if it were to be undone by incompetence from above.

York certainly need to figure a clear short-term plan other than hoping what they have now will be enough, with just two league wins in 18 matches, it's pretty clear that it isn't.