CALLUM HOWE praised the York City group after his late strike earned the Minstermen a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Maidenhead United.

Howe was proud of how the York squad responded to Alex Woodyard’s red card in the 20th minute, with City being forced to play the majority of the game with ten men.

But after Howe’s 87th minute strike to level the scoreline, York left Berkshire with a point after a gritty performance, something the City defender was pleased with after a demanding week.

“It wasn’t pretty but I think it was important that we showed a bit of character today and dug in for it,” Howe told club media.

“Last week hurt us but I think it’s been a pretty positive week because we’ve all stuck together this week and we’ve shown that we can stick together as a group and dig in when it matters.

“The game wasn’t really pretty for the first 10, 15 minutes before Woodsy (Alex Woodyard) got sent off.

“But especially after he got sent off, we knew we had to dig in and be hard to beat, we knew they were going to have a bit of pressure in a spell.

“I thought the lads dug in and everyone on there put in a good shift today.

“I like to chip in with a few goals so it’s nice to get another one, especially in front of the fans. It’s a nice feeling.”

Howe also talked on his relationship with first-team manager Neal Ardley, having also worked together at Solihull Moors, and looked ahead to City’s upcoming Emirates FA Cup second round clash with former winners Wigan Athletic to be played on Friday, December 1 (7.45pm).

“I know the gaffer well and I know he works, and I enjoy playing for him.

“Since he’s come in we’ve been solid, we’ve lost one in six or seven now.

“Obviously the one loss was poor and we all take full responsibility for that, the only way we could put that right was this week by sticking all together and show what we’re about

“It’s a big game for the club in front of the TV cameras, so it should be a good occasion for everyone. We’ll work hard this week and look forward to it.”