Minstermen are warned to heed lessons from their past

A 13-point haul from the final five games was just enough to keep the Minstermen in the Football League.

Newly-appointed Nigel Worthington was the manager who inspired that stunning about-turn in form and tonight, as bottom club Torquay United head to Bootham Crescent, he is warning his players to be wary of a team fighting for their very survival.

He said: “It is at that time of year when teams near the bottom are fighting for their lives. This is the business end of the season.

“We know all about that from last season. We were right up against it but went on a run that got us out of trouble.

“It is the same every year. Just look how many points teams near the bottom get in the second half of a season compared to the first.

“Northampton Town and Torquay have both done well lately. They are both in the bottom two and know that time is running out.

“They can’t afford any mistakes and that usually shows in results. We have to be aware of that.”

Torquay are six points adrift of safety at the foot of League Two, three points behind nearest rivals Northampton.

Chris Wilder’s Cobblers side are also in action tonight, at home to AFC Wimbledon. With third-bottom Portsmouth facing two away games this week, the picture near the foot of the League could change dramatically by the end of the weekend.

Happily for York, their focus is on the other end of the division after Saturday’s win at Fratton Park nudged Worthington’s men into the play-off places for the first time this season.

The City chief, whose side are at home again this weekend against promotion-chasing Burton Albion, continued: “There is a good feeling among this group. They are all working very, very hard for each other and that is why our results have been good.

“The players are enjoying their football and that is great. I want them to enjoy each and every game. We want to gather as many points as possible, it is as simple as that. I am not going to set a target or say we are going to finish here or there.”

Worthington has signed striker Calvin Andrew on a deal until the end of the season. The 27-year-old was a free agent after leaving Mansfield in January.

Wes Fletcher and Josh Carson, injured in the weekend win at Portsmouth, will miss this week’s double-header as York look to cement their place in the top seven.

Last six games: York City DWWWWW, Torquay United LLWLWL.

Referee: E Ilderton (Tyne & Wear).

Last time: York City 0 Torquay United 2; November 24, 2012; League Two.