York City v Northampton Town: Jackie McNamara looking for further injection of confidence for Minstermen

The Scot’s first five games contrived to present a daunting schedule as York faced sides either chasing automatic promotion or the play-offs.

Not until taking on Morecambe on the final Saturday before Christmas – and a full six weeks into McNamara’s reign – were the Minstermen due to take on an opponent residing in their half of the table.

In terms of results, it proved just as tough as supporters feared with York slumping to five straight defeats against the promotion chasers, a run that took the club to the foot of League Two.

Finally, however, respite arrived last weekend with a 2-1 victory over Morecambe and McNamara believes that can provide the perfect fillip ahead of meeting another high-flier today in the form of Northampton Town.

“That first victory was a long time coming,” said McNamara.

“It has settled everyone down and now we can start chasing those teams above us. It will give us confidence.

“We won’t get carried away, but it does provide us with a platform.

“Northampton are going well. Last weekend was the first time I have played anyone in the bottom half and if we can do well against Northampton then it can give us an injection of confidence.”

In common with the rest of the league, York face a busy programme of three games in eight days with trips to Mansfield Town and Yeovil Town. After that, however, they have a blank fortnight due to Exeter City being in the FA Cup third round.