Adam Hinshelwood’s York City have surprised many so far this season to lead the National League after 16 matches.
City only survived relegation on the final day of last season with the ex-Worthing manager putting together a run of form late on to starve off the drop.
Having returned to his former club to sign Joe Felix and Ollie Pearce coupled with ex-Rebels Harrison Male and Ricky Aguiar in the summer, Hinshelwood has seemingly transformed the Minstermen into promotion candidates.
It’s a far cry from the ex-Brighton defender’s early days at the LNER Community Stadium where his appointment was questioned after his new side were soundly beaten 6-1 by Altrincham in March.
Saturday’s come from behind win at FC Halifax Town has reinforced the now steely resolve his side appear to possess. A goal behind until stoppage time beyond the 90 minutes, strikes from Malachi Fagan-Walcott and Pearce sent the Yorkshire outfit to the top of the table.
Hinshelwood has only tasted defeat once so far this season and York are currently on an eleven match unbeaten run including the scalp of title favourites Barnet a little under a week ago.
Expectations are now growing that the club are well positioned to make a return to the Football League they left back in 2016. Since that point it’s been far from plain sailing under a succession of different managers and club owners.
The 40 year old will no doubt be keen to temper that excitement knowing both Forest Green Rovers and Barnet at the very least will be wanting some say in the destination of the title.
Hinshelwood’s York are a very different proposition to the Worthing side he left behind. Known for playing expansive football which relied on fast fluid attacking play, the Minstermen are miserly defensively with only nine goals conceded, four less than their closest rivals.
While most York supporters were expecting a better year than last, there is no doubt they are looking to now last the distance. Another ex-Worthing player in Marvin Armstrong will be a key component to their finishing position, his energy and timing to arrive in the opposition penalty area is crucial.
York supporters appear to be remaining level headed over their promotion chances, happy to be in the mix rather than looking over their shoulders as has been the case in previous years.
A renowned non-league blogger and Barnet FC fan, Trevor covers National League divisions with expertise and passion.
