York City solidified their place in the National League play-off semi-finals with a comfortable victory over Solihull Moors at the LNER Community Stadium. Referee Michael Barlow officiated the match, which saw York demonstrate their dominance, scoring early and late to secure all three points.
The Minstermen started strongly, taking the lead in the 3rd minute through Cameron John, who was assisted by Malachi Fagan-Walcott. Solihull struggled to respond, and their difficulties were compounded in the 24th minute when Joe Felix received a yellow card for a foul.
In an attempt to inject impetus into his side, Solihull manager Matty Taylor made an early substitution in the 38th minute, replacing Joe Newton with Bradley Stevenson. However, the tactical change failed to have an immediate impact, and further changes were made at half-time, with Fletcher Holman replacing Joseph Dodoo.
The second half saw Solihull pushing for an equaliser, but they lacked the cutting edge to break down a resolute York defence. Bradley Stevenson’s yellow card in the 57th minute highlighted their growing frustration. York manager Adam Hinshelwood responded in the 63rd minute with a triple substitution, introducing Junior Luamba, Josh Stones, and Daniel Batty for Lewis Richardson, Fagan-Walcott, and Felix, respectively. Stones’ introduction would later prove pivotal.
Further substitutions followed, with both teams looking to influence the match. Solihull brought on Joss Labadie, Szhem Whyte-Hall, and Manny Duku, while York introduced Dipo Akinyemi and Lenell John-Lewis. Akinyemi, who was brought on in the 73rd minute, sealed the victory for York in the 90th minute, assisted by Josh Stones.
The 2-0 scoreline reflected York’s superiority on the day. While previous head-to-head encounters have been closely contested, with Solihull having a slight edge in wins, this match belonged firmly to York.
The victory sees York City maintain their strong position in the league, where they are assured a play-off semi-final place, boasting an impressive 93 points from 45 games. Solihull Moors, meanwhile, remain in mid-table, with 57 points, their play-off ambitions no longer a possibility.