Harrogate were the last team to beat York in the league, in 2009

York struck an early blow in defence of their Yorkshire Premier League title with a 28-run win over Harrogate at Clifton Park to take six points.

York posted 223-3, Vic Craven responded with 101 for Harrogate who were left to hold on for a point at 195-9.

York skipper Marcus Wood told BBC Radio York: "We knew it would be a close game and spinners would play a big part."

Craven added: "Needing 60 runs from 10 overs and with wickets in hand, we should have done it from there really."

York skipper Wood admitted it was a good toss to win: "We knew putting runs on the board would put them under pressure."

Craven agreed that the toss was important but added: "We got into a good position to win it so we should have gone on from there, really."

Craven, who already has 180 runs to his credit this term, is satisfied with Harrogate's start to the season, with wins over Doncaster and Hull.

"As a rule we usually start quite badly, looking well but with a slip-up in the first two games, so it was nice to get the first two wins.

"York are a good side, especially at home, but we're really disappointed we didn't beat them."

York are seeking a record fifth league title in a row, but Wood is setting no targets following personnel changes during the winter.

"We just take it as it comes, start playing well with the batting and the bowling and keep the momentum flowing.

"It will depend on how well we gel together and how the first parts of the season go. The early signs are of a very tight season.

"We've got a few areas we must work on if we're going to be somewhere near with three-quarters of the season to go. That's when we'll look at things, when a picture has emerged."

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