The Knights have lost their opening two Northern Rail Cup games this season against Gateshead and Featherstone.

Ratcliffe told BBC Radio York: "We will improve and we'll become what York fans desire and that's a successful side.

"If we keep learning by our mistakes and work hard and we try and correct those mistakes, then you can't ask any more of a player."

Ratcliffe says the players have good motivation and enthusiasm to carry on trying to put things right.

After some promising performances in pre-season, the Knights have been disappointing in their opening Cup matches.

It's hurting the players and they're working hard to put it right York City Knights assistant coach James Ratcliffe

"It's not turning up at training and doing an hour here and there, it's a lot of hard work from the players. They're in it for the long road. As a group of people, there's not one that's not hurting," says Ratcliffe.

The Knights squad this season is made up of many players that have stepped up a level in rugby league, and Ratcliffe admits they are on a learning curve.