York City boss Martin Foyle has paid tribute to central defensive pair David McGurk and Luke Graham after his side recorded a ninth successive league victory at the weekend.

The duo helped to keep a fifth clean sheet in seven league games in a 1-0 triumph over Cambridge United at the Abbey Stadium, where midfielder Neil Barrett scored the winner with his third goal of the campaign early in the second-half.

“Dave McGurk and Luke Graham have built up a good partnership and understanding," Foyle told The Press.

"Cambridge threw the kitchen sink at us again, like they did in the FA Cup game, but we defended everything fantastically.”

Foyle believes this latest result is another significant step in the progression of his side into being major contenders for honours.

“We knew it would be a very hard game," he continued.

“Cambridge haven’t been getting the rub of the green so I told the players three points against them would put us on the way to what we are trying to achieve.

“They started very brightly and passed the ball well but, even though they had the lion’s share of possession, they didn’t really hurt us. We then put Neil Barrett on Paul Carden and managed to get a foothold in the game.”

And crucially, Barrett - who has also hit the target at Luton and Stoke this term - again found time to support his front-men as he took advantage of more good work from the selfless Michael Rankine three minutes after the interval.

“He has a bet on with Andy (Porter) and is getting nearer the number (of goals) he needs to win some money,” added Foyle.