:2008–09 York City F.C. season

File:Mark Greaves 1.png was appointed club captain after signing from Burton Albion.]]

{{main|2007–08 York City F.C. season}}

{{see also|History of York City F.C.|List of York City F.C. seasons}}

Billy McEwan was dismissed as manager of York City early into the 2007–08 season, with the team 19th in the Conference Premier table and having recently been beaten by Conference South team Havant & Waterlooville in the FA Cup.{{cite news |first=Steve |last=Carroll |title=York City sack Billy McEwan |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/1842841.York_City_sack_Billy_McEwan/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=19 November 2007 |access-date=12 January 2011 |archive-date=14 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120314055338/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/1842841.york_city_sack_billy_mcewan/ |url-status=live }} After a six-match unbeaten run as caretaker manager, Colin Walker was appointed as York's permanent manager{{cite news |first=Tony |last=Kelly |title=Colin bags City job |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/1927455.Colin_bags_City_job/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=26 December 2007 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=20 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151120171215/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/1927455.Colin_bags_City_job/ |url-status=live }} and led the team to a 14th-place finish in the table.{{cite web |title=York City 2007–2008: Table: Final table |url=http://www.statto.com/football/teams/york-city/2007-2008/table |publisher=Statto Organisation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151023151455/http://www.statto.com/football/teams/york-city/2007-2008/table |archive-date=23 October 2015 |url-status=dead}} York released Darren Craddock, Stuart Elliott, Tom Evans, Ross Greenwood, Anthony Lloyd, Manny Panther and Alex Rhodes after the season ended,{{cite news |first=Steve |last=Carroll |title=City boss releases trio |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2222531.City_boss_releases_trio/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=24 April 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=21 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151021010944/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2222531.City_boss_releases_trio/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Panther packed off |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2228032.panther_packed_off/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=26 April 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=28 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150928045304/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2228032.Panther_packed_off/ |url-status=live }} while Nicky Wroe and Martyn Woolford left for Torquay United and Scunthorpe United respectively.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Midfield ace exits Minstermen |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2302547.Midfield_ace_exits_Minstermen/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=28 May 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=27 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151027173701/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2302547.Midfield_ace_exits_Minstermen/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Woolford signs for Scunthorpe |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3582336.Woolford_signs_for_Scunthorpe/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=8 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304123443/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3582336.Woolford_signs_for_Scunthorpe/ |url-status=live }}

Jimmy Beadle, Richard Brodie, Craig Farrell, Josh Mimms, Daniel Parslow, Ben Purkiss, Mark Robinson and Onome Sodje signed new contracts ahead of 2008–09.{{cite news |first=Steve |last=Carroll |title=Faz signs fresh Minstermen deal |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2238644.Faz_signs_fresh_Minstermen_deal/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=1 May 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=24 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160124174918/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2238644.Faz_signs_fresh_Minstermen_deal/ |url-status=live }} York signed seven players before the season started; they were goalkeepers Michael Ingham from Hereford United{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Delighted City boss Walker seals first summer signings |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2269948.Delighted_City_boss_Walker_seals_first_summer_signings/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=14 May 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304204332/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2269948.delighted_city_boss_walker_seals_first_summer_signings/ |url-status=live }} and Artur Krysiak on a one-month loan from Birmingham City,{{cite news |title=Keeper Krysiak joins York on loan |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7547521.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=7 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061407/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7547521.stm |url-status=live }} defender Mark Greaves from Burton Albion, midfielders Niall Henderson from Raith Rovers,{{cite news |first=Steve |last=Carroll |title=City step up highland fling |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2351668.City_step_up_highland_fling/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=19 June 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060711/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2351668.City_step_up_highland_fling/ |url-status=live }} Steven Hogg from Gretna and Ben Wilkinson from Hull City,{{cite news |first=Tony |last=Kelly |title=Midfield versatility of new signings cheers City manager |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2333196.Midfield_versatility_of_new_signings_cheers_City_manager/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=11 June 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=20 March 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170320211237/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2333196.Midfield_versatility_of_new_signings_cheers_City_manager/ |url-status=live }} and striker Daniel McBreen from St Johnstone.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Mac's back as City chief Colin lands big Aussie target-man |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2363971.Mac___s_back_as_City_chief_Colin_lands_big_Aussie_target_man/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=26 June 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060231/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/2363971.Mac___s_back_as_City_chief_Colin_lands_big_Aussie_target_man/ |url-status=live }} Professional contracts were handed to three youth-team players, those being defenders Andy McWilliams and Josh Radcliffe and winger Liam Shepherd.{{cite news |title=Youth team players sign for York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7386495.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=7 May 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061340/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7386495.stm |url-status=live }} Greaves was named as York's club captain for the season.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Brown stakes claim to be a full-time Minsterman |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3197703.Brown_stakes_claim_to_be_a_full_time_Minsterman/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=8 July 2008 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=5 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305013047/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3197703.Brown_stakes_claim_to_be_a_full_time_Minsterman/ |url-status=live }}

New home and away kits were introduced for the first time in two years.{{cite web |title=York City |url=http://www.historicalkits.co.uk/York_City/York_City.htm |website=Historical Football Kits |publisher=Dave Moor |access-date=25 June 2017 |archive-date=25 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170625213036/http://www.historicalkits.co.uk/York_City/York_City.htm |url-status=live }} The home kit comprised red and navy blue halved shirts with red collars, navy blue shorts and navy blue socks with two white strips on the cuffs. The away kit included white shirts with black shoulders, white shorts and white socks with black cuffs.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Crawley Town 0, York City 1 |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3584914.Crawley_Town_0__York_City_1/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=11 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015}} Last season's third kit was retained, which featured light blue shirts with a maroon collar, bar a section under the neck which was light blue, and maroon trims on the sleeves, maroon shorts and light blue socks.{{cite news |title=Blue (and maroon) is the colour! |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/1586946.Blue__and_maroon__is_the_colour_/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=1 August 2007 |access-date=27 October 2015 |archive-date=22 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151022202904/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/1586946.Blue__and_maroon__is_the_colour_/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Torquay 1, York City 1 |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3630957.Torquay_1__York_City_1/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=29 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=24 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160124174920/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3630957.Torquay_1__York_City_1/ |url-status=live }} CLP Industries continued as shirt sponsors for the fourth successive season.{{cite news |title=Complete package |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/7971088.Complete_package/ |newspaper=Evening Press |location=York |date=21 July 2005 |access-date=27 October 2015 |archive-date=22 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151022203804/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/7971088.Complete_package/ |url-status=live }}

{{notelist}}

File:Onome Sodje 1.png's goal against Torquay United won him the Conference Premier Goal of the Month competition.]]

York's season started with a 1–0 victory away to Crawley Town, Farrell scoring the winner 19 minutes from time.{{cite news |title=Crawley 0–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7541005.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=9 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061542/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7541005.stm |url-status=live }} The second match was a 1–0 home win over Wrexham, who had won their opening fixture 5–0 against Stevenage Borough, with Greaves scoring the winner.{{cite news |title=York 1–0 Wrexham |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7551099.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=14 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060348/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7551099.stm |url-status=live }} Krysiak suffered a dislocated finger during this match, which resulted in him returning to Birmingham prematurely from his loan spell,{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Victorious City boss pays tribute to stand-in 'keeper |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3596656.Victorious_City_boss_pays_tribute_to_stand_in____keeper/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=15 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=5 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305010725/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3596656.Victorious_City_boss_pays_tribute_to_stand_in____keeper/ |url-status=live }} and was replaced by Mimms, who gave an assured performance.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City 1, Wrexham 0 |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3596287.York_City_1__Wrexham_0/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=15 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813055851/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3596287.York_City_1__Wrexham_0/ |url-status=live }} York's winning start to the season ended after a 1–1 home draw with Histon, who took the lead through a Daniel Wright penalty kick in the first half, before McBreen scored the equaliser for York on 69 minutes.{{cite news |title=York 1–1 Histon |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7551114.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=16 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=11 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911015634/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7551114.stm |url-status=live }}

Winger Simon Russell signed for the club from Kidderminster Harriers.{{cite news |title=City land Harriers winger |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3616541.City_land_Harriers_winger/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=22 August 2008 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=5 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305012942/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3616541.City_land_Harriers_winger/ |url-status=live }} York drew 2–2 away to Northwich Victoria, which saw the team fight back on two occasions after twice being a goal down, with Brodie scoring his first goal of the season.{{cite news |title=Northwich 2–2 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7565221.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=23 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813112831/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7565221.stm |url-status=live }} He then scored in the third minute against Barrow, who equalised seven minutes later through Lee Hunt, in a home match that finished a 1–1 home draw.{{cite news |title=York 1–1 Barrow |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7565352.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=25 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813111425/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7565352.stm |url-status=live }} Beadle was loaned out to Northern Premier League Premier Division club Whitby Town for a month, having not made any appearances in 2008–09.{{cite news |title=Beadle joins Whitby Town on loan |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7584837.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=27 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110724/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7584837.stm |url-status=live }} Sodje scored with a late volley after coming off the bench to give York a 1–1 draw away to Torquay United to maintain the team's unbeaten record, which looked under threat after Danny Stevens gave Torquay the lead on 65 minutes.{{cite news |title=Torquay 1–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7578293.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=28 August 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=6 September 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080906214900/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7578293.stm |url-status=live }} Sodje's goal against Torquay won the first Conference Premier Goal of the Month competition, for August 2008.{{cite news |title=York's Sodje wins best goal award |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7611283.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=11 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015}}

Grimsby Town midfielder Peter Bore joined on an initial one-month loan on transfer deadline day.{{cite news |title=York City snap up Mariners winger |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7592904.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=1 September 2008 |access-date=23 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110747/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7592904.stm |url-status=live }} York drew for the fifth time in succession with a 1–1 home draw with Mansfield Town, in which Sodje scored after he latched onto Adie Moses' misplaced header.{{cite news |title=York 1–1 Mansfield |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7588302.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=2 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813111610/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7588302.stm |url-status=live }} The team's first victory in six matches came in a 2–0 home win over Woking; the goals came from McBreen and a Danny Bunce own goal.{{cite news |title=York 2–0 Woking |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7588777.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=6 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813112248/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7588777.stm |url-status=live }} A 4–2 defeat away to Kettering Town saw York's unbeaten run come to an end after nine matches, leaving their opponents as the only unbeaten team in the division.{{cite news |title=Kettering 4–2 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7602209.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=13 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813112321/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7602209.stm |url-status=live }} Former Accrington Stanley striker David Brown, former Rotherham United defender Tom Hirst and Ipswich Town midfielder Jai Reason joined the club on trial.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Minstermen run rule over triallist pair |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3676668.Minstermen_run_rule_over_triallist_pair/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=16 September 2008 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813110640/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3676668.Minstermen_run_rule_over_triallist_pair/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Tom's big deal |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3687362.Tom___s_big_deal/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=19 September 2008 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110738/https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3687362.toms-big-deal/ |url-status=live }} After impressing in a reserve-team match, Hirst was signed by the club.{{cite news |title=Hirst signs deal with York City |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7623642.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=19 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110722/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7623642.stm |url-status=live }} However, Brown and Reason were not offered contracts.

An 86th-minute equaliser from McBreen gave York a 1–1 draw at home to Salisbury City,{{cite news |title=York 1–1 Salisbury |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7614155.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=20 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110714/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7614155.stm |url-status=live }} which maintained the team's unbeaten record at Bootham Crescent. Parslow signed a new contract with the club,{{cite news |title=City defender pens new deal |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3693001.City_defender_pens_new_deal/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=22 September 2008 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110733/https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3693001.city-defender-pens-new-deal/ |url-status=live }} and Rotherham midfielder Peter Holmes joined on a one-month loan.{{cite news |title=City land Millers midfielder |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3694113.City_land_Millers_midfielder/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=22 September 2008 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110736/https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3694113.city-land-millers-midfielder/ |url-status=live }} A second defeat of the season came after losing 2–0 away to Kidderminster, Brian Smikle and Justin Richards scoring for the home team.{{cite news |title=Kidderminster 2–0 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7626797.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=23 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110713/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7626797.stm |url-status=live }} Beadle was released by the club towards the end of his loan spell at Whitby, due to him looking for regular first-team football.{{cite news |title=York agree to let Beadle leave |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7635960.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=25 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110728/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7635960.stm |url-status=live }} This was followed by the departure of Bore, who returned to Grimsby from his loan spell early.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Early exit as Mariners loan winger fails to impress |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3708546.Early_exit_as_Mariners_loan_winger_fails_to_impress/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=27 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110738/https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3708546.early-exit-as-mariners-loan-winger-fails-to-impress/ |url-status=live }} A 3–3 draw away against Stevenage was achieved after the team were 2–0 down after 19 minutes, with the York goals coming from Sodje, Holmes and Farrell.{{cite news |title=Stevenage 3–3 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7637289.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=28 September 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015}} Sodje picked up a hamstring injury during this match, meaning he would be out of action for four to six weeks.{{cite news |title=York lose Sodje for several weeks |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7646858.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=1 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=5 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081005052734/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7646858.stm |url-status=live }}

Despite having the better chances, York drew 0–0 at home with Cambridge United,{{cite news |title=York 0–0 Cambridge |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7639437.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=4 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110715/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7639437.stm |url-status=live }} before being beaten 3–1 away by Wrexham, in which Wilkinson scored a late consolation goal.{{cite news |title=Wrexham 3–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7646274.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=7 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110715/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7646274.stm |url-status=live }} The club made an attempt to re-sign former striker Clayton Donaldson on loan from Crewe Alexandra, but were told to make an inquiry four weeks later, due to him being injured.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Injury spikes return of goal ace Clayton |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3745414.Injury_spikes_return_of_goal_ace_Clayton/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=10 October 2008 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=11 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011064206/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3745414.Injury_spikes_return_of_goal_ace_Clayton/ |url-status=live }} York's first double of the season came with a 2–0 away win over Woking, the goals coming from Wilkinson and McBreen.{{cite news |title=Woking 0–2 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7647063.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=11 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813111858/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7647063.stm |url-status=live }} Iyseden Christie's loan spell at Kettering from Stevenage was to be terminated for a loan move to York to go ahead, but this deal fell through.{{cite news |title=Christie switch fails to get green light |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3758403.Christie_switch_fails_to_get_green_light/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=15 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813110701/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3758403.Christie_switch_fails_to_get_green_light/ |url-status=live }} Walker revealed he was interested in signing striker Bruce Dyer, shortly after he played against York's reserve team for Bradford City.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Walker ponders turning to know-how of veteran front-man |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3766274.Walker_ponders_turning_to_know_how_of_veteran_front_man/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=17 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813110623/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3766274.Walker_ponders_turning_to_know_how_of_veteran_front_man/ |url-status=live }}

York achieved a consecutive victory for the first time in 2008–09 after beating Rushden & Diamonds 2–0 at home, with goals from Robinson and Farrell.{{cite news |title=York 2–0 Rushden & Diamonds |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7665159.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=19 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813113216/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7665159.stm |url-status=live }} After this match, Holmes was recalled by Rotherham. Brodie was loaned to fellow Conference Premier club Barrow for one month, having lost his place in the starting line-up.{{cite news |title=Bring on the Minsterman |url=http://www.nwemail.co.uk/BRING-ON-THE-MINSTERMAN-65850fd5-da13-43d0-92d6-02ab4b8405b5-ds |newspaper=North-West Evening Mail |location=Barrow-in-Furness |date=23 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722042929/http://www.nwemail.co.uk/BRING-ON-THE-MINSTERMAN-65850fd5-da13-43d0-92d6-02ab4b8405b5-ds |archive-date=22 July 2015 |url-status=dead}} Former Leeds United midfielder Gavin Rothery impressed for the reserve team against Hartlepool United, after which he signed a short-term contract with the club.{{cite news |title=York sign up midfielder Rothery |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7689288.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=24 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813112129/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7689288.stm |url-status=live }} A 0–0 home draw with Mansfield in the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup resulted in a replay, which would be played at Field Mill.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City 0, Mansfield 0 (FAC4Q) |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3793566.York_City_0__Mansfield_0__FAC4Q_/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=27 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=6 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306031946/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3793566.York_City_0__Mansfield_0__FAC4Q_/ |url-status=live }} Radcliffe was sent out on loan for a month at Harrogate Railway Athletic of the Northern Premier League Division One North.{{cite news |title=City ace on standby for England |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3794615.City_ace_on_standby_for_England/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=27 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015}} York were eliminated from the FA Cup after a 1–0 defeat away to Mansfield.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Mansfield 1, York City 0 |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3800445.Mansfield_1__York_City_0/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=29 October 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=6 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306031624/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3800445.Mansfield_1__York_City_0/ |url-status=live }}

File:Martin Foyle 06-09-2015 1.jpg was appointed manager following Colin Walker's dismissal.]]

An 87th-minute penalty scored by Yemi Odubade saw York lose 1–0 away to Oxford United.{{cite news |title=Oxford Utd 1–0 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7686257.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=1 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110715/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7686257.stm |url-status=live }} Dyer signed for the club, having been unattached after his release by Chesterfield at the end of 2007–08.{{cite news |title=Minstermen bring in veteran Dyer |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7706425.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=3 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061013/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7706425.stm |url-status=live }} Adam Boyes signed a long-term professional contract{{cite news |title=Boyes commits future to York City |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7711355.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=5 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015}} ahead of York's Conference League Cup third round tie against Mansfield, which was won with a 4–2 penalty shoot-out victory.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Setanta Shield: York City 1, Mansfield Town 1 (4–2 on pens) |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3819171.Setanta_Shield__York_City_1__Mansfield_Town_1__4_2_on_pens_/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=5 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925093400/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3819171.Setanta_Shield__York_City_1__Mansfield_Town_1__4_2_on_pens_/ |url-status=live }} This was preceded by Greaves' headed goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time, earning the team a 1–1 draw, which was followed by a goalless period of extra time. The attendance of 609 was the lowest crowd in the club history—breaking the previous record of 763 set in the 2007–08 Conference League Cup.{{cite book |first=David |last=Batters |title=York City: The Complete Record |year=2008 |publisher=Breedon Books |location=Derby |isbn=978-1-85983-633-0 |pages=258–410}}

York lost 2–1 at home to Torquay, in their first home defeat of the season. After Roscoe Dsane gave the visitors the lead, Greaves equalised for York with a header from a Purkiss cross in the 85th minute, before Mark Ellis scored for Torquay on 90 minutes.{{cite news |title=York 1–2 Torquay |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7713971.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=15 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061553/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7713971.stm |url-status=live }} A third successive defeat came after losing 1–0 away to Cambridge.{{cite news |title=Cambridge Utd 1–0 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7726998.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=18 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061224/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7726998.stm |url-status=live }} It was agreed that Brodie's loan at Barrow would be extended after he scored four goals in six appearances,{{cite news |title=Bayliss praises 'clinical' Barrow |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/barrow/7736977.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=19 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061231/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/barrow/7736977.stm |url-status=live }} but York decided to overturn this decision a day later.{{cite news |title=Barrow set to suffer Brodie blow |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/barrow/7739039.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=20 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061439/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/barrow/7739039.stm |url-status=live }} Barrow hoped to open talks over signing him on a permanent contract in January 2009.

Walker was dismissed as manager, alongside head coach Eric Winstanley, with youth-team coach Neil Redfearn taking over as caretaker manager.{{cite news |title=Manager Walker leaves York City |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7742556.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=21 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060440/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7742556.stm |url-status=live }} He took charge of the team for the home match against Crawley, which finished a 2–2 draw after Lewis Killeen scored the rebound from a Thomas Pinault penalty in the 90th minute.{{cite news |title=York 2–2 Crawley |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7727656.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=23 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110715/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7727656.stm |url-status=live }} Former Port Vale manager Martin Foyle was appointed as manager,{{cite news |title=Martin Foyle lands York City manager's job |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/3872016.Martin_Foyle_lands_York_City_manager___s_job/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=24 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=26 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150926114421/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/3872016.Martin_Foyle_lands_York_City_manager___s_job/ |url-status=live }} with Redfearn taking the role of assistant manager.{{cite news |title=Neil Redfearn appointed York City assistant manager |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3872789.Neil_Redfearn_appointed_York_City_assistant_manager/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=24 November 2008 |access-date=12 January 2011 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110756/https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3872789.neil-redfearn-appointed-york-city-assistant-manager/ |url-status=live }} Foyle made his first signing by bringing in winger Adam Smith on loan from Conference North club Gainsborough Trinity.{{cite news |title=York City land late loan signing |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3933680.York_City_land_late_loan_signing/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=28 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110822/https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3933680.york-city-land-late-loan-signing/ |url-status=live }} Foyle's first match in charge was a 1–1 away draw against Salisbury City, which was earned following a Brodie goal in the 83rd minute.{{cite news |title=Salisbury 1–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7742194.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=29 November 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060821/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7742194.stm |url-status=live }}

A 1–0 home defeat by Grays Athletic through a Wes Thomas goal followed; this was Grays' first away victory of the season.{{cite news |title=York 0–1 Grays |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7752591.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=6 December 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060901/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7752591.stm |url-status=live }} York followed this with a 1–1 draw away to Histon, in which they took the lead through Brodie in the 14th minute, before Parslow scored an own goal on 59 minutes.{{cite news |title=Histon 1–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7763401.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=9 December 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060546/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7763401.stm |url-status=live }} North Ferriby United striker Steve Torpey was appointed as youth-team coach to succeed Redfearn.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City appoint Steve Torpey as youth-team coach |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3977817.York_City_appoint_Steve_Torpey_as_youth_team_coach/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=15 December 2008 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=28 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160128175448/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3977817.York_City_appoint_Steve_Torpey_as_youth_team_coach/ |url-status=live }} Foyle's first win as manager came in a 2–0 away victory over Northwich Victoria in the FA Trophy first round, both goals coming from Brodie.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Northwich 0, York City 2 – FA Trophy |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3983248.Northwich_0__York_City_2___FA_Trophy/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=17 December 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=7 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307033846/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/3983248.Northwich_0__York_City_2___FA_Trophy/ |url-status=live }} This was followed with a 3–1 home win over Ebbsfleet United, with goals from Adam Smith, Brodie and Sodje after being one goal down.{{cite news |title=York 3–1 Ebbsfleet |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7779499.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=20 December 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061236/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7779499.stm |url-status=live }} Dyer retired from football, having only made three appearances for York through back and hamstring injuries, while Rothery was released.{{cite news |title=York's Dyer announces retirement |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7798219.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=23 December 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061431/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7798219.stm |url-status=live }} York's two-match winning run ended after a 2–1 defeat away to league-leaders Burton Albion, which was secured after Greaves scored an own goal.{{cite news |title=Burton 2–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7790525.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=26 December 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061321/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7790525.stm |url-status=live }} A 2–1 home defeat by Altrincham followed; Brodie scored a free kick in the 32nd minute to give York the lead, before Chris Senior and Dale Johnson scored for the visitors in the second half.{{cite news |title=York 1–2 Altrincham |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7792255.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=28 December 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110834/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7792255.stm |url-status=live }} Redfearn left the club to take charge of the Leeds under-18 team and Andy Porter, a former teammate of Foyle at Port Vale, was appointed as assistant manager.{{cite news |title=Porter named as assistant at York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7805187.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=30 December 2008 |access-date=28 October 2015}}

File:Levi Mackin 09-05-2009 1.jpg joined on loan from Wrexham.]]

The New Year began with a second defeat of the season to Burton, this time being beaten 3–1 at home, in which Brodie scored in the first half with a shot from the edge of the penalty area.{{cite news |title=York 1–3 Burton |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7803213.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=1 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=31 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081231230703/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7803213.stm |url-status=live }} Wrexham defender Kyle Critchell was signed on a one-month loan, who Foyle knew while he was a coach at the club.{{cite news |title=York sign Critchell from Wrexham |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7812132.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=5 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061449/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7812132.stm |url-status=live }} Adam Smith returned to Gainsborough following the conclusion of his loan, while a permanent move had been stalled as Gainsborough were holding out for a fee.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=City face £6k bill as Weymouth clash is frozen out |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4025770.City_face___6k_bill_as_Weymouth_clash_is_frozen_out/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=7 January 2009 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=11 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011064340/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4025770.City_face___6k_bill_as_Weymouth_clash_is_frozen_out/ |url-status=live }} Progression to the third round of the FA Trophy was ensured with a 2–1 away victory over Oxford, with goals from McBreen and Brodie.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City strikers McBreen and Brodie on target to seal impressive FA Trophy win at Oxford |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4045709.Oxford_United_1__York_City_2/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=14 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925070342/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4045709.Oxford_United_1__York_City_2/ |url-status=live }} Further signings from Wrexham took place when striker Simon Brown and midfielder Christian Smith signed on loan and permanently respectively.{{cite news |title=Minstermen complete double swoop n |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7831038.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=15 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061327/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7831038.stm |url-status=live }} Hirst was released having failed to break into the first team.{{cite news |title=York City release full-back Tom Hirst |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4053223.York_City_release_full_back_Tom_Hirst/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=16 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=6 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306152433/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4053223.York_City_release_full_back_Tom_Hirst/ |url-status=live }} Lewes were beaten 3–0 at home; Brodie opened the scoring with a volley into the top corner from outside the penalty area, and Christian Smith scored from 30 yards before Brodie finished the scoring with a low shot into the bottom corner.{{cite news |title=York 3–0 Lewes |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7816363.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=17 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015}} Henderson was released having fallen out of the reckoning for a first-team place.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Niall Henderson's heading for a KitKat Crescent exit |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4060258.Niall_Henderson___s_heading_for_a_KitKat_Crescent_exit/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=20 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060608/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4060258.Niall_Henderson___s_heading_for_a_KitKat_Crescent_exit/ |url-status=live }}

York were knocked out of the Conference League Cup following a 3–1 away defeat by Barrow in the Northern section fourth round.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Curse of Barrow goal ace Wayne Curtis see York City slide out of Setanta Shield |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4063484.Barrow_3__York_City_1___Setanta_Shield/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=21 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110754/https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/yorkcityfc/matchreports/4063484.curse-of-barrow-goal-ace-wayne-curtis-see-york-city-slide-out-of-setanta-shield/ |url-status=live }} Midfielder Levi Mackin was signed on loan from Wrexham until the end of the season.{{cite news |title=York sign fourth Wrexham player |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7844710.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=22 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110809/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7844710.stm |url-status=live }} He debuted in York's 2–1 away defeat to Eastbourne Borough, in which Christian Smith scored a header from Brown's cross.{{cite news |title=Eastbourne 2–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7844365.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=24 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110807/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7844365.stm |url-status=live }} Adam Smith rejoined York from Gainsborough on a permanent contract for an undisclosed fee.{{cite news |title=York City sign winger Adam Smith |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4076928.York_City_sign_winger_Adam_Smith/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=26 January 2009 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=11 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011064451/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4076928.York_City_sign_winger_Adam_Smith/ |url-status=live }} His return came as a substitute in York's 1–1 draw away to Altrincham, in which Brodie scored the equalising goal after Shaun Densmore put the home team in the lead.{{cite news |title=Altrincham 1–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7847955.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=27 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110817/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7847955.stm |url-status=live }} Farrell was loaned out to Oxford for the remainder of the season, as he sought more game time.{{cite news |title=Oxford sign York striker Farrell |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/o/oxford_utd/7861742.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=31 January 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110808/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/o/oxford_utd/7861742.stm |url-status=live }} York drew 1–1 away with Kidderminster in the FA Trophy third round, in which Boyes scored his first goal for York, meaning a replay was to be played.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Teenage striker Adam Boyes nets his first York City goal to earn an FA Trophy replay against Kidderminster Harriers |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4093420.Kidderminster_1__York_City_1___FA_Trophy_3/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=2 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110754/https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/yorkcityfc/matchreports/4093420.teenage-striker-adam-boyes-nets-his-first-york-city-goal-to-earn-an-fa-trophy-replay-against-kidderminster-harriers/ |url-status=live }}

Critchell's loan at York was extended for a second month, with the fitness of several York defenders in doubt.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City right-back Ben Purkiss fighting for chance to make England 'C' debut against Malta |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4099225.York_City_right_back_Ben_Purkiss_fighting_for_chance_to_make_England____C____debut_against_Malta/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=4 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060828/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4099225.York_City_right_back_Ben_Purkiss_fighting_for_chance_to_make_England____C____debut_against_Malta/ |url-status=live }} York were beaten 1–0 away by Mansfield, courtesy of a Robert Duffy penalty, in the teams' fourth encounter of the season.{{cite news |title=Mansfield 1–0 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7867805.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=7 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110840/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7867805.stm |url-status=live }} A 13–12 penalty shoot-out victory over Kidderminster followed a 1–1 extra time draw in an FA Trophy replay; in normal time, McBreen scored a header from a corner delivered by Simon Rusk before the away team equalised shortly after through Justin Richards.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City 1, Kidderminster 1 (13–12 on penalties after extra time) |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4120194.York_City_1__Kidderminster_1__13_12_on_penaties_after_extra_time_/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=12 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=6 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306032545/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4120194.York_City_1__Kidderminster_1__13_12_on_penaties_after_extra_time_/ |url-status=live }} A new record for the most consecutive penalties scored in a shoot-out was set, at 25.{{cite news |first=Tony |last=Kelly |title=Salute for 649 York City fans who witnessed history in the making during record penalty shoot-out against Kidderminster Harriers |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4126841.Salute_for_649_York_City_fans_who_witnessed_history_in_the_making_during_record_penalty_shoot_out_against_Kidderminster_Harriers/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=14 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110820/https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/other/tko/4126841.salute-for-649-york-city-fans-who-witnessed-history-in-the-making-during-record-penalty-shoot-out-against-kidderminster-harriers/ |url-status=live }} McBreen was reported to have signed for North Queensland Fury of the A-League,{{cite news |title=McBreen joins Fury from UK |url=http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/96608,mcbreen-joins-fury-from-uk.aspx |magazine=FourFourTwo |date=17 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120318203336/http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/96608%2Cmcbreen-joins-fury-from-uk.aspx |archive-date=18 March 2012 |url-status=dead}} although the transfer had yet to be confirmed by York.{{cite news |first=Steve |last=Carroll |title=Confusion as York City striker Daniel McBreen 'signs' for North Queensland Fury |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4134869.Confusion_as_York_City_striker_Daniel_McBreen____signs____for_North_Queensland_Fury/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=18 February 2009 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=14 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150614153641/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4134869.Confusion_as_York_City_striker_Daniel_McBreen____signs____for_North_Queensland_Fury/ |url-status=live }} It was confirmed that he would join the Fury for the start of 2009–10 in August 2009.{{cite news |title=McBreen agrees move to Australia |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7897595.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=19 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061257/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7897595.stm |url-status=live }} Former Wrexham defender Shaun Pejic signed after a successful trial at the club.{{cite news |title=York City sign up defender Pejic |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7901502.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=20 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061209/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/y/york_city/7901502.stm |url-status=live }} York beat Conference South team Havant & Waterlooville 2–0 at home in the fourth round of the FA Trophy to secure a place in the semi-final, with both goals scored by McBreen.{{cite news |first=Steve |last=Carroll |title=Daniel McBreen's double strike ignites York City's Wembley dream in the FA Trophy |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4146804.York_City_2__Havant___Waterlooville_0/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=23 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060857/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4146804.York_City_2__Havant___Waterlooville_0/ |url-status=live }} This was followed by a 2–0 away defeat to Rushden in the league.{{cite news |title=Rushden & D 2–0 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7900009.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=24 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015}} York's first league victory in a month was a 2–0 home win over Weymouth, who were forced to play a weakened team due to their financial situation, and Brodie scored headers in each half.{{cite news |title=York 2–0 Weymouth |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7905841.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=28 February 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015}}

Ingham made several important saves as York drew 0–0 away to Ebbsfleet.{{cite news |title=Ebbsfleet 0–0 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7923990.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=8 March 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110842/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7923990.stm |url-status=live }} The first leg of the FA Trophy semi-final tie against AFC Telford United ended in a 2–0 away win, with goals in each half from Rusk and Purkiss.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Prospect of a Wembley outing in the FA Trophy final provides a welcome fillip for York City |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4205248.Telford_United_0__York_City_2___FA_Trophy_Semi_1/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=16 March 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=6 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306031513/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4205248.Telford_United_0__York_City_2___FA_Trophy_Semi_1/ |url-status=live }} A late goal from Sodje with a shot from the edge of the penalty area earned the team a 1–1 draw away to Forest Green Rovers, after Kaid Mohamed had given the home team a first-half lead.{{cite news |title=Forest Green 1–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7935576.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=17 March 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061546/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7935576.stm |url-status=live }} A 2–1 home win over Telford in the second leg of the FA Trophy semi-final, with goals in each half from Brodie and McBreen, saw York progress into 2009 FA Trophy Final at Wembley Stadium with 4–1 aggregate victory.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Wembley here we come... York City beat Telford United to book a place in the FA Trophy final |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4225002.York_City_2__Telford_United_1___FA_Trophy_Semi_2/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=23 March 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060915/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4225002.York_City_2__Telford_United_1___FA_Trophy_Semi_2/ |url-status=live }} This was followed by a 0–0 home draw with Kettering in the league.{{cite news |title=York 0–0 Kettering |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7948883.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=24 March 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110815/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7948883.stm |url-status=live }} Wilkinson joined divisional rivals Altrincham on loan until the end of the season, having failed to feature in the team since January 2009.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Manager Martin Foyle warns York City they must do it for themelves |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4239799.Manager_Martin_Foyle_warns_York_City_they_must_do_it_for_themelves/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=27 March 2009 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=11 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011192929/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4239799.Manager_Martin_Foyle_warns_York_City_they_must_do_it_for_themelves/ |url-status=live }} York drew 0–0 with play-off contenders Kidderminster at home,{{cite news |title=York 0–0 Kidderminster |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7948980.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=28 March 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060941/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7948980.stm |url-status=live }} which was followed by a 2–0 home defeat to Stevenage.{{cite news |title=York 0–2 Stevenage |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7971968.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=31 March 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110817/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7971968.stm |url-status=live }}

File:Danny Parslow 2017-08-28 1.jpg was voted Clubman of the Year.]]

York dropped into the relegation zone after a 1–0 away defeat to Grays, who themselves moved out of the relegation zone and above York,{{cite news |title=Grays 1–0 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7976521.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=4 April 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110846/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7976521.stm |url-status=live }} and this was followed with a 0–0 home draw with Oxford.{{cite news |title=York 0–0 Oxford Utd |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7978726.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=7 April 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110850/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7978726.stm |url-status=live }} They were beaten 2–1 at home by Northwich; Jonny Allan gave the visitors the lead in the first half and Robinson equalised with a penalty on 68 minutes, before Allan scored a stoppage-time winner for Northwich.{{cite news |title=York 1–2 Northwich |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7982051.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=11 April 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110850/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7982051.stm |url-status=live }} This was followed by a 0–0 draw away to fellow strugglers Barrow.{{cite news |title=Barrow 0–0 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7982058.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=13 April 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110856/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7982058.stm |url-status=live }} Before York's penultimate home match against Eastbourne, Parslow was named the 2008–09 Clubman of the Year, voted for by the club's supporters.{{cite web |title=Clubman of the Year |url=https://www.yorkcityfootballclub.co.uk/clubman-year |publisher=York City F.C. |access-date=18 September 2017 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110831/https://www.yorkcityfootballclub.co.uk/clubman-year |url-status=live }} A 1–0 victory saw York move out of the relegation zone, in what was their first league win in 10 matches. It was achieved after McBreen scored from a Purkiss pass in the 35th minute.{{cite news |title=York 1–0 Eastbourne |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/7989716.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=18 April 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110900/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/7989716.stm |url-status=live }} A second successive win came at home to Forest Green, who York beat 2–1 with second-half goals from Boyes and Brodie.{{cite news |title=York 2–1 Forest Green |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8002667.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=21 April 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015}}

A 2–1 away victory over Weymouth saw York secure survival from relegation, with their opponents facing relegation as a result.{{cite news |title=Weymouth 1–2 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8002677.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=24 April 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125110900/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/8002677.stm |url-status=live }} Brodie gave York a 14th-minute lead, and after Cliff Akurang equalised for Weymouth late in the first half, Boyes scored the winning goal 13 minutes from time. York's last league match was a 1–1 away draw with bottom placed Lewes, Greaves scoring on 80 minutes before the home team equalised three minutes from time.{{cite news |title=Lewes 1–1 York |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8002697.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=26 April 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061216/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8002697.stm |url-status=live }} This result saw them finish the season 17th the table. York were defeated 2–0 by Stevenage in the 2009 FA Trophy Final at Wembley, who scored with second-half goals from Steve Morison and Lee Boylan.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Stevenage 2 York City 0 – FA Trophy Final from Wembley |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/4357937.York_City_0___Stevenage_Borough__2___FA_Trophy_final_at_Wembley/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=9 May 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=26 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150926042517/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/4357937.York_City_0___Stevenage_Borough__2___FA_Trophy_final_at_Wembley/ |url-status=live }}

York were in a midtable position for most of the season, and were as high as fifth in August 2008, while dropping as low as 22nd in April 2009. Their goalscoring record of 47 goals scored was the fifth lowest in the division; whereas, their defensive record of 51 goals conceded was better than that of the champions Burton. Parslow made the highest number of appearances during the season, appearing in 57 of York's 58 matches.{{cite book |editor1-first=Tony |editor1-last=Williams |editor2-first=James |editor2-last=Wright |title=Non-League Club Directory 2010 |year=2009 |publisher=Tony Williams Publications |isbn=978-1-869833-66-4 |pages=162–163}} Brodie was York's top scorer in the league and in all competitions, with 15 league goals and 19 in total. McBreen was the only other player to reach double figures, with 10 goals.

After the season ended, York released Greaves, Hogg, McBreen, Pejic, Radcliffe, Robinson, Rusk, Shepherd, Christian Smith and Wilkinson.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Ben Purkiss signs new York City deal |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4426265.Ben_Purkiss_signs_new_York_City_deal/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=9 June 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304115935/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4426265.Ben_Purkiss_signs_new_York_City_deal/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City boss Martin Foyle swings the axe at KitKat Crescent |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4359507.York_City_boss_Martin_Foyle_swings_the_axe_at_KitKat_Crescent/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=12 May 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=6 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306031444/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4359507.York_City_boss_Martin_Foyle_swings_the_axe_at_KitKat_Crescent/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City manager Martin Foyle expects to complete summer shopping by the end of the week |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4453485.YORK_City_manager_Martin_Foyle_expects_to_complete_summer_shopping_by_the_end_of_the_week/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=23 June 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060440/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4453485.YORK_City_manager_Martin_Foyle_expects_to_complete_summer_shopping_by_the_end_of_the_week/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City part company with Ben Wilkinson |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4471871.York_City_part_company_with_Ben_Wilkinson/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=2 July 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=20 March 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170320211852/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4471871.York_City_part_company_with_Ben_Wilkinson/ |url-status=live }} Boyes, Farrell, Darren Kelly and Sodje left for Scunthorpe, Rushden, Portadown and Barnsley respectively.{{cite news |title=York City striker Adam Boyes seals move to Scunthorpe United |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4487369.York_City_striker_Adam_Boyes_seals_move_to_Scunthorpe_United/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=10 July 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303175805/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4487369.York_City_striker_Adam_Boyes_seals_move_to_Scunthorpe_United/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City sign striker Michael Rankine |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4435367.York_City_sign_striker_Michael_Rankine/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=12 June 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060905/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4435367.York_City_sign_striker_Michael_Rankine/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Ports make double transfer swoop |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/irish/8044812.stm |website=BBC Sport |date=11 May 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813061149/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/irish/8044812.stm |url-status=live }}{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City striker Onome Sodje signs for Barnsley |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4439146.York_City_striker_Onome_Sodje_signs_for_Barnsley/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=15 June 2009 |access-date=17 March 2012 |archive-date=12 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012000541/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4439146.York_City_striker_Onome_Sodje_signs_for_Barnsley/ |url-status=live }} Brodie, McWilliams, Mimms and Purkiss signed new contracts with the club.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City manager Martin Foyle lands two new signings – Craig Nelthorpe and Andy Ferrell |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4380320.York_City_boss_Martin_Foyle_swoops_to_sign_winger_Craig_Nelthorpe_and_midfielder_Andy_Ferrell/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=20 May 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060508/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4380320.York_City_boss_Martin_Foyle_swoops_to_sign_winger_Craig_Nelthorpe_and_midfielder_Andy_Ferrell/ |url-status=live }} Over the summer York signed defenders James Meredith from Shrewsbury Town,{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=York City boss Martin Foyle lands three new signings |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4389029.York_City_boss_Martin_Foyle_lands_three_new_signings/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=22 May 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813060703/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4389029.York_City_boss_Martin_Foyle_lands_three_new_signings/ |url-status=live }} Alan O'Hare from Mansfield{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Minstermen turn to Mansfield Town centre-back Alan O'Hare as new defensive recruit |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4466914.York_City_boss_Martin_Foyle_acts_swiftly_to_get_new_defender_Alan_O___Hare_on_board/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=1 July 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=6 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306031816/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4466914.York_City_boss_Martin_Foyle_acts_swiftly_to_get_new_defender_Alan_O___Hare_on_board/ |url-status=live }} and Djoumin Sangaré from Salisbury,{{cite web |url=https://www.soccerbase.com/players/player.sd?player_id=44595 |title=Djouman Sangare |website=Soccerbase |publisher=Centurycomm |access-date=18 March 2021}} midfielders Neil Barrett from Ebbsfleet,{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Striker Michael Gash still keen to join York City |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4468275.Michael_Gash_still_keen_to_join_York_City/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=1 July 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015}} Andy Ferrell from Kidderminster, Alex Lawless from Forest Green,{{cite news |title=Minstermen sign utility player Alex Lawless |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4443076.York_City_s_newest_signing/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=17 June 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015 |archive-date=15 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915144213/http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4443076.York_City_s_newest_signing/ |url-status=live }} Mackin from Wrexham, winger Craig Nelthorpe from Oxford, and strikers Michael Gash from Ebbsfleet,{{cite news |title=York City finally land Ebbsfleet United striker Michael Gash |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4512221.York_City_finally_land_Ebbsfleet_United_striker_Michael_Gash/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=24 July 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015}} Richard Pacquette from Maidenhead United and Michael Rankine from Rushden. Striker Michael Emmerson was promoted from the youth team after he signed a professional contract with the club.{{cite news |first=Dave |last=Flett |title=Teenage striker signs new York City deal |url=http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/4434979.Teenage_striker_signs_new_York_City_deal/ |newspaper=The Press |location=York |date=12 June 2009 |access-date=28 October 2015}}

{{main|2008–09 Football Conference#Conference Premier}}

{{main|2008–09 FA Cup}}

{{main|2008–09 FA Trophy}}

{{main|2008–09 Conference League Cup}}

:{{dagger}} Brackets around club names denote the player's contract with that club had expired before he joined York.

:{{dagger}} Brackets around club names denote the player joined that club after his York contract expired.

{{notelist}}

:Source:{{cite web |title=York City |url=http://www.footballsquads.co.uk/eng/2008-2009/confprem/york.htm |website=FootballSquads |access-date=28 October 2015}}{{cite web |url=https://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?season_id=145&team_id=2910&teamTabs=stats&season_id=138 |title=York: Squad details: 2008/09 |website=Soccerbase |publisher=Centurycomm |access-date=18 March 2021}} Positions and discipline records accessed via individual player pages.

:Numbers in parentheses denote appearances as substitute.

:Players with names struck through and marked {{dagger|alt=Left club during playing season}} left the club during the playing season.

:Players with names in italics and marked * were on loan from another club for the whole of their season with York.

:Players listed with no appearances have been in the matchday squad but only as unused substitutes.

:Key to positions: GK – Goalkeeper; DF – Defender; MF – Midfielder; FW – Forward

• List of York City F.C. seasons

{{reflist}}

{{York City F.C. seasons}}

{{2008–09 in English football}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:York City F.C. Season 2008-09}}

2008-09

Category:2008–09 Football Conference by team

Foot