Ron Saunders, Aston Villa’s new manager, was as convinced as his players that the 82nd minute ‘goal’ Chris Nicholl headed into the back of York City’s net should have given them a victorious start to the season.

Nicholl connected with Ray Graydon’s left-wing corner as cleanly as a new pin, but Manchester referee, Gordon Trevett, disallowed the attempt, ruling that Sammy Morgan had impeded centre-half Barry Swallow.

Saunders said afterwards: “I don’t normally dispute decisions, but Morgan and Swallow were nowhere near the ball when Nicholl headed It home. It looked a good goal to me.”

If Trevett had allowed the goal it would have been no more than Villa deserved. They were in a different class to newly-promoted York, playing their first match in the Second Division, and should have won by two clear goals.

York, quite frankly, can prepare for a hard survival slog over the next eight months.

After their initial 20-minute burst with Barry Lyons scoring a good eighth minute goal from a free kick they were always struggling.

Only the daring and anticipation of goalkeeper Graeme Crawford saved them from defeat.

But he was given no chance when Graydon headed the 29th minute equaliser after a clever chipped cross from Chico Hamilton had flat-footed the defence.

Before and after this goal Crawford made remarkable saves from Graydon and he had luck on his side when a Brian Little header hit the underside of the bar before the danger was cleared.

It was difficult to judge Villa’s prospects on this workmanlike display, mainly because the eager opposition they faced was barely up to Second Division standards.

A better Indication may be available after they have met Hull tomorrow.

There must still be a question mark hovering over the attack, however, which once again failed to convert the numerous chances that came their way throughout the contest.

A promotion-hunting side needs to score goals - and plenty of them - to take the pressure off other departments.

Sadly, there was little swamping an inferior defence.

No one doubts Morgan’s honest heart or endeavour. But I frequently get the impression that his co-strikers in this case Little and Hamilton just do not understand how to work with him