MARCUS PALMER’S second goal in three Blue Square Premier appearances for Forest Green was no more than a consolation as they fell to defeat at York City.

With Forest Green’s status in the non-league’s top tier already secured, York moved to within a point of safety with this victory.

Adam Boyes scored from close range and Richard Brodie fired in from the edge of the area in four second half minutes to put City in control.

Hartpury College student Palmer pulled a goal back in the dying minutes but City managed to hang on to the three points.

York: Ingham, Purkiss, McGurk, Parslow, Pejic, Mackin, Adam Smith (Brown 90), Christian Smith, McBreen (Sodje 71), Brodie, Boyes.

Subs Not Used: Robinson, Greaves, Torpey.

Goals: Boyes 59, Brodie 63.

Forest Green: Burton, Smith, Preece, Jones, Casey (Else 67), Lloyd, Lawless (Baldwin 35), Fowler (Palmer 78), Platt, Rigoglioso, Mangan.

Subs Not Used: Robinson, Ayres.

Goals: Palmer 89.

Att: 2,164 Ref: M Naylor (Sheffield).