In a dramatic finale at Rochdale, York City’s Josh Stones netted a last-minute equaliser in stoppage time during their clash with National League title contenders. The result, a 1-1 draw, secured York’s return to the fourth tier of English football after a tense match filled with injury-time goals and pitch invasions.
Rochdale were chasing victory to snatch the title and gain automatic promotion back to League Two, and it appeared they had achieved their goal when Emmanuel Dieseruvwe scored with a header in the 95th minute. This prompted wild celebrations from the home fans, leading to a pitch invasion that delayed the match’s restart.
However, in an incredible twist, Stones found the net in the 103rd minute, capitalising on a frantic scramble in front of the goal as York pushed 10 players forward in a last-ditch effort.
Overjoyed York supporters erupted in chants of “We are going up!”
The goal was validated by goal-line technology after referee Will Finnie checked his watch, sending the York fans rushing onto the pitch in jubilation.
“Everyone has been saying ‘York-time’ this season, and there’s a strong sense of belief and unity in this squad,” said York City manager Stuart Maynard to DAZN.
“The players are fighters. When Rochdale scored, our team came over to the bench and declared that we had one last opportunity. That’s been our mantra all year.”
“We’re like one big family. I have immense love for all of them.”
York concluded the season as champions with 108 points, marking their return to the Football League after a decade away, while Rochdale finished two points behind on 106 and will need to navigate the playoffs for a chance at promotion, with only one additional place in League Two available.
Prior to their showdown on the final day of the fifth tier, both York City and Rochdale issued a joint statement advocating for a reform of promotion rules.
“I hope Rochdale achieves promotion,” Maynard expressed on Saturday. “It’s unacceptable in this league that teams can accumulate over 100 points and not achieve promotion.”
Both clubs fell short in the playoffs last season, with York finishing as runners-up, only to see Oldham Athletic—who placed three positions lower and 23 points behind—secure promotion.
“Both clubs (York and Rochdale) have secured over 100 points. It’s disappointing one of us will be forced to battle again in the National League Play-Offs,” their joint statement read.
“We believe passionately that this situation should not arise.”
The 3UP campaign was initiated in February 2025, with the 72 clubs across the National League’s three divisions advocating for a third promotion slot into the English Football League.
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Compiled by SportArena.au
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