York City earns League Two promotion in thrilling last-day stalemate against challengers Rochdale

Rochdale, requiring a win to claim the championship and direct return to League Two from frontrunners York, believed they had succeeded when Emmanuel Dieseruvwe nodded them ahead in the 95th minute. That strike prompted an incursion onto the field by local fans, which postponed the continuation of play.

Stones netted the leveller in the 103rd minute with York's final effort of the campaign, bundling the ball across the goal line amid a chaotic melee as the team committed ten players upfield.

Ecstatic York supporters sang out "We are going up!"

The strike was verified via goal line technology following a check by referee Will Finnie on his wristwatch, triggering an exodus of York followers onto the turf.

"Everyone mentioned it this term, 'York time' and there is genuine conviction and unity in this squad," York City manager Stuart Maynard shared with DAZN.

"The squad members are fighters. After (Rochdale) netted, our players approached the sideline and insisted there was one final push left in them. We have achieved that throughout the season.

"We form one large family. I adore every one of them."

York concluded as title winners with 108 points, rejoining the Football League following a decade away, whereas Rochdale wrapped up two points adrift on 106 and will pursue elevation through the playoffs, offering just one extra League Two spot.

On Friday, York City and Rochdale released a combined plea for revisions to the promotion regulations before the decisive encounter on the concluding day of Englands fifth tier National League.

"I hope Rochdale achieve promotion," Maynard remarked on Saturday. "It is outrageous in this division that squads can surpass 100 points without ascending."

Each team fell short in the playoffs the previous year, with York as finalists only to witness Oldham Athletic, who placed three positions lower and 23 points behind, secure promotion.

"Both clubs (York and Rochdale) hold over 100 points. One must battle again in the National League Play-Offs," the collaborative declaration stated.

"Yet, we firmly contend that this ought not to occur."

The 3UP initiative debuted in February 2025, featuring the 72 teams from the National Leagues three division structure urging a third promotion slot into the English Football League.