York City secured the National League title and promotion to EFL League Two with a chaotic 1-1 draw at Rochdale on the final day. Emmanuel Dieseruvwe gave the hosts a dramatic lead in the 95th minute, but Josh Stones equalized two minutes later in a goalmouth scramble, sparking pitch invasions and joyous scenes. Celebrations continued into the next morning with players partying in their kits.
York City traveled to Rochdale's Crown Oil Arena needing just a point to claim the title ahead of the second-placed hosts, who trailed by two points entering the winner-takes-all clash. Rochdale struck first in the fifth minute of injury time when Emmanuel Dieseruvwe headed in his 26th goal of the season from Ian Henderson's delivery, prompting a home-fan pitch invasion. Order was restored, but substitute Josh Stones bundled the ball over the line in the 97th minute (officially 102nd/103rd) after a scramble from a Callum Howe header, securing the point York required.
The result crowned York National League champions, ending a 10-year EFL absence. Top scorer Ollie Pearce finished with 34 goals but didn't add to his tally. The trophy was lifted about 45 minutes after full time amid wild celebrations from York players and fans. The squad partied on the team bus in full kit before hitting York pubs and clubs, including Vudu Lounge, with revelry extending into the morning of April 26.
Co-owner Julie-Anne Uggla shared her joy on X: “Woke up this morning feeling a mix of shock, excitement, and overwhelming pride. YCFC are back in the EFL! It still doesn’t quite feel real. This promotion means everything. It’s not just about going up, it’s about the journey, the resilience, and the belief that never faded even in the toughest moments. This entire club, the players, staff, and every single supporter deserves this more than words can say. I couldn’t be prouder. What a team, what a spirit, what a club. And massive credit to Rochdale! They’ve been incredible and showed all season that they deserve promotion too. See you all in League 2!”
Rochdale finished with 106 points but must now go through the playoffs, starting next Sunday at home against Scunthorpe United or Southend United.
