In a heart-stopping finale, York secured their return to the Football League with a 1-1 draw against Rochdale, thanks to Josh Stones' equalizing goal 13 minutes into added time. Rochdale had taken the lead through Emmanuel Dieseruvwe's header, sparking a pitch invasion by home supporters that delayed the game for six minutes.
However, York refused to give up and, with virtually the last kick of the game, Stones forced the ball over the line in a frantic scramble, sending the visiting fans into raptures. The goal was confirmed after the referee consulted his assistant, capping an incredible comeback for York, who had recently spent five seasons in the sixth-tier National League North.
York striker Stones expressed his joy, saying, 'We deserve it as a group, the staff, the fans. I love the club and that meant everything.' York manager Stuart Maynard also praised his team's togetherness and belief, saying, 'There's a real belief and togetherness in this camp...
Everything went out the window. Everyone went up front, we had no one back. Kick it, then we get a throw and throw it forward. We know with this group they keep going to the end and they deserve it.' Despite the disappointment, Rochdale can still secure promotion through the play-offs, and York's victory has capped an impressive season for the champions, who recorded 108 points to win the league.