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Rochdale 1-1 York City: Josh Stones’ late show propels the Minstermen back to the big time

Josh Stones struck an astonishing 103rd-minute leveller as York City climbed off the canvas to clinch promotion in a dramatic final-day decider at Spotland.

by
Chris Dunlavy
26 April 2026

York City players wheel away in jubilation after Josh Stones squeezes in their winner

ROCHDALE 1
Dieseruvwe 90+5

YORK CITY 1
Stones 90+13
Josh Stones struck an astonishing 103rd-minute leveller as York City climbed off the canvas to clinch promotion in a dramatic final-day decider at Spotland.
York arrived in Lancashire knowing a point would end their ten-year exile from the EFL. Hosts Rochdale needed all three.
And the devastated Minstermen thought they were down and out when Dale striker Mani Dieseruvwe headed home his 26th goal of the season in the fifth minute of stoppage time.
So did the hordes of jubilant Dale fans who invaded the pitch.

Drama
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Related TopicsEFL Football Josh Stones Mani Dieseruvwe National League Premium Rochdale Scunthorpe United Stuart Maynard York City

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