Josh Stones scored an equaliser 13 minutes into added time that returned York to the Football League – with a dramatic 1-1 draw also featuring an injury-time goal for rivals Rochdale.
Rochdale, needing to win to pip leaders York to the National League title and automatic promotion for themselves at the Crown Oil Arena, scored through Emmanuel Dieseruvwe’s header, itself five minutes after the 90.
He rose to convert a cross from veteran Ian Henderson, sparking a pitch invasion from home supporters that delayed the game for six minutes.
Only six minutes added time had been put on the board but, by the time the game restarted, it was the 103rd minute when York striker Stones equalised, with virtually the last kick of the game.
He forced the ball over the line in a terrific scramble after York threw 10 players forward, a goal confirmed after referee Will Finnie consulted his assistant – sparking another pitch invasion, this time by visiting fans.
Rochdale could still go up in the play-offs and might have scored an earlier injury-time goal when York defender Callum Howe headed Casey Pettit’s corner against his own crossbar.
But, after recording 108 points to win the league, champions York have completed an impressive comeback, after recently spending five seasons in the sixth-tier National League North.
The drama in pictures…
York City’s Josh Stones scores an injury-time equaliser against Rochdale to win promotion from the National League
York City’s players celebrate after Josh Stones scores a late equaliser against Rochdale
York City’s Josh Stones celebrates at full time
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