Rochdale denied automatic promotion after stoppage time York equaliser

Saturday, 25 April 2026 16:12

By David Murphy

Rochdale missed out on automatic promotion to League Two after conceding a stoppage time equaliser in a 1 to 1 draw with York City on the final day of the National League season.

Rochdale entered the match knowing a win would secure promotion, while a draw would leave them in the playoffs. The sides were largely evenly matched, with few clear chances created during normal time.

Dan Moss had an early effort ruled out after a foul on the York goalkeeper, while both defences limited opportunities throughout the first half. After the break, Rochdale goalkeeper Ollie Whatmuff made several saves to keep the score level as York pushed forward.

The game turned deep into added time. Emmanuel Dieseruvwe headed Rochdale in front in the sixth minute of stoppage time, appearing to have secured promotion. The goal prompted celebrations among home supporters and a brief delay before play resumed.

York responded after the restart and Josh Stones scored an equaliser in the thirteenth minute of added time. There was uncertainty around whether the ball had fully crossed the line, but the assistant referee awarded the goal.

The result left Rochdale on 106 points, a total that would have secured automatic promotion in most seasons but was not enough under the current league structure. Both clubs had previously called for changes to the system, which promotes only the league winners automatically.

Rochdale will now enter the playoffs at the semi final stage. They are due to face the winner of the eliminator between Scunthorpe United and Southend United, with a place in the League Two promotion final at Wembley at stake.

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