York City Are Back in the Football League — and We Couldn't Be Prouder

York City are back in the EFL. And what a way to do it.

In case you missed the drama — and it was truly one for the ages — here's how it unfolded.

York headed to Rochdale on Saturday 25 April knowing a point would be enough to seal promotion back to EFL League Two for the first time since 2016. Rochdale, sitting second, needed a win to pip York to automatic promotion.

The game seemed to be heading for a tense but comfortable draw. Then, in the 95th minute, Emmanuel Dieseruvwe headed Rochdale in front — sparking a pitch invasion that delayed the game for six minutes.

York were down. The dream wobbled. But this squad never stops believing.

Deep into the 103rd minute, with ten York players thrown forward and nothing to lose, striker Josh Stones bundled the ball over the line in a scramble that will be talked about in this city for decades. One final pitch invasion. Pure, unrestrained joy.

Final score: Rochdale 1–1 York City. Champions. Promoted.

108 Points, National League Champions

Let's not lose sight of just how dominant York have been this season. York were promoted back to EFL League Two for the first time since 2016, finishing as National League champions with a remarkable 108 points. Both York and Rochdale finished with 100+ points — a testament to how fiercely competitive the title race was all season long.

Manager Stuart Maynard — who took charge in August 2025 — has transformed this squad into champions in his first full season. His words after the final whistle said it all:

"There's a real belief and togetherness in this camp. When they scored, the players came over to the dugout and said there's one more chance for us. See all these players behind me — they are incredible. They work so hard, tirelessly every day."

What This Means for York

Promotion to League Two isn't just a football story. It's a city story.

York is a place that punches above its weight in almost every way — in history, culture, food, community. Having the football club back in the English Football League where it belongs adds another layer to that identity. Match days at LNER Community Stadium will be bigger. The city will be on the map in a different way. Local businesses, local pride, local energy — it all gets a lift.

At Redmove, we work in this city and the surrounding villages every single day. We see first-hand how much people love living here, and how much community spirit runs through York's veins. Saturday was a perfect reminder of that.

A City Worth Calling Home

York was already one of the most desirable places to live in the north of England. Excellent schools, stunning architecture, easy rail connections to Leeds, Manchester, and London — and now a Football League club to boot.

If Saturday's scenes gave you that warm feeling and you've been thinking about making York your home, we'd love to help. We cover the whole of York and the surrounding villages, and there's genuinely nowhere quite like it.

Come for the history. Stay for the community. And now — enjoy the football.

📞 Get in touch with the Redmove team: 01904 488 444