The match of the day is in the National League; Rochdale v York

Posted on April 25, 2026 by henry tapper

 

From York

From Rochdale

This Saturday’s game brings an end to one of the most thrilling, exciting and unpredictable title races in football history.

Both Rochdale and York City have the chance to write their names in National League history.

The National League is no longer a non-league competition. It is effectively a League 3, with fully professional clubs operating at a level equal to or higher than many of those in League 2.

We both understand how important this game is to both clubs and supporters. We both pledge now that whatever happens tomorrow, we will both continue to fight for 3UP.

Both clubs sit on over 100 points. One of us will have to fight once more in the National League Play-Offs. However, we both strongly believe that this shouldn’t have to be the case.

We call on the National League, Football Regulator, EFL and Premier League to come together immediately and resolve this issue, so that we do not have to highlight this injustice year after year.

For both sets of supporters attending the Crown Oil Arena this weekend, we say thank you for being with us all season. The passion you’ve shown for both clubs has been felt across the world. This game will be seen far and wide. We want to showcase this league for all its potential. Keep your support in the stands, not on the pitch, and let’s all protect the game we love.

Thank you!

York were up until the 99th minute of Rochdale’s last game

I think this video says a lot for the composure of both clubs in issuing the statement. It is only a game, though I wouldn’t be thinking that if I supported Rochdale or York!

An argument for two leagues to support the pyramid, one north and one south.

There are fans from the lower leagues arguing that league 2 should be merged with the National League and run as northern and southern (as the third division used to be).

I support Yeovil Town, we have been higher and lower than the National League. I do not want to travel the length and breadth of England but there are fans that do and we have more than most!

I can see the argument that Truro do not need to have played Gateshead and the other way round.

Let’s get it on but in the meantime, I’ll be listening to the radio for the Rochdale v York game before  Yeovil v Solihull! Forget West Ham and Tottenham the National League has it all!

Addendum – York in their turn score in 110th minute and sink Rochdale.

About henry tapper

Founder of the Pension PlayPen,, partner of Stella, father of Olly . I am the Pension Plowman
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3 Responses to The match of the day is in the National League; Rochdale v York

  1. derekscott1953 says:
    April 25, 2026 at 7.32

    That’s that – York have drawn 1-1 at Rochdale, and win the title and automatic promotion.

    So the play-offs are as follows.

    Tuesday eliminator – Scunthorpe v Southend
    Wednesday eliminator – Boreham Wood v Forest Green

    Semi-finals next Sunday, May 3
    Rochdale v Scunthorpe or Southend
    Carlisle v Boreham Wood or Forest Green

    Final at Wembley on Sunday May 10.

    Reply
  2. henry tapper says:
    April 25, 2026 at 7.32

    I will add the video of the brutal moment for Rochdale and the glorious moment for York.

    Reply

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