Greater Manchester Police are investigating a video that appears to show a York City player punching a fan following the club's dramatic 1-1 draw with Rochdale on Saturday, a result that secured York's promotion to the Football League after a 10-year absence.
Incident under investigation
Footage circulating online shows a fan approaching a York player who was on his knees with his head against the ground during a pitch invasion. After two stewards intervene, the player stands and appears to strike the fan in the face. Police confirmed they are reviewing the video and associated CCTV, stating: "We are aware of a video that is circulating of a possible assault involving a player and we have linked in with both clubs and the National League. We will be further assessing the video and reviewing CCTV of the incident."
The altercation occurred after York's last-gasp equaliser in the 113th minute, scored by Josh Stones, which earned them 108 points for the season and secured automatic promotion to League Two. The match saw two pitch invasions — the first after Rochdale's 96th-minute opener, the second after York's dramatic leveller.
Arrests and FA inquiry
Four Rochdale supporters were arrested — one on suspicion of assault and pitch incursion, one for a public order offence, and two for pitch incursion. One York City fan was also arrested on suspicion of assault and is due to be interviewed at a later date. The Football Association has opened its own investigation into the incidents. The BBC has contacted both York and Rochdale for comment.
High-stakes showdown
The final-day clash carried immense weight, with York and Rochdale combining for 212 points this season. York needed to avoid defeat to guarantee promotion, while Rochdale required a win to claim the National League title and automatic promotion. Instead, the draw confirmed York's return to the EFL, sparking wild celebrations — and chaos — at the final whistle.