The National League title race comes down to a dramatic final day as Rochdale welcome York City to Spotland. According to multiple reports, both teams have accumulated over 100 points, with York City leading Rochdale by two points. Rochdale must win to secure automatic promotion, while York City need only a draw to claim the title.
Rochdale's remarkable turnaround from near liquidation to promotion contention has been one of the stories of the season. According to a source familiar with the club's finances, Rochdale were at risk of liquidation two years ago before Sir Peter Ogden loaned £300,000 and purchased the club in May 2024. This came after Rochdale were relegated from the Football League in 2023 for the first time in 102 years.
Key players and moments have defined Rochdale's season. According to a source close to the club, former Rochdale player Joe Thompson died a year ago at age 36, and the club has played with added emotion in his memory. Ian Henderson, aged 41, is the oldest player in any of the top five leagues and continues to lead the line. Emmanuel Dieseruvwe scored a 99th-minute winner for Rochdale against Braintree Town last week, keeping their promotion hopes alive.
York City have been in formidable form, winning 17 of their past 20 games, according to a source familiar with the team's performance. The final day game is sold out, and York are showing it on big screens at their stadium for fans who could not get tickets.
At the other end of the table, Morecambe have been relegated from the National League after suffering relegations from League One in 2023 and League Two in 2025. Jim Bentley will manage his final game for Morecambe before stepping into a supporting role. Morecambe's owner, Panjab Warriors, had their head of communications' financial assets frozen by the UK government in December for alleged support of a terrorist organization in India, according to a source familiar with the matter. The exact financial situation of the club under this ownership remains unclear.
In the Northern Premier League West, Bury FC are likely to win the division if they avoid defeat at Atherton Collieries, according to a source familiar with the league standings. Bury's average attendance of 3,698 is almost five times that of the next-best-supported side in the division, highlighting the club's remarkable fan support as they continue their climb back up the football pyramid.