Shocking moment York player PUNCHES a Rochdale fan amid chaotic mid-match pitch invasion which saw them swipe promotion deep into injury time


A York City star appeared to strike a rival supporter during a pitch invasion during their National League title decider with Rochdale.

York were dramatically promoted to the EFL after a 1-1 draw at the Crown Oil Arena, with the result helping them finish two points clear of Rochdale to secure the sole automatic promotion spot in the division.

Rochdale had appeared to have won the match when Emmanuel Dieseruwe headed his side in front in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

The high-stakes goal was followed by a pitch invasion by Rochdale supporters, which led to the match being halted.

Footage shared on social media showed an unsavoury clash on the pitch, with York midfielder Hiram Boateng appearing to have been pushed to the ground by a Rochdale fan.

A matchday steward was seen intervening, allowing Boateng to clamber back to his feet.

The Rochdale fan was knocked backwards to the floor after being struck

York City midfielder Hiram Boateng was seen striking out at a Rochdale fan amid a pitch invasion in an apparent retaliation after being pushed to the ground

York City equalised after the pitch invasion to beat rivals Rochdale to the title by two points

York City equalised after the pitch invasion to beat rivals Rochdale to the title by two points

Boateng could then be seen moving around the steward amid the chaotic scenes, before striking out at the Rochdale fan.

The supporter was seen stumbling backwards and falling backwards onto the pitch.

It is unclear what occurred following the brief clip posted on social media.

Daily Mail Sport has contacted York City for comment. 

Boateng remained on the pitch as the match eventually resumed, with fans having returned to the stands after a six-minute delay.

A thrilling conclusion unfolded, with York equalising with the final action of the match.

Josh Stones was on hand to score following a goalmouth scramble, with the linesmen adjudging the ball had crossed the line despite a desperate attempted clearance by Rochdale defender Tyler Smith.

York City returned to the EFL after clinching promotion in dramatic fashion on Saturday

York City returned to the EFL after clinching promotion in dramatic fashion on Saturday 

York fans would ultimately be the ones celebrating at the final whistle as their side were promoted as National League champions on 108 points.

Rochdale will be forced to participate in the play-offs despite earning 106 points.

The team will face Southend or Scunthorpe next Sunday in a semi-final, despite finishing well clear of both this season.



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