A shocking video has emerged showing a potential altercation between a York City player and a fan during their intense 1-1 draw against Rochdale on Saturday, with police confirming they are investigating the incident. The clash, which saw York secure promotion back to the Football League after a 10-year absence, was marred by two pitch invasions, one of which appears to have led to an altercation between a fan and a player.
The Dramatic Final Moments:
The match was a nail-biting affair, with Josh Stones scoring a dramatic equalizer for York in the 13th minute of stoppage time, securing a hard-fought point and sending the club back into the Football League. However, the celebrations were interrupted by chaotic scenes as fans stormed the pitch, adding a layer of tension to the already high-stakes encounter.
The Alleged Assault:
During the second pitch invasion, footage surfaced showing a York City player on the ground, appearing to be confronted by a fan. The fan, who seemingly had his hands on the player, was met with an apparent punch to the face after the player stood up and broke free from the altercation. Two stewards had to intervene during the scuffle to restore order.
Greater Manchester Police have acknowledged the circulation of the video and are now reviewing CCTV footage and liaising with both clubs involved, as well as the National League, to assess the situation further.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigations:
Following the pitch invasions, police arrested multiple individuals, including four Rochdale fans. One was arrested for suspicion of assault and pitch invasion, while others were detained on charges of public order offenses and pitch incursions. A York City fan was also arrested on suspicion of assault and is expected to be interviewed by the police in due course. Both the Football Association and local authorities are continuing their investigations into the incident.
With tensions running high on the final day of the season, York and Rochdale had accumulated an impressive 212 points between them, with York needing just a draw to secure promotion to League Two.
