Rochdale and York City released the statement ahead of the big National League title showdown.

This weekend, Rochdale and York City are gearing up for a significant National League title clash, with the victor assured of a return to the EFL.

Rochdale and York City have released a statement ahead of their National League title showdown, calling for the three teams to win promotion to the English Football League. Both clubs have collected more than 100 points, but one could potentially miss out on a return to League Two.

With only one automatic promotion spot available from the top flight of the non-league, both clubs are advocating for significant changes. York are currently top of the table, having collected an incredible 107 points from their 45 games this season, while Rochdale are just two points behind on 105.

The winner, if there is one, guarantees promotion to the EFL, while a draw ensures York becomes the National League champion. Both teams have not been the top two teams in the division, with the title race reaching its climax.

After this weekend’s clash, the second-placed side will have to go through the play-offs, needing two more wins to seal promotion. Both clubs have expressed their support for the 3UP campaign, a National League initiative which aims to see three teams promoted to League Two while three teams are relegated.

York missed out on promotion to the EFL last season, finishing second with 96 points, six behind league winners Barnet. However, Munstermen were beaten by Oldham Athletic in the play-off semi-finals and co-owner Julie Ann O’Gla wrote a letter demanding a serious change to the promotion image.

It was a move that was condemned by some supporters, with the York City co-owner accused of sour grapes when he was comfortably beaten by Latics. However, their stance has not changed and both clubs released a joint statement earlier this weekend.

Rochdale are set for a National League title showdown with York this weekend.

The joint statement read: “This weekend’s game brings to an end one of the most thrilling, exciting and unpredictable title races in football history. Both we and York City have the opportunity to make our own name 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 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 keep fighting for 3UP.

“Both clubs are sitting on more than 100 points. One of us will have to fight again in the National League play-offs. However, we both strongly believe that should not happen.

“We call on the National League, the football regulator, the EFL and the Premier League to come together urgently and resolve this issue so that we do not have to highlight this injustice year after year.

“To both sets of supporters in attendance at the Crown Isle Arena this weekend, we say thank you for sticking with us all season. Your passion for both clubs has resonated globally.