Rochdale set up a final-day thriller with a 99th-minute winner against Braintree Town, securing a chance to win the National League on the last day. They host York City, who lead by two points, in a sold-out match. York have won 17 of their last 20 games, while Rochdale had a wobble in March and April. Rochdale captain Ethan Ebanks-Landell called it a massive game, perhaps unprecedented in football history.
More Misery for Morecambe
Morecambe have been relegated from the National League after dropping from League One in 2023 and League Two in 2025. Their season ends at Forest Green Rovers, who also were relegated in 2023 but have stabilized and secured a playoff spot. Manager Jim Bentley will step into a supporting role after his final game, aiming to bring a feelgood factor back to the club under new ownership Panjab Warriors, whose director had assets frozen by the UK government in December.
Title Beckons for Bury FC
A draw at Atherton Collieries likely makes Bury FC champions of the Northern Premier League West, their third league title in five years. Their average attendance of 3,698 is nearly five times that of the next-best-supported side, Clitheroe, and more than seven League Two teams.
Non-League Lows
East Grinstead Town host Margate seeking their second win of the season after 41 games, with six points and a -129 goal difference. Other struggling teams include AFC Dunstable (11 points, -132), Glasshoughton Welfare (10 points, -124), Axminster Town (one point, -120), and Copthorne (one point, -125). At the other end, Bovey Tracey have a +103 goal difference, Mulbarton Wanderers won the Eastern Counties Premier by 21 points, and Whitstable Town lead by 21 points on the final day.
Going Up or Going Down?
In National League North, Merthyr Town need a win against AFC Fylde and favorable results elsewhere to reach the playoffs. Alfreton Town, in 22nd, host Curzon Ashton in 21st, with both fighting relegation. Hereford, King's Lynn Town, and Bedford Town also face crucial matches.
All Eyes on the Top
In National League South, Maidenhead United and Hornchurch battle for playoff spots, with Worthing and Ebbsfleet also in contention. Maidstone United could sneak into the playoffs with a win against relegated Bath City.
VCD Athletic's Farewell?
VCD Athletic, founded in 1916 by workers at the Vickers armaments factory, play their last game at Sittingbourne after their ground was sold to property developers. Chair Gary Rump expressed deep pain over the club's closure, which continues a trend of club losses in the Kent area. Hillingdon Borough resigned, Hashtag United requested relegation for budget reasons, and Bedlington Terriers folded earlier this year.
