York City produced a late flourish to secure a 2-0 victory against Dagenham & Redbridge at the Chigwell Construction Stadium, leaving the home side languishing in the lower reaches of the National League. A cagey first half saw few clear-cut chances, with the referee reaching for his book four times. Dagenham’s Paul Mbiya-Kalambayi and Christian N’Guessan were cautioned, as were York’s Ryan Fallowfield and Alex Hunt. The teams went into the break goalless.
Half-time brought a raft of substitutions as both managers sought to invigorate their attacks. Dagenham & Redbridge replaced Shiloh Remy and the booked Mbiya-Kalambayi, while York City withdrew Dipo Akinyemi and Alex Hunt. The second half initially mirrored the first, with defences on top. However, the introduction of Lenell John-Lewis for York in the 69th minute proved to be the turning point. John-Lewis capitalised on a defensive error in the 80th minute to break the deadlock and give the visitors a crucial advantage.
Dagenham & Redbridge responded with a triple substitution, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. However, their commitment to attack left them exposed at the back, and deep into stoppage time, York substitute Ollie Pearce sealed the win with a clinical finish, assisted by fellow substitute Billy Chadwick. The late goal sparked jubilant scenes amongst the travelling York support, contrasting sharply with the disappointment of the home fans.
The victory lifts York City to fifth in the National League, and echoes a 2-1 win for them at the same ground earlier in the season. Despite the recent result, the overall head-to-head record between the two sides remains closely contested.