Charlie Caton had looked like salvaging a point for Pools when he levelled six minutes earlier before Stones kept his cool to help York stay two points behind leaders Rochdale after extending their unbeaten league run to 20 games.

On the back of four successive wins, York took the lead in the 19th minute in stunning fashion, Alex Newby unleashing a half-volley from outside the box to register his third goal in five games.

The visitors levelled six minutes before half-time, Reiss McNally heading in Jamie Miley’s corner for his first goal since August, but Hiram Boateng put York back in front by nodding in an Ollie Banks cross before the added-time drama unfolded.