In one of the most seismic upsets in the long history of the FA Cup, sixth-tier Macclesfield defeated the reigning champions, Crystal Palace, on Saturday afternoon. The historic victory was dedicated by a tearful manager John Rooney to the memory of young striker Ethan McLeod, who tragically died in a car accident last month.
A Victory Forged in Emotion and Memory
John Rooney was overcome with emotion after his part-time National League North side secured a monumental 2-1 victory over Premier League giants Crystal Palace. The image and words of tribute to Ethan McLeod were displayed prominently behind the Macclesfield dugout throughout the match, serving as a powerful inspiration for the team.
"When we finished the game, I walked into the office and saw Ethan’s mum and dad in there," Rooney revealed. "That was very special to me knowing they were here with us, and I’m sure Ethan was definitely looking down on us today." The manager, who brought McLeod to the club, described the profound pain of informing the squad of the tragedy, calling it something "you can’t prepare for."
Historic Giant-Killing on the Pitch
The football itself was a stunning display of determination. Goals from Paul Dawson and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts gave Macclesfield a commanding two-goal lead. Despite a late, anxious finale after Yeremy Pino pulled one back for Palace, the non-league side held firm to create history.
This result marks the first time since 1909 that a non-league team has eliminated the FA Cup holders – a gap of 117 years. The chasm between the two clubs was emphasised by the 117-place gap in the English football pyramid at kick-off.
A Family Affair and Community Pride
The emotional scenes extended to the Rooney family, as John shared a heartfelt hug with his brother, former England captain Wayne Rooney, who was covering the match for the BBC. "It's incredible to see my younger brother achieve this," Wayne said. "I am so proud of him."
Match-winner Paul Dawson summed up the feeling for the tight-knit club, stating, "Macclesfield means the world to me. It's an immense achievement. I am proud of the boys and proud of the fans. It's a really big community club." An elated but disbelieving John Rooney praised his players, saying, "We were incredible from the first minute. I thought we were deserved winners."
The day belonged to Macclesfield, a triumph of spirit and a poignant tribute that will be remembered far beyond the confines of the beautiful game.
