John Rooney dedicated Macclesfield's historic FA Cup victory over Crystal Palace to young striker Ethan McLeod, who died in a road accident last month. The National League North side stunned the Premier League holders with a 2-1 win.
Tributes to McLeod were displayed behind the dugout, and Rooney, visibly emotional, said he was moved to see the player's parents after the match. "When we finished the game, I walked into the office and saw Ethan's mum and dad in there," he said. "That was very special to me knowing they were here with us, and I'm sure Ethan was definitely looking down on us today."
Rooney, who brought McLeod to the club, described the striker as "a special lad and a special talent" and admitted breaking the news of his death to the squad was something "you can't prepare for". After the final whistle, he shared an emotional embrace with his brother Wayne, who said: "It's incredible to see my younger brother achieve this, he has not long been the manager. I am so proud of him."
Goals from Paul Dawson and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts put Macclesfield in control, and they held on despite a late strike from Yeremy Pino. The result marked the first time a non-league side had eliminated the FA Cup holders since 1909, when Crystal Palace themselves beat Wolves. At kick-off, there were 117 places between the two sides.
"I can't believe it," said Rooney. "We never thought we would be in this position. We were incredible from the first minute. I thought we were deserved winners. I couldn't be any prouder of the lads." Dawson added: "I am very happy but very tired. Macclesfield means the world to me. It's an immense achievement. I am proud of the boys and proud of the fans."
