In one of the most remarkable giant-killings in the long history of the FA Cup, non-league Macclesfield FC have sensationally defeated the defending champions, Crystal Palace. The National League North side, sitting a staggering 117 places below their Premier League opponents, secured a famous 2-1 victory at the Leasing.com Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
An Unbelievable Scene and a Promise of Sun
The club's owner, Rob Smethurst, was overcome with emotion at the final whistle. Speaking to TNT Sports on the pitch, the 48-year-old promised his heroic squad a lavish reward for their historic achievement. "I've already planned the Ibiza trip already with the boys. Not right now, but definitely at the end of the season," Smethurst declared.
He admitted to fearing a heavy defeat before the match, stating, "It's Palace, an absolutely quality team. I was thinking 6-0, 7-0, but I've never seen anything like this. The players were insane." Smethurst's connection to the club is deeply personal; he famously purchased it via the property website Rightmove "after four days drinking", an act he says saved him from addiction and gave him a renewed sense of purpose.
Rooney Family Pride and a Poignant Tribute
The victory was masterminded by manager John Rooney, the younger brother of England legend Wayne Rooney. Watching from the BBC Sport studio, Wayne Rooney was visibly moved, stating he was "getting emotional to see my younger brother achieve this." He praised John's calm demeanour on such a momentous occasion.
John Rooney dedicated the emotional win to the memory of striker Ethan McLeod, who tragically died in a car crash in December. McLeod's parents were present at the match and joined the team in the dressing room afterwards. "A real special moment for Ethan's parents," Smethurst said. "He helped us to get here. I can't thank him and his family enough."
How the Historic Upset Unfolded
The match itself was a classic FA Cup tale. Against all odds, Macclesfield took the lead in the first half through a Paul Dawson header. The dream solidified when Isaac Buckley-Ricketts scored to put the non-league side in a commanding position, leaving Palace manager Oliver Glasner stunned.
Although Yeremy Pino scored a late free-kick for the Premier League title holders, it proved only a consolation. At the full-time whistle, ecstatic Macclesfield fans stormed the astroturf pitch in scenes of pure joy, celebrating a result that has put their club firmly back on the footballing map.
For owner Rob Smethurst, the community, and a club reborn from the ashes, this was more than just a win. It was the culmination of a five-year journey of redemption and belief, a true "stuff of dreams" moment that will be remembered for generations.
