Macclesfield pulled off what is widely regarded as the FA Cup's greatest giantkilling by defeating holders Crystal Palace 2-1 in the third round. The sixth-tier side, 117 league places below their Premier League opponents, became the first non-league team to eliminate the reigning cup holders since 1909.
Paul Dawson's powerful header gave Macclesfield a half-time lead before Isaac Buckley-Ricketts added a second on the hour. Yeremy Pino's late free-kick set up a nervy finish, but the Silkmen held on to spark ecstatic scenes, including a pitch invasion from the sell-out crowd of 5,348. The victory was dedicated to the memory of teammate Ethan McLeod, who died in a car accident last month.
Manager John Rooney, brother of former Manchester United striker Wayne, said: 'It still doesn’t feel real. I thought we were deserved winners on the day. I’m really proud of the players.' Palace manager Oliver Glasner admitted it was a 'David against Goliath story' and refused to make excuses.
Macclesfield's squad is made up of part-timers working in teaching, law and property, yet they dominated the contest. Rooney, who shared a post-match moment with his brother Wayne, praised the fans and expressed a desire for a big away tie but said: 'You cannot beat playing here in front of these fans.'
