Macclesfield produced the biggest shock in FA Cup history by knocking out holders Crystal Palace, with 117 league places separating the two sides. The sixth-tier non-league club defeated the Premier League team 2-1, becoming the first cup holders to lose to non-league opposition since 1909.
Goals from captain Paul Dawson and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts sealed the victory, with Yeremy Pino's late free-kick proving a mere consolation. Manager John Rooney, brother of former Manchester United striker Wayne, led the team to a deserved win in front of a sell-out crowd of 5,348 at their Cheshire ground.
Macclesfield's squad of part-timers, who hold jobs in teaching, law and property, dominated their illustrious opponents throughout. Palace manager Oliver Glasner admitted it was a 'David against Goliath story' after his side's lacklustre performance.
The victory was dedicated to the memory of teammate Ethan McLeod, who died in a car accident last month. Rooney described the result as 'unbelievable' and expressed pride in his players for creating 'something special' for the fans.
