Macclesfield's Historic FA Cup Upset Against Crystal Palace
Macclesfield's stunning FA Cup victory over holders Crystal Palace was sealed when the final whistle blew, leading to unforgettable scenes as fans rushed onto the pitch to lift captain Paul Dawson into the air.
With a bandaged head following an early clash in the remarkable 2-1 win, Dawson epitomized the spirit and determination of his team, who triumphed despite being ranked five divisions and 117 places below their Premier League opponents.
This victory marks the greatest upset in the history of the prestigious competition, as the gap in league standings was not reflected in the match performance—Macclesfield fully deserved their win.
The win came against a backdrop of tragedy, as Silkmen forward Ethan McLeod tragically lost his life in a car accident on December 16 while returning from a National League North match. His memory was present throughout the day, with a picture displayed between the dugouts and a banner in the stands at Moss Rose. McLeod's parents were in attendance.
Macclesfield manager John Rooney expressed the significance of having McLeod's parents at the game, stating, "I said to his parents: He is definitely watching down on us today. I feel he is here with us. That means so much to me."
‘That has to be the biggest upset’
Just last May, Crystal Palace celebrated their own FA Cup upset, defeating Manchester City at Wembley to win the trophy for the first time. However, on this occasion, Macclesfield played with passion and pride, while Palace struggled, marking their ninth consecutive game without a win across all competitions.
This victory makes Macclesfield the first non-league team to eliminate the FA Cup holders since Crystal Palace knocked out Wolves in the first round of the 1908-09 season. Additionally, they became the first non-league team to score twice in an FA Cup match against a Premier League team since Kettering Town faced Fulham in 2009, and the first against the holders since Runcorn played against Preston in 1939.
"The boys were outstanding. I couldn’t be any prouder," Rooney, brother of former England and Manchester United striker Wayne, remarked. "That has got to be the biggest upset. I thought we deserved to win the game. They won their individual duels, and the way we defended our box was impressive. We executed what we discussed in the dressing room before the game."
Macclesfield’s Rise After Lowest Ebb
Many fans believe this moment is well-deserved after the challenges Macclesfield has faced in recent years. In 2020, Macclesfield Town ceased operations, ending 146 years of football history. Local businessman Robert Smethurst acquired the club's assets, and with former Wales midfielder Robbie Savage joining the board, a phoenix club was formed.
Starting in the ninth-tier North West Counties Premier Division, the club has achieved three promotions in four seasons, now competing in the sixth tier, just a few points shy of the play-off places despite being in the bottom half of the table.
After Savage's departure to Forest Green Rovers, John Rooney took charge and has developed a confident and purposeful team capable of competing against anyone. The image of bandaged captain Dawson celebrating with fans is likely to become iconic, especially among the club's supporters, as they reflect on a day that will be remembered for years to come.
"That shows what he is about," Rooney said of Dawson. "He’ll take cuts, he’ll take bruises. He’s a warrior. He pops up with goals as well. He may not be the biggest profile, but he is fantastic in the air."
Wayne Rooney, covering the match for BBC Sport, expressed his pride: "It’s incredible to see my younger brother achieve this. I am so proud of him."
‘One of the Greatest Moments in FA Cup History’
The FA Cup is known for its ability to deliver shocks and memorable moments, and this result will undoubtedly rank among the best. Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock stated, "We have just witnessed one of the greatest moments in FA Cup history. They showed quality. What a day for Macclesfield and what a day for those players."
Former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson added, "The greatest cup competition in the world provides another piece of incredible history in front of our eyes. Macclesfield fans, young and old, have been waiting years for this. Every single one of these players put in a special performance today. You cannot underplay the enormity of this giant-killing."