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Sixth‑Tier Macclesfield Stuns Holders Crystal Palace to Reach FA Cup Fourth Round

The phoenix club rebuilt after a 2020 liquidation delivered the first non‑league elimination of a reigning FA Cup champion since 1909.

Overview

  • Paul Dawson’s header and Isaac Buckley‑Ricketts’ second‑half finish put Macclesfield 2‑0 up before Yeremy Pino’s late free kick set the final score at 2‑1.
  • Macclesfield, from the National League North, entered the tie roughly 117 places below Premier League side Crystal Palace in the English pyramid.
  • Manager John Rooney, in his first season in charge, told the BBC his players were “incredible” and fully earned the result.
  • Palace coach Oliver Glasner conceded his side “deserved to lose,” criticizing their lack of quality and intensity on the day.
  • Supporters stormed the 5,900‑capacity Moss Rose as the reformed club celebrated a landmark win, capping a rapid rise after three promotions and honoring the memory of late forward Ethan McLeod.