In one of the FA Cup's wildest nights, sixth-tier Macclesfield – known as the Silkmen – pulled off a fairytale upset, beating holders Crystal Palace 2-1 at Moss Rose. ⚽✨
Separated by 117 spots in the English pyramid, the tiny club took the lead through captain Paul Dawson just before half-time. Isaac Buckley-Ricketts then made it 2-0 early in the second half after a scramble in the box. A late free-kick from Yeremy Pino set up a tense finish, but the Silkmen held on as fans chanted 'Silkmen! Silkmen!' and stormed the pitch at full-time. 🎉
The occasion was even more emotional with a tribute to 21-year-old forward Ethan McLeod, who tragically died in a car crash in December. A banner bearing his name hung behind the dugout and his parents cheered from the stands. Manager John Rooney said it was 'very special' to see them there and added that he was sure Ethan was looking down on everyone.
Macclesfield was relaunched after its predecessor was liquidated in 2020, and currently sits 14th in the National League North. Their stunning win is already being hailed as one of the greatest shocks in the FA Cup's 155-year history – proof that on any given day, the underdog can roar.
Meanwhile, Manchester City's 10-1 rout of third-tier Exeter grabbed headlines with a debut goal from their record signing, but it was the Silkmen's victory that stole the show. Who will be next to defy the odds? Stay tuned for more FA Cup magic! 🌟
Reference(s):
Macclesfield upsets FA Cup holder Crystal Palace in huge shock
cgtn.com
