Macclesfield, Cheshire – In a moment that epitomized the magic of the FA Cup, Macclesfield FC, a non-league side, orchestrated a stunning 2-1 victory against Crystal Palace, the reigning FA Cup champions. The historic upset, marked by goals from Paul Dawson and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts, sent shockwaves through the footballing world and propelled the Silkmen into the fourth round of the competition.
The Leasing.com Stadium was electric as Macclesfield, currently 14th in the National League North, defied their underdog status against a Crystal Palace side sitting 117 league places above them. This difference marks the largest gap between two teams in FA Cup history. The victory was particularly sweet for the newly-reformed club, established in 2020 after the liquidation of Macclesfield Town.
Paul Dawson's header just before halftime ignited the home crowd. Isaac Buckley-Ricketts added a second in the 61st minute. Despite a late free-kick from Crystal Palace's Yeremy Pino in the 90th minute, Macclesfield held on to secure the win.
Adding to the emotional weight of the day was the presence of the family of Ethan McLeod, who tragically passed away last month.
The cameras captured former Manchester United and England star Wayne Rooney, on punditry duty for the BBC, visibly moved by his younger brother John's achievement. Reports indicated that Rooney was in tears as he watched John, who only took over as Macclesfield manager in July 2025, guide his team to victory. "It's incredible to see my younger brother achieve this," Rooney said on BBC One. "He has not long been the manager. I am so proud of him".
John Rooney, a former midfielder himself, retired from playing at the end of the 2024/25 season after helping Macclesfield secure promotion to the National League North. He expressed his disbelief and pride after the match, stating, "I can't believe it, we never thought we would be in this position. We were incredible from the first minute. I thought we were deserved winners. I couldn't be any prouder of the lads".
Macclesfield's journey to the third round involved overcoming several hurdles, including victories over Atherton LR, Nantwich Town, Stamford AFC, AFC Totton and Slough Town. The team's performance against Crystal Palace marked their first appearance in the FA Cup third round since their reformation.
The historic victory was celebrated wildly by players and fans alike, who flooded the pitch after the final whistle. Macclesfield's performance will be remembered as one of the greatest upsets in FA Cup history, a testament to the enduring allure and unpredictability of the competition.
