The FA Cup's greatest ever giant-killing has been tinged with personal disappointment for one Macclesfield hero, after Manchester United's exit from the competition robbed him of a dream fourth-round tie.
Dream Denied After Historic Victory
Sam Heathcote, the primary school teacher who starred in defence for Macclesfield during their stunning 2-1 victory over holders Crystal Palace, had set his sights on facing his beloved Manchester United next. That aspiration was extinguished on Sunday when United lost 2-1 to Brighton & Hove Albion, crashing out in the third round.
The 28-year-old, a lifelong United supporter, revealed the poignant family history that made the potential fixture so special. His father, Graham, famously scored for Altrincham at the Kop end in an FA Cup tie against Liverpool 45 years ago, on January 3. "He said the only thing that could have potentially pipped it was if I played against United," Heathcote told Mirror Football.
A Weekend of Unbelievable Scenes
The National League North side, managed by John Rooney – brother of United legend Wayne – created history on Saturday by toppling Premier League opposition and the reigning cup champions. The victory, secured by goals from Paul Dawson and Luke Duffy, triggered a full-scale pitch invasion at the final whistle, with captain Dawson held aloft by celebrating fans.
Despite the euphoria, the reality of non-league life quickly returned for many of the players. Full-back Lewis Fensome was filmed back at his gym by teammate Josh Kay, with most of the squad returning to their day jobs on Monday. For Heathcote, the scale of the achievement was still sinking in over 24 hours later. "I just still feel really strange and I'm obviously still full of adrenaline," he admitted. "It's like it's just been a big dream over the weekend."
A Warning to Future Opponents
Despite facing a Palace side boasting a £35m January signing in Brennan Johnson and England international Marc Guehi, Heathcote insisted his team were never overawed. Their fearless, front-footed approach under Rooney served as a stark warning to any future opponents they may draw in Monday evening's fourth-round draw at Anfield.
"Everyone's just regular people, aren't they?" Heathcote stated. "They're normal men, just like we are. It was 11 v 11 yesterday, and that's the way you've got to look at it. You can't be starstruck... you can always have a go."
While the dream of facing Manchester United is gone, a different family legacy could yet be fulfilled. Should Liverpool avoid an upset against Barnsley, Heathcote could emulate his father by playing at Anfield in the next round, adding another remarkable chapter to Macclesfield's incredible cup run.
