In one of the most astonishing results in the long history of the FA Cup, sixth-tier Macclesfield defeated the reigning champions, Crystal Palace, on Saturday afternoon, 10 January 2026. The seismic 2-1 victory was immediately dedicated by manager John Rooney to the memory of a young player tragically killed just weeks before.
A Triumph Forged in Tragedy
Tearful manager John Rooney pointed to the spirit of Ethan McLeod as the inspiration behind the monumental upset. The young Macclesfield striker died in a car accident last month, and his image was displayed behind the dugout throughout the match. Rooney, who had a close relationship with McLeod, described the emotional moment he saw the player's parents after the final whistle.
"When we finished the game, I walked into the office and saw Ethan’s mum and dad in there," Rooney said. "That was very special to me... I’m sure Ethan was definitely looking down on us today." He revealed the difficulty of informing the squad of McLeod's death, calling it something "you can’t prepare for," and hailed the late striker as a "special lad and a special talent."
Historic Giant-Killing Act Seals 117-Year First
The match itself was a classic cup tie. Goals from Paul Dawson and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts gave the National League North part-timers a stunning two-goal lead. Despite a late consolation from Crystal Palace's Yeremy Pino, Macclesfield held on for a famous victory.
The result is historic. This marks the first time since 1909 that a non-league side has eliminated the FA Cup holders – a gap of 117 years. The chasm between the two clubs was emphasised by the 117-place gap in the English football pyramid at kick-off, with Palace a Premier League giant and Macclesfield a sixth-tier outfit.
Rooney Family Pride and Community Joy
The occasion was also a proud moment for the Rooney family. John's brother, Wayne Rooney, was visibly emotional while covering the match for the BBC, embracing his younger sibling on the pitch. "It's incredible to see my younger brother achieve this," Wayne stated. "I am so proud of him."
Match-winner Paul Dawson encapsulated the feelings of the club and its supporters. "I am very happy but very tired," he said. "Macclesfield means the world to me. It's an immense achievement... It's a really big community club." Manager John Rooney added, "I can't believe it. We were incredible from the first minute. I thought we were deserved winners."
The victory, set against a backdrop of profound loss, stands as a powerful testament to resilience, community, and the enduring magic of the FA Cup.
