In a remarkable turn of events, non-league club Macclesfield defeated holders Crystal Palace 2-1 in the third round of the FA Cup. The victory marks one of the most significant upsets in the tournament’s history, as Macclesfield sits 117 places below Palace in the English football pyramid. This win not only showcases the resilience of the Silkmen, who were reformed in 2020 following the winding up of Macclesfield Town, but also highlights the challenges faced by the reigning champions.
Macclesfield took the lead just before half-time, with captain Paul Dawson scoring a header from a free-kick delivered by Luke Duffy. Despite being under pressure, the Silkmen maintained their composure, and their belief grew as the match progressed. The second goal came from Isaac Buckley-Ricketts in the 60th minute, extending their lead to 2-0.
The Eagles, who had recently lifted the FA Cup in May 2023, struggled to respond effectively throughout the match. Their first significant attempt on goal didn’t come until the 13th minute when Yeremy Pino missed the target. Although Palace made three substitutions at half-time in an effort to change their fortunes, they continued to look lethargic and failed to create significant scoring opportunities.
As the game entered its final minutes, Palace finally found a moment of success. Pino scored from a free-kick in the 90th minute, creating a tense finish with six minutes of stoppage time. However, the goal proved too late for Palace, who ultimately succumbed to a strong Macclesfield side.
This match held special significance for Macclesfield, particularly in light of the recent loss of their young forward, Ethan McLeod, who tragically died in a car accident on December 16, 2023. The team dedicated their performance to McLeod, displaying an unwavering spirit that resonated throughout the game.
Crystal Palace’s struggles were evident as they faced a determined Macclesfield team. The Eagles, featuring several England internationals, including Marc Guéhi and Adam Wharton, were unable to find their rhythm. Their defensive vulnerabilities were exposed, particularly on set-pieces, which proved costly.
This defeat marks the first time that the FA Cup holders have lost to a non-league team since 1909, when Crystal Palace themselves upset Wolverhampton Wanderers. The significance of this victory for Macclesfield cannot be overstated, as it solidifies their place in FA Cup history.
The Silkmen’s fans celebrated enthusiastically as the final whistle blew, marking a day of triumph and remembrance for a club that has risen from challenging circumstances. As the competition progresses, Macclesfield’s performance serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the FA Cup and the spirit of football.
