Non-league Macclesfield pulled off one of the greatest shocks in FA Cup history on Saturday with a sensational victory over holders Crystal Palace, knocking the Premier League side out of the competition in dramatic fashion. Ranked 117 places below Palace in the English football pyramid, Macclesfield defied all expectations with a fearless and disciplined display that earned them a famous 2-1 win in front of jubilant home supporters. Paul Dawson set the tone for the upset in the first half when he rose highest to power home a brilliant header from Luke Duffy’s cross, sending the crowd into raptures. The hosts doubled their advantage shortly after the break when Isaac Buckley-Ricketts reacted quickest to a deflected shot, prodding the ball into the net to leave Palace stunned. Crystal Palace, who lifted the FA Cup last season after beating Manchester City in the final, dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances as their poor form continued. Their best early opportunity fell to 16-year-old Joel Drakes-Thomas, who narrowly missed connecting with Kaden Rodney’s inviting cross. Manager Oliver Glasner introduced experienced players Tyrick Mitchell, Johnson and Will Hughes at the start of the second half in a bid to change the game, but Macclesfield remained resolute and continued to play with confidence and belief. Palace were given a lifeline in stoppage time when Yeremy Pino curled a superb free-kick over the wall and under the bar to make it 2-1, setting up a tense finish. However, Macclesfield held their nerve to secure a victory that will live long in the club’s history. The defeat leaves Crystal Palace without a win in nine matches, marking their most disappointing result of a difficult run, while Macclesfield’s players and fans celebrated a night that will be remembered as one of the greatest giant-killings the FA Cup has ever witnessed.
FA Cup: Non-League Macclesfield Stun Holders Crystal Palace in Historic Upset
