"In what may be the biggest upset in the long history of English soccer's FA Cup, sixth-tier non-league team Macclesfield FC stunned defending champions Crystal Palace with a 2-1 victory in the third round on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the country's much-loved sport. At their modest Moss Rose ground, Macclesfield who sit 117 places below Crystal Palace in the English football pyramid took a surprise lead shortly before half time, when captain Paul Dawson scored."
"The result marks the first time in 117 years that a side from outside the major national leagues has eliminated the reigning FA Cup holders the last being Crystal Palace themselves when they beat Wolverhampton Wanderers back in 1909. Statistically, the gap of five divisions between the two clubs makes this the most improbable "giant-killing" moment in FA Cup history a competition long cherished for its democratic magic, where amateur players can, on their day, topple the game's elite."
"Following the win, Macclesfield FC who are known as "the Silkmen" posted on social media: "It's David who beat Goliath against all odds!" On the final whistle, cheering Macclesfield supporters crowded onto the pitch and lifted several of the players aloft. For Macclesfield, a club that re-formed in 2020 after its previous incarnation was dissolved amid financial turmoil, the victory represents more than just soccer success for the local community."
Macclesfield FC, a sixth-tier non-league team, defeated Crystal Palace 2-1 in the FA Cup third round at Moss Rose. Macclesfield sit 117 places below Palace and took the lead shortly before half time when captain Paul Dawson scored. Isaac Buckley-Ricketts doubled the lead early in the second half, and Palace replied late with Yeremy Pino's free kick. The result is the first time in 117 years that a side outside the major national leagues has eliminated reigning FA Cup holders, and the five-division gap makes it an unprecedented giant-killing. Supporters celebrated on the pitch and the win holds deep meaning after the recent death of player Ethan McLeod.
Read at www.npr.org
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