Macclesfield reborn club beats Crystal Palace in FA Cup upset

Macclesfield’s phoenix club celebrated a shock FA Cup victory over holders Crystal Palace at Moss Rose as fans lingered on the pitch, recalling not long ago when many feared they might never return to the ground. The original club’s gravestone read "Macclesfield Town FC, 1874-2020" after finances ruined the old club and it was lost to the receivers in September 2020 following relegation and points sanctions.

The report says the Covid pandemic and what supporters saw as a shrugging response from the game’s authorities compounded the despair. Local entrepreneur Rob Smethurst bought Moss Rose’s fixtures and fittings via Rightmove, invested £4m and—he admits—made the initial snap decision while heavily under the influence.

The installation of a 4G pitch, gym facilities and a high-end bar helped bring people back, generate revenue and turn matchdays into a social occasion on a pitchside terrace. Robbie Savage served as a public frontman and last season led the club to the National League North, with BBC documentaries showing behind the scenes.

John Rooney replaced Savage as manager; Wayne Rooney, who lives locally, was reported to be moved to tears when his younger brother John masterminded the win. The club and owner Smethurst dedicated the victory to 21-year-old striker Ethan McLeod, who died on 16 December, with his parents in the stands.

Key Topics

Sports, Macclesfield Fc, Fa Cup, Crystal Palace, Moss Rose, Rob Smethurst