When the final whistle blew to confirm non-league Macclesfield's stunning FA Cup upset of holders Crystal Palace, it prompted memorable scenes. Fans poured on to the pitch and lifted captain Paul Dawson into the air. In terms of the difference in league places, it was the greatest shock in the prestigious competition's long history. The gap was not evident on the pitch - Macclesfield fully deserved the result. It was a win earned against a backdrop of tragedy.

Source: BBC January 10, 2026 17:04 UTC