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Schoolchildren celebrate Macclesfield's historic FA Cup upset and the part they played in the story

By Deborah Robson   14th Jan 2026

Macclesfield Academy students paid tribute to Ethan McLeod in December (Credit: Supplied)
Macclesfield Academy students paid tribute to Ethan McLeod in December (Credit: Supplied)

Schoolchildren have been celebrating the part they played in Macclesfield FC's historic FA Cup win.

Pupils at the Macclesfield Academy rolled up their sleeves last week to help prepare the Leasing.com Stadium for the Silkmen's third round clash with Crystal Palace.

The 4G pitch had been covered in snow and ice, requiring a huge community effort to help get it ready for the arrival of the Premier League outfit.

Headteacher Mathew Galvin couldn't be prouder of his students.

He said: "As a school which values the lessons sport can teach our community in life, we couldn't be prouder of the achievements of Macclesfield FC.

"There was a buzz around the school on Friday, and we're delighted the team could pull off an incredible achievement. 

"I've had people contacting me from all around the world to say well done to the club!"

READ MORE: Macclesfield 2-1 Crystal Palace – Dawson and Buckley-Ricketts make FA Cup history at Moss Rose

Macclesfield Academy pupils were among those to lay flowers outside the Leasing.com Stadium following the death of 21-year-old Ethan McLeod (Credit: Nub News)

In recent weeks, Macclesfield Academy pupils visited the football stadium to lay flowers in memory of Ethan McLeod.

The 21-year-old forward sadly passed away in December following a crash while on his way home from a match.

Reflecting on Saturday's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace, a Macclesfield fan and current Macclesfield Academy pupil said: "It was unbelievable.

"After Ethan's passing we didn't know how the game would go.

"That win was for him! It just shows the determination of the club."

     

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