FA Cup: Macclesfield make history on emotional day

Many will feel Macclesfield fans deserved this moment after the difficulties they have endured in recent years.

In 2020, Macclesfield Town ceased trading, consigning 146 years of football to the history books.

Local businessman Robert Smethurst bought the club’s assets and, with former Wales midfielder Robbie Savage joining the board, they were reformed as a phoenix club.

After joining the ninth-tier North West Counties Premier Division, three promotions in four seasons have lifted them to the sixth tier, where they are just a handful of points outside the play-off places despite being in the bottom half of the table.

With Savage having left to join Forest Green Rovers, John Rooney took charge and he has fashioned a side who play with confidence and purpose, no matter who they face.

That image of bandaged captain Dawson celebrating with the fans will likely become iconic, certainly among the club’s supporters when they reflect upon a day that will live long in the memory.

“That shows what he is about,” Rooney said of Dawson.

“He’ll take cuts, he’ll take bruises. He’s a warrior. He pops up with goals, as well. He is not the biggest profile, but he is fantastic in the air.”

Rooney’s brother Wayne, covering the match for BBC Sport, was full of pride.

“It’s incredible to see my younger brother achieve this,” he said.

“He has not long been the manager. I am so proud of him.”