A TOAST TO THE MAGIC OF CUP

Macclesfield remind us why famous old trophy still glitters

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SEASON in, season out, everyone's faith in the magic of the FA Cup is put to a stern test.

Ridiculous kickoff times, draws before a round is complete, managers fielding weakened teams.

But every season, the grand old competition delivers a response. Every season, something happens that makes you keep the faith.

Last season it was Crystal Palace winning their first major trophy by beating the formidable Manchester City at Wembley.

And this season some of the Palace fans who wept joy at Wembley stood and applauded Macclesfield players and fans after one of the FA Cup's greatest shocks. If not the greatest.

It was a magical moment. And regardless of Macclesfield's fourth-round fate, one that will stay with the part-timers for the rest of their lives.