Keith Andrews hailed Macclesfield FC after Brentford FC edged past them in the FA Cup fourth round.
He went straight to the home dressing room to congratulate the players on their performance.
Brentford progressed thanks to Sam Heathcote’s second-half own goal.
Until then, the National League North side’s disciplined defending frustrated the Premier League visitors.
Macclesfield had hoped for another upset after eliminating Crystal Palace in the previous round.
Andrews said the tie showed the spirit and adaptability of John Rooney’s team.
He called their display immense and a proper cup contest.
He also praised the club’s rise since its rebirth in 2020 after the collapse of Macclesfield Town.
He said stories like theirs capture the heart of the English football pyramid.
John Rooney welcomed the recognition.
He credited the squad’s unity and the club’s community backing.
Reaching the fourth round exceeded their expectations and became a source of pride for players and staff.
