Words: Tom Reed
Early April is very much the “business end” of the English football season, with promotions and relegation stories entering their final chapters.
But Macclesfield FC have got the job done early, becoming Champions of the Northern Premier League, 20 points clear at the summit.
It is a smooth achievement for the Silkmen, but perhaps in keeping with the ambitions of their larger-than-life manager Robbie Savage.
Savage had a stellar career as a player with Leicester City and Wales, while fronting a love-hate relationship with opposition fans and referees.
It was no surprise then, that Savage hinted he’d resign in his debut season as gaffer of the Cheshire club if they didn’t go up.
With the leasing.com stadium set for National League North football next term, Savage has set a challenge of a staggering 103 points and 100 goals before this season is out.
It seems that the precociousness runs in the blood, as Savage’s son Freddie has recently made his senior debut for his old man, coming on as a substitute for Macclesfield against Blyth Spartans.
Macclesfield FC’s success is all the more poignant given they are a phoenix club, formed after the former club Macclesfield Town was dissolved following financial troubles in 2020.
“Macc Town” as they were known, had risen from the Cheshire League in the 1920’s to the Second Division of the Football League by the mid 90’s, so the Silkmen know all about hard graft.
On Saturday, the club has offered half-priced drinks in the club bar between 1-2pm before kick-off as they get the party started early.
“One Love. Star Lane End” reads a Silkmen flag on Macclesfield’s home stand.
Macclesfield’s star looks set to keep on rising.
