Awful conditions, not a match for the purists, job done: Brentford edge Macclesfield 1-0 to reach FA Cup fifth round

Macclesfield, Monday – Brentford booked a place in the FA Cup fifth round and a trip to West Ham United after a scrappy 1-0 victory over National League side Macclesfield Town, settled by an own goal on the synthetic surface at the Moss Rose.

Supporters who followed the tie described the contest as a classic cup leveller, played out on a difficult pitch that stifled fluent football and kept the Premier League outfit at arm’s length for long spells.

Ian, one of several fans canvassed after the final whistle, said the priority had been simple: “The main objective was to win, without getting any injuries. Throughout my life I have always said cup football is a great leveller. Credit to Macclesfield for making it difficult for Brentford.”

George admitted the Bees had heeded warnings from Crystal Palace’s shock exit at the same venue, selecting a side strong enough to avoid a similar fate. “They all count! Thankfully we were pre-warned by Crystal Palace’s woes and put out a team up to the task of seeing this one out. A solid second half followed a hairy first – off to West Ham we go.”

Jerry pinpointed the artificial surface as a factor in a subdued opening period. “Poor in the first half, which is no surprise given the nature of a synthetic pitch. But all credit to the Silkmen – you played very well. We were much better in the second half, possibly after getting used to the pitch and the opposition tiring as the game went on. A pity it was an own goal that settled it – but that’s football, I guess.”

Viewer reaction was unanimous in praising the hosts’ endeavour. Steve labelled the display “lacklustre” by Brentford’s recent standards, while David called Macclesfield’s effort “gritty” and “skilful”. Sami welcomed the chance to blood new signings and youngsters, noting that senior stars were spared ahead of the club’s push for European qualification in the league.

Summing up the mood, supporter HerzyBee captured the prevailing sentiment: “When the going gets tough, the tough let an own goal settle the tie. Awful conditions, not a match for the purists, job done.”

Brentford now turn their attention to a London derby at the London Stadium, where a place in the quarter-finals awaits the victor.