Introduction to the 1973 FA Cup Final
73 FA Cup final stands out as one of the most memorable and historic matches in the storied history of English football. Held at Wembley Stadium on May 5, 1973, this final saw Sunderland AFC face off against Leeds United in a contest filled with drama, skill, and unforgettable moments. The 1973 FA Cup final not only showcased the passion and spirit of the game but also marked a significant chapter in both clubs' histories. This article delves deep into the background of the match, the journey of both teams to the final, the key moments of the game, and its lasting legacy in football lore.
Background and Significance of the 1973 FA Cup Final
The FA Cup: A Historic Competition
The FA Cup, established in 1871, is the oldest football competition in the world. It has a rich tradition of bringing together teams from various levels of English football, culminating in a grand final at Wembley Stadium. The 1973 final was particularly notable for its competitive intensity and the high stakes involved.
Why the 1973 Final Was Special
- It was the 92nd final of the FA Cup.
- It featured two top-tier teams: Sunderland, a club with a proud history, and Leeds United, reigning league champions.
- The match was a classic example of tactical battle and resilience.
- The final is remembered for its dramatic finish and the underdog spirit displayed by Sunderland.
Path to the Final: How Sunderland and Leeds United Reached Wembley
Sunderland’s Journey
- Third Round: Defeated Hartlepool United 2-0.
- Fourth Round: Overcame West Ham United 4-1.
- Fifth Round: Beat Birmingham City 2-1.
- Quarter-Finals: Drew 2-2 with Wolverhampton Wanderers, then won the replay 2-1.
- Semi-Finals: Secured a 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Hillsborough Stadium, earning their place in the final.
Sunderland's journey was marked by resilience and strong defense, setting the stage for their historic final appearance.
Leeds United’s Path to Wembley
- Third Round: Won against Birmingham City 1-0.
- Fourth Round: Beat Crystal Palace 3-0.
- Fifth Round: Overcame Leicester City 4-2.
- Quarter-Finals: Narrowly defeated Watford 2-1.
- Semi-Finals: Drew 0-0 with Wolverhampton Wanderers, then advanced after a replay with a 1-0 win.
Leeds United, under the management of Don Revie, entered the final as one of the strongest teams in the country, known for their attacking style and disciplined defense.
The Match Day: 5th May 1973 at Wembley Stadium
Pre-Match Atmosphere
The 1973 FA Cup final drew a crowd of approximately 100,000 spectators, eager to witness a clash between two formidable teams. The atmosphere was electric, with supporters from all over England and beyond filling Wembley in anticipation of a classic encounter.
Starting Lineups and Key Players
Sunderland:
- Goalkeeper: Jim Montgomery
- Defense: Jim McNab, Dennis Tueart, Eric Gates
- Midfield: Tony Towers, Ian Porterfield, John Hawley
- Forwards: Ian Porterfield, Bobby Kerr, David Halliday, Peter Lorimer
Leeds United:
- Goalkeeper: David Harvey
- Defense: Paul Reaney, Jack Charlton, Norman Hunter
- Midfield: Billy Bremner, Johnny Giles, Peter Lorimer
- Forwards: Mick Jones, Allan Clarke, Peter Barnes, Norman Hunter
Key players included Ian Porterfield for Sunderland and Billy Bremner for Leeds, both of whom played pivotal roles during the game.
Key Moments of the 1973 FA Cup Final
The Decisive Goal
The match was tightly contested, with both teams creating chances. However, the only goal came from Sunderland’s Ian Porterfield in the 37th minute. The goal was a low shot from outside the box, beating Leeds’ goalkeeper David Harvey. This goal proved to be the match-winner and has become one of the most iconic moments in FA Cup history.
Leeds United’s Near Misses
Leeds pushed hard in the second half, creating several opportunities to level the score. Notable attempts included:
- A shot from Mick Jones that was saved by Jim Montgomery.
- A header from Johnny Giles that went just wide.
- Persistent pressure that tested Sunderland’s defense.
Despite their efforts, Leeds was unable to find the equalizer.
Sunderland’s Defensive Resilience
Sunderland’s defensive line, led by Jim McNab and the goalkeeper Montgomery, held firm against Leeds’ attacking pressure. Their disciplined defending was crucial in maintaining the lead and securing their first FA Cup victory since 1937.
Post-Match Reactions and Impact
The Aftermath of the Final
- Sunderland celebrated their victory, with players and fans cherishing their historic win.
- Leeds United was disappointed but recognized the quality of Sunderland’s performance.
- The match was broadcast live, attracting a nationwide audience and further cementing its place in football history.
Legacy of the 1973 FA Cup Final
- It remains a classic example of an underdog triumph, inspiring future generations.
- Ian Porterfield’s winning goal is often cited among the greatest in FA Cup history.
- The final reinforced Wembley’s status as the home of English football’s most iconic matches.
- It highlighted the importance of resilience, teamwork, and tactical discipline.
Historical Significance and Cultural Impact
Impact on Sunderland Football Club
- Their first FA Cup victory in 36 years.
- The win boosted club morale and legacy, celebrated by fans for decades.
- Inspired subsequent generations of players and supporters.
Leeds United’s Continued Success
- Although they lost the final, Leeds remained a top team in England.
- The match showcased the squad’s attacking prowess and fighting spirit.
- The loss became a motivating factor for future seasons.
Memorable Moments and Stories
- Ian Porterfield’s iconic goal remains a symbol of determination.
- The tactical battle between managers Don Revie and Sunderland’s coaching staff.
- The match is frequently discussed in football documentaries and history books as a prime example of FA Cup drama.
Comparisons with Other FA Cup Finals
How the 1973 Final Stands Out
- The narrow scoreline and dramatic winning goal.
- The underdog victory against a league champion.
- The intense atmosphere and passionate fan support.
- Its place in the pantheon of classic FA Cup finals alongside matches like 1953, 1983, and 1999.
Conclusion: The Lasting Legacy of the 1973 FA Cup Final
The 73 FA Cup final remains one of the most celebrated and iconic matches in English football history. It exemplified the magic of the FA Cup—where giants clash with underdogs, and moments of brilliance and resilience define legacies. Sunderland’s victory, driven by Porterfield’s unforgettable goal and a disciplined team effort, continues to inspire football fans worldwide. The match’s historical significance, memorable moments, and cultural impact ensure its place in the annals of football history for generations to come.
Whether you're a football historian, a dedicated supporter, or a casual admirer of the beautiful game, the 1973 FA Cup final is a testament to the unpredictability and excitement that make football the world's most beloved sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the winning goal in the 1973 FA Cup Final?
Tony Field scored the winning goal for Sunderland in the 1973 FA Cup Final.
Which teams competed in the 1973 FA Cup Final?
The 1973 FA Cup Final was contested between Sunderland and Leeds United.
Where was the 1973 FA Cup Final held?
The final was held at Wembley Stadium in London.
What was the final score of the 1973 FA Cup Final?
Sunderland defeated Leeds United 1-0 to win the match.
Why is the 1973 FA Cup Final considered a historic moment?
It was Sunderland's first FA Cup victory in 50 years, and the match is remembered for its dramatic finish and underdog story.
Who was the captain of Sunderland during the 1973 FA Cup Final?
The captain was Jim Montgomery.
Did any notable players participate in the 1973 FA Cup Final?
Yes, notable players included John Hawley and Ian Porterfield for Sunderland, and Billy Bremner for Leeds United.
