Discover the FA Cup Fourth Rounds Top 10 Thrilling Matches
The FA Cup fourth round has long been synonymous with drama and excitement, providing fans with some of the most memorable moments in English football history. As teams from all levels of the football pyramid compete for glory, it is often in this round where David meets Goliath, and dreams are either dashed or realized. This stage of the competition has produced nail-biting finishes, giant-killing surprises, and unforgettable goals that have left an indelible mark on the sport. Here, we delve into the top ten thrilling matches from the FA Cup fourth round that have captured the imagination of football enthusiasts around the world.
A Historic Upset: Shrewsbury Town vs. Everton
Back in the 2002-2003 season, Shrewsbury Town, then in the third tier of English football, hosted Premier League side Everton in a match that would go down in FA Cup folklore. Against all odds, Shrewsbury stunned the Toffees with a 2-1 victory, thanks to a brace from Nigel Jemson. This match epitomized the magic of the FA Cup, as the underdogs toppled a top-flight team, sending shockwaves through the footballing world.
Clash of the Titans: Manchester United vs. Liverpool
The FA Cup fourth round has often provided a stage for fierce rivalries to unfold, and the clash between Manchester United and Liverpool in the 1998-1999 season was no exception. In a tightly contested match at Old Trafford, United trailed 1-0 until the dying minutes. Goals from Dwight Yorke and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer turned the game on its head, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory for the Red Devils. This match was a testament to the tenacity and spirit of United during their treble-winning campaign.
A Goal Fest at Stamford Bridge: Chelsea vs. Birmingham City
In the 1969-1970 season, Chelsea faced Birmingham City at Stamford Bridge in a match that turned into a goal fest. The Blues emerged victorious with a 6-2 win, thanks to a hat-trick from Peter Osgood. This high-scoring encounter remains one of the most entertaining FA Cup fourth round matches, showcasing Chelsea’s attacking prowess and setting them on the path to eventual Cup glory that season.
The Giant-Killers: Sutton United vs. Leeds United
Sutton United’s clash with Leeds United in the 1970-1971 season is another classic giant-killing story from the FA Cup fourth round. Sutton, a non-league team at the time, stunned the football world by defeating top-flight Leeds 1-0. The victory was sealed by a goal from Paul Rogers, and the match remains one of the most significant upsets in FA Cup history, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the competition.
The Arsenal Comeback: Arsenal vs. Aston Villa
In the 2011-2012 FA Cup fourth round, Arsenal faced Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners found themselves 2-0 down at halftime, facing the prospect of an early exit from the competition. However, a spirited second-half comeback saw Arsenal score three goals in quick succession, courtesy of Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott, to win 3-2. This match exemplified Arsenal’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, delighting their home fans with a thrilling turnaround.
Barnsley’s Brave Battle: Barnsley vs. Liverpool
Barnsley’s encounter with Liverpool in the 2007-2008 FA Cup fourth round was a classic underdog story. The Championship side traveled to Anfield and shocked the home crowd with a 2-1 victory. Brian Howard’s injury-time winner sent Barnsley through to the next round, sparking jubilant celebrations among their traveling fans. This result was a testament to the FA Cup’s reputation for producing unexpected outcomes and capturing the nation’s imagination.
Derby Drama: Nottingham Forest vs. Derby County
The East Midlands derby between Nottingham Forest and Derby County in the 1979-1980 FA Cup fourth round was a fiercely contested encounter. Forest, then managed by the legendary Brian Clough, secured a 2-0 victory at the City Ground, thanks to goals from Garry Birtles and John Robertson. This match was not only significant due to the rivalry but also for Forest’s subsequent triumph in the competition, as they went on to lift the FA Cup that season.
Shock at the Den: Millwall vs. Leicester City
In the 2016-2017 FA Cup fourth round, Millwall hosted Premier League champions Leicester City at The Den. Despite being reduced to ten men, Millwall produced a stunning performance to secure a 1-0 victory, with Shaun Cummings scoring the decisive goal. This match was a prime example of the FA Cup’s unpredictability, as Millwall’s resilience and determination overcame the odds to defeat a top-flight opponent.
A Night to Remember: Wrexham vs. Arsenal
Wrexham’s clash with Arsenal in the 1991-1992 FA Cup fourth round remains one of the most iconic upsets in the competition’s history. The Welsh club, then in the fourth tier, hosted reigning First Division champions Arsenal at the Racecourse Ground. Despite trailing 1-0, Wrexham staged a remarkable comeback with late goals from Mickey Thomas and Steve Watkin, securing a 2-1 victory. This match epitomized the romance of the FA Cup, as Wrexham’s triumph over Arsenal became a symbol of the competition’s enduring appeal.
The Battle of St. James’ Park: Newcastle United vs. Manchester City
In the 1976-1977 FA Cup fourth round, Newcastle United faced Manchester City in a thrilling encounter at St. James’ Park. The match ended in a 3-1 victory for Newcastle, with goals from Alan Gowling and Paul Cannell sealing the win. This game was notable not only for the quality of football on display but also for the fervent atmosphere generated by the passionate home crowd, making it a memorable chapter in FA Cup history.
