After a tumultuous few years, during which United went from being European champions in 1968 to facing relegation to the old Second Division in 1974, fans who traveled to Wembley as part of Tommy Docherty’s renowned Red Army viewed the 1976 FA Cup final as a sign of the club’s resurgence. This optimism followed United’s impressive third-place finish in Division 1 after their promotion in 1975.
Unfortunately for the Reds, the day ended in disappointment as Southampton pulled off a stunning upset in the FA Cup. A lone goal from Bobby Stokes in the 83rd minute was all it took for the Saints to make history.
Docherty vowed to bring home the trophy, and although FA Cup success would eventually come for the Reds at the end of the following season, this particular day belonged to Southampton.
