1978/79
After a hugely disappointing 77/78-season, United approached the 78/79 season with a team that on paper looked more or less the same as the season before, but a knee injury to striker Stuart Pearson meant he would miss practically the entire season. Midway through the season - the arrival of McQueen and Jordan from Leeds would eventually make the team more solid on paper.
Legendary goalkeeper Alex Stepney had left for American and was replaced by young goalkeeper Gary Bailey. Bailey had lived in South-Africa for most of his life after his dad moved there in the 60s to play football. Gary paid his own ticket to fly to Old Trafford for a trial, and did well enough to be given a contract.
August:
Birmingham 1-0 (h) United kicked off against Birmingham and got off to a fine start with 1-0 win. United created a few chances but struggled to score, and had to wait until the 70th minute when Joe Jordan scored the winner
Leeds 3-2 (a) If the first match was uneventful, a match against bitter rivals Leeds at Elland Road would turn out to be a cracking football match. Leeds’ summer had been filled with turmoil, manager Jimmy Armfield wanted an extension of his contract but the board wanted him to prove himself at the beginning of the new season. They failed to come to an agreement and Armfield was relieved of his duties after 4 years in charge, and replaced by legendary Scottish manager Jock Stein after McMenemy, Ron Saunders and Don Howe all rejected offers. Legend Alan Clarke had also left in the summer to be player-manager at Barnsley and he was replaced by John Hawley from Hull and swiss striker Robert Stucki.
Manchester United quickly went 2-0 up against Leeds thanks to goals from former Leeds-player Gordon McQueen and Sammy McIlroy. Paul Hart pulled a goal back for Leeds just before the break, and then Frankie Gray equalized on penalty 3 minutes into the second half. Leeds had come from 0-2 down to grab a point against Arsenal at Highbury, but a late goal from Lou Macari gave United a late 3-2 winner.
Ipswich (a) 0-3 Next up was a trip to Portman Road, and United were completely torn apart by a very strong Ipswich-side under manager Bobby Robson. 2 England-internationals got the goals for Ipswich. Paul Mariner scored twice and Brian Talbot one, as Ipswich won the game by 3-0.
League Cup 2 round) United had been drawn against Stockport County in the League cup. Stockport were struggling in division 4, but United had to fight to win the match by 3-2. Stockport actually lead the game 2-1, but Jimmy Greenhoff and Joe Jordan scored in the second half to set up a 3rd round tie with Watford. Sammy McIlroy scored Uniteds first goal of the game
September:
Everton 1-1 (h) Everton had got off to a strong start with 2 wins and a draw, and United eventually were lucky to earn a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford. Midfielder Andy King gave Everton the lead in the first half and in a match where Joe Jordan was kept quiet by the excellent Mike Lyons, it was defender Martin Buchan who got a late equalizer for United.
QPR 1-1 (a) United played their 3rd league-game in a row without winning, when they met QPR at Loftus Road. Defender Ian Gillard put QPR 1-0 up in the first half, he scored only 9 goals in his entire 14 year-career at Loftus Road. Jimmy Greenhoff equalized for United in the second half. That was only QPR’s 2 point of the season, and it also meant that United dropped down to 8th place.
Nottingham 1-1 (h) Nottingham who convincingly won the league the season before had drawn 4 of their last 5 matches and struggled to score goals. The match against United at Old Trafford would not be an exception as the match ended 1-1, United’s third 1-1 game in a row. Ian Bowyer gave the visitors the lead before half-time, but once again it was experienced striker Jimmy Greenhoff who came to Uniteds rescue and scored the equalizer. A result which didn’t suit either manager.
Arsenal 1-1 (a) Arsenal had also had a poor start to the season, and a trip against the Gunners was the next match. It was no surprise that the match yet again ended 1-1. Steve Coppell scored his first goal of the season to give United the lead, but Arsenal-midfielder David Price struck for Arsenal and the match ended 1-1
Man City 1-0 (h) The last game in September was against neighbours Manchester City at Old Trafford. City had started the season really poorly, but had found form and won their last 3 matches with a 9-1 goal difference. But United won the game 1-0. Joe Jordan had continued to struggle in front of goal, but he became the hero when he struck in the second half to win the game for United.
October:
League Cup 3 round) United were huge favourites against Watford from division 3, but were beaten. Uniteds first defeat against division 3 opponents for 40 years. Joe Jordan put United 1-0 up but 2 goals by highly talented Luther Blissett turned the match around for Watford. Both of Blissetts goals were header, and the 20 year old scored 21 goals in the league that season.
Boro 3-2 (h) Uniteds first game after the embarrassing defeat to Watford, was at home to Middlesbrough who found themselves near the bottom of the table. Boro got off to a good start when David Mills put the visitors ahead, but 2 goals from Lou Macari gave United the lead at half-time. Micky Burns equalized for Boro in the second half, but Joe Jordan scored the 3-2 winner for United.
Villa 2-2 (a) The next match was away to Aston Villa. Future Villa-manager John Gregory who had signed from division 3 club Northampton the season before, struck twice in the first half for Villa, but United fought back in the second half. Sammy McIlroy pulled a goal back before Lou Macari equalized to the make the final result 2-2
Bristol City 1-3 (h) United had got off to a decent start to the season, but suffered a bad setback when they met Bristol City at Old Trafford and lost 1-3. Kevin Mabbutt (older brother of Spurs-legend Gary Mabbutt) was never a prolific goalscorer for Bristol City, but became one of few players to score a hat-trick against United at Old Trafford. Substitute Jimmy Greenhoff pulled a goal back for United.
Wolves 4-2 (a) United bounced back with a strong win away against Wolves by 4-2. Jimmy Greenhoff gave United the lead when his shot took a deflection and went past the goalkeeper Pearce. Greenhoff added the second 7 minutes later after Jordans header put him through on goal. Kenny Hibbert pulled a goal back with a shot that seemed to go straight through the arms of Paddy Roche. Brian Greenhoff hammered home 3-1 just before the break after Wolves couldn’t clear a low cross. Joe Jordan added the 4th goal in the second half when he chipped the goalkeeper Pearce at the beginning of the second half. Steve Daley scored the best goal of the game when he hammered the ball into the top corner from 20 yards. But that ended up being the last goal of the game, and United won 4-2
November:
Soton 1-1 (h) United started November with another poor performance at home. Despite taking an early lead by Jimmy Greenhoff, they had to settle for 1-1 against Southampton who were placed near the bottom of the table. Midfielder Nick Holmes scored the equalizer for Southampton to earn them an important point
Birmingham 1-5 (a) November 11th 1978 might possible go over in history as the worst performance by United ever. Birmingham had started the season with 3 draws and 10 defeats, and a goal difference of 7-25. Not even the most optimistic Birmingham-fan would have guessed what was about to happen at St.Andrews with the home-team destroying United by 5-1. Kevin Dillon, Alan Buckley and Don Givens put Birmingham 3-0 up, before Joe Jordan pulled a goal back just before the break. Alan Buckley and Jimmy Calderwood scored in the second half to make the final score an incredible 5-1.
Ipswich 2-0 (h) Next up was a match against Ipswich Town, and after 3 home-matches in a row without a win, United finally were victorious at Old Trafford. United could recall Gary Bailey and Gordon McQueen from injuries, and also gave a debut to Tommy Sloan. Sloan was signed in the summer from Ballymena, but would only play a total of 11 games for United. Steve Coppell gave United the lead in the 1 half, and Jimmy Greenhoff continued his fine form by adding the second after the break. 5 goals in 5 matches for the older of the Greenhoff-brothers.
Everton 0-3 (a) Everton were undefeated and proved a too tough task for United at Goodison Park. Trevor Ross and Andy King scored one goal each before the break to put Everton 2-0. Bob Latchford who had a habit of scoring against United struck in the 2nd half to make the final score 3-0. The defeat saw United drop down to 7th in the table, 9 points behind leaders Liverpool
Chelsea 1-0 (a) United finished november by beating Chelsea 1-0 at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea had started the season in the worst possible way and were at the bottom after 3 months. Once again 32 year old Jimmy Greenhoff struck for United, and scored the winner in the second half. This was also the debut game for Mickey Thomas. Sexton decided he needed a replacement for Hill and decided to sign the Welsh international from Wrexham for 300.000
December:
Derby Country 3-1 (a) United started December by playing Derby County at the Baseball Ground. With Stuart Pearson sidelined for the entire season and Joe Jordan also injured, Sexton surprisingly decided to start with 18 year old striker Andy Ritchie. The gamble should however pay off and Ritchie scored twice as United won 3-1.
Derby started the game with 2 former United-players, Gordon Hill and Garry Daly and it was the latter who scored the first goal of the game. His initial effort hit the woodwork, but eventually the ball again ended at Daly’s feet, and he hammered the ball home from 10 yards. Andy Ritchie equalized for United when his shot from a tight angle went under Derby-keeper Middleton. The ball was actually poked over the goal-line by McIlroy but the goal was given to Ritchie. United had the ball in the net twice from Macari and McIlroy, but the first was disallowed for a push by McQueen, the other for offside. Jimmy Greenhoff put United ahead in the second half after Derby failed to clear a Mickey Thomas-freekick. Andy Ritchie finished the game off, when he headed home a cross from Jimmy Greenhoff.
Tottenham 2-0 (h) United continued the fine form they showed against Derby, when they beat Tottenham 2-0 at Old Trafford. Sexton continued with the partnership of Ritchie and Greenhoff, and it paid off. Sammy McIlroy scored the first goal of the game, and Ritchie scored his 3rd goal in 2 matches. The win lifted United to 6th place and suddenly only 5 points behind leaders Liverpool
Bolton 0-3 (a) Any hopes United had of climbing up towards the top of the table was destroyed during the Christmas on 1978 with 3 defeats in 11 days. First they were destroyed 3-0 by a very average Bolton Wanderers-team. Bolton’s star-striker Frank Worthington scored twice and his striking partner Alan Gowling grabbed the last goal. Former United-defender Tony Dunne played for Bolton at the age of 37. Tom Connell made his debut for United in place of injured Stewart Houston.
Liverpool 0-3 (h) Things were going from bad to worse after another 3-0 defeat, this time to bitter rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford. Tom Connell continued at left back for United, but this was to be his last game for the club. Ray Kennedy and Jimmy Case scored for Liverpool before the break, and Jimmy Fairclough made it 3-0 in the second half.
WBA 3-5 (h) The match played on December 30th 1978 against WBA is by many considered to be one of the best matches of football played in England. United yet again ended up on the losing side against a WBA-side that were slowly climbing towards the top of the table. In the end it finished United – WBA 3-5.
Brian Greenhoff gave United the lead with the best goal of his career, a looping volley from 20 yards into the top corner. Tony Brown equalized shoot first time into the far corner to make it 1-1 a few minutes later. Len Cantello put WBA ahead with a thumping strike from 18 yards into the top corner, after Regis’ clever back-heel. United equalized when Gordon McQueen headed home Stewart Houston free-kick. 30 minutes played and it was 2-2. Just before half-time Sammy McIlroy put United in front when Coppell stole the ball from Derek Statham and McIlroy scored from 10 yards. Deep into injury-time Tony Brown made it 3-3 when he poked the ball home after Cantello had headed a cross down towards goal. Tony Brown who scored a total of 218 goals from his midfield position at WBA, lived in Wythenshawe as a boy and grew up a big Manchester United-fan. The second half was packed with chances and both Bailey and WBA-keeper Tony Godden made several good saves. Laurie Cunningham gave WBA the lead midway through the second-half. A long clearance by Godden which Regis flicked on, and Cunningham hammered the ball low past Bailey. Regis scored the last goal of the game when he ran onto an Ally Brown through-ball, and shoot over the advancing Bailey.
January 1979
FA Cup 3rd round) United easily beat Chelsea at Old Trafford to go through to the 4th round of the FA Cup. Chelsea were a mix of players who clearly was past their best (like Ron Harris and Peter Osgood), and several younger players who weren’t of the quality required. 2 wins in 24 matches put Chelsea at the bottom of the table, and without influential captain Ray Wilkins they were no match for United. United welcomed back Stuart Pearson after his long knee-injury. Steve Coppell gave United the lead in the first half, Jimmy Greenhoff and Ashley Grimes scored in the 2nd to give United a very comfortable 3-0 win.
FA Cup 4 round) United were drawn against another London-club in the 4th round of the FA Cup. 2 division Fulham at Craven Cottage ended with a 1-1 draw and a replay at Old Trafford. In-form Jimmy Greenhoff scored with a superb volley for United in the 40th minute, but Fulham-midfielder John Margerrison equalized in the 2nd half. He beat Brian Greenhoff in the air and headed home a cross from the right.
February 1979
Arsenal 0-2 (h) The poor league-form continued for United with a 2-0 defeat at home to Arsenal. Alan Sunderland was the man of the match scoring both goals and giving United their 4th consecutive defeat in the league
Man City 3-0 (a) United finally broke the bad spell when they beat neighbours City 3-0 away on February 10th. Steve Coppell gave United the lead after superb play from Sammy McIlroy who ran straight through the City-defence, went round the goalkeeper Corrigan and crossed for Coppell who shot past a group of players to make it 1-0. Coppell added a second 10 minutes for the break when he was put through by Greenhoff. From a tight angle and under pressure from a defender, Coppell chipped the goalkeeper to make it 2-0. Andy Ritchie scored the third goal in the second half, when McIlroys shot was blocked into his feet, and he hammered the rebound home.
FA Cup 4th round replay) Next up was the replay against Fulham. And not for the first time, it was Jimmy Greenhoff who would come to Uniteds rescue and score the winner. That was Greenhoffs 13th goal of the season.
FA Cup 5th round) Colchester was next for United in the FA Cup, and the minnows at times put United under pressure in the 1st half. Bailey made a couple of decent saves, and United even cleared one ball off the line. Once again it was Jimmy Greenhoff who would be the difference. A corner was flicked on by Andy Ritchie, and Greenhoff slotted the ball home at the far post. After the goal United dominated the rest of the game and won deservedly 1-0
Aston Villa 1-1 (h) After 2 weeks of only playing FA Cup, United met Villa at home in their next game. Both clubs were placed around 6-9 in the table, but drew too many matches. It was no big surprise that the match eventually ended 1-1. United took the lead when Jimmy Greenhoff scored from the penalty-spot, but Villa-defender Kenny Swain equalized near the end of the game.
QPR 2-0 (h) Next up for United was a home-game to QPR. The visitors had been in horrible form and were fighting against relegation. It would eventually be a fairly easy win for United, despite once again having both Pearson and Jordan out injured. Steve Coppell scored the first goal for United before the break, and Jimmy Greenhoff scored the final goal in the second half to make it 2-0 for United.
March 1979
Bristol City 2-1 (a) Uniteds fine form continued with a strong win away to Bristol City by 2-1. City got off to a good start and midfielder Gerry Gow put the home-team 1-0 up at half-time. United came out much stronger in the 2nd half and Andy Ritchie equalized after 90 seconds. United dominated the game after that goal and Gordon McQueen scored the winner 20 minutes before the end.
FA Cup QF) Tottenham and United drew 1-1 at White Hart Lane in the quarter final of the FA Cup. Osvaldo Ardilles who had joined Spurs after the World Cup scored the first goal of the game. Bailey came off his line to stop a freekick but misjudged the ball, and Ardilles headed the ball over the stranded goalkeeper. Mickey Thomas scored his first goal for United after an hour when United equalized. McIlroys corner deflected off McQueen and Thomas poked the ball home from close range.
FA Cup QF replay) The replay would prove a much easier task for United who won 2-0 against Tottenham. Joe Jordan returned to the starting line-up and scored the first goal when he headed home McIlroys freekick at the far post. Sammy McIlroy made it 2-0 in the 2nd half when he steered home Thomas’ low cross.
Coventry 3-4 (a) A period of 8 games without a defeat came to a halt when United lost 4-3 away to Coventry. The match was practically lost after 8 minutes when Barry Powell and Garry Thompson had made it 2-0 for the home-team. Steve Coppell pulled a goal back on 35 minutes, but any hope of a comeback was gone when Tommy Hutchison struck for Coventry just before the break. Bobby McDonald added a 4th on 47 minutes before United staged a late comeback. Sammy McIlroy made it 4-2 on 64 minutes and Steve Coppell added a third goal in the 89th minute. But it was too little too late, and United dropped to 9th in the table. Donato Nardiello played as a winger for Coventry in this game, he is the father of Daniel Nardiello who played for United U18 and reserves from 2001-2005.
Leeds 4-1 (h) United immediately returned to winning ways when rivals Leeds United were destroyed 4-1 at Old Trafford. With Joe Jordan missing from the line-up, Andy Ritchie was given the chance and the youngster scored a hat-trick. Within 20 minutes Manchester United were 3-0 up after 2 goals from Ritchie and one goal from Mickey Thomas. Leeds pulled a goal back through Ray Hankin midway through the second half, but Ritchie scored his third of the day 10 minutes before the end to make it 4-1.
Middlesbrough 2-2 (a) United came from 2-0 behind against Middlesbrough to earn a point. David Armstrong scored the first goal on a penalty before David Proctor added a second just before the break. Steve Coppell pulled a goal back early in the 2nd half, before Gordon McQueen grabbed the equalizer. Dave Sexton surprisingly dropped Andy Ritchie in favour of fit-again Joe Jordan for this match.
Fa Cup Semi-Final ) The semi-final between Liverpool and Man United was played at Maine Road, and was an action-packed game which ended 2-2. Kenny Dalglish gave Liverpool the lead after a brilliant piece of skill after 17 minutes. Just 3 minutes later United equalized. Jimmy Greenhoff kicked a high ball into the Liverpool penalty-area and Joe Jordan was highest and headed the ball into the bottom corner. Liverpool got the chance to restore their lead on a penalty, after an aledged push in the back by Buchan on Dalglish, but McDermott rolled the penalty against the post. Brian Greenhoff gave United the lead early in the 2nd half. A high ball was played into the area and Coppell poked it away from Clemence and Greenhoff looped the ball into the net. Alan Hansen got a late equalized after Bailey failed to hold a low cross. This was no more than Liverpool deserved after a strong second half.
April 1979
Fa Cup Semi-Final Replay) United secure a place in the finals at Wembley after a 1-0 in the replay against Liverpool at Goodison Park. United were by far the better side, and Clemence had to make several fine saves in the first half from Jordan, Macari and Coppell. Jordan later also headed against the bar, before Ray Kennedy did the same on the opposite side. Finally Jimmy Greenhoff broke the dead-lock in the 77th minute, when he headed Mickey Thomas’ bouncing cross past Ray Clemence. United were ready for Wembley where they would play Arsenal
Norwich 2-0 (a) Next up was a trip to Carrow Road against struggling Norwich. After 5 wins in the first 10 matches, the Canaries had quickly fallen down the table after just 4 wins in 6 months of league football. After a dull first half, the match came to life in the second half. Manchester-born midfielder Graham Paddon gave Norwich the lead before Keith Robson made it 2-0 with just 20 minutes left to play. But once again United came from 2-0 down to earn a point. Gordon McQueen pulled a goal back just minutes later, before Lou Macari equalized in the 83rd minute. That was his first league-goal in almost 6 months.
Bolton 1-2 (h) United suffered their first home-defeat in almost 3 months when they were surprisingly beaten by Bolton Wanderers. Bolton had been in good form over the last month and won 4 out of their last 5 games, but United were still firm favourites at home. Martin Buchan gave United a first-half lead, before Frank Worthington made it 1-1. Shortly after United were awarded a penalty which McQueen scored, but the referee spotted an infringement and ordered the kick to be retaken. This time McQueen hit the post. And Frank Worthington who had a superb season scored the winner. Worthington would eventually end up with the Golden Boat after scoring 24 goals.
Liverpool 0-2 (a) United played their 4th league game in a row without a win, when they lost 0-2 to bitter rivals Liverpool at Anfield. Liverpool were by far the better side and Kenny Dalglish got his 22nd goal of the season, when he headed home Alan Kennedys cross. Phil Neal made it 2-0 in the 2nd half when he poked a low cross from Case past Gary Bailey and into the net. United created a couple of chances, the biggest from Jordan and Macari – but Liverpool won deservedly.
Coventry 0-0 (h) Only 2 days later, United played Coventry at Old Trafford. The 2 teams had met just 3 weeks earlier in a 7-goal thriller at Highfield Road, but this match ended up in a dull 0-0 result. United were the better side and probably should have won the game, but couldn’t find a way past Coventry-keeper Les Sealey who would join United more than 10 years later.
Nottingham 1-1 (a) Due to a fixture-pile up, matches came thick and fast and United played their 4th game in 7 days when they met Nottingham away. United were without 3 of their attackers – Greenhoff, Ritchie and Pearson were all injured, and played a 4-5-1 with Jordan as a lone striker. And It was the Scot who put United ahead early in the 2nd half. Forest grabbed a point when star-striker Trevor Francis scored the equalizer. The match ended 1-1, and yet another league-game without a win for United.
Tottenham 1-1 (a) Next up was a match away to Tottenham, and yet again the match ended in a draw. Gordon McQueen headed United in front, but Jersey-born striker Chris Jones equalized for Spurs in the second half. Another draw meant that United only picked up 5 points in the last 7 games, without a single game won. For Spurs the situation was looking even more bleak with just 3 points from the last 8 games, and a season that included a home-defeat to Arsenal by 0-5 and a defeat away to Liverpool by 7-0.
Norwich 1-0 (h) United finally picked up a win after playing their 7th league game in 18 days. Norwich were beaten 1-0 at home, and the team from East Anglia would eventually finish the season without a single away-win. 13 draws and 8 defeats in 21 away matches. Lou Macari scored the winner, and he only scored 2 goals in the last 6 months of the season – both scored against Norwich.
Derby 0-0 (h) United hoped to build on their win against Norwich when they played Derby under old United-manager Docherty, but the match would be fairly uneventful and finish 0-0. For Derby this was a good result, and more or less guaranteed that they would avoid being relegated. For United it was a very poor result as they were still only a few points behind qualification to next years Uefa-Cup.
Southampton 1-1 (a) Even Uniteds next game away to Southampton would end with a draw. Experienced Southampton-striker Phil Boyer gave the hometeam the lead in the first half, but Andy Ritchie equalized not too long afterwards. United played a much weakened side with players like McIlroy, both Greenhoffs, Pearson, Buchan, Jordan, McQueen and Thomas all missing. A young Kevin Moran was given his debut for United while it was also a rear start for Tom Sloan and Steve Paterson
May 1979
WBA 0-1 (a) The third last league-game of the season ended with another defeat against WBA at the Hawthornes, but in a lot less exciting game than the one that was played at Old Trafford in December. Young striker Cyrille Regis was the difference between the sides when he scored the only goal of the game in the first half.
Wolverhampton 3-2 (h) United won their second last home-game 3-2 against Wolverhampton and gained some much needed confidence prior to the FA Cup-final against Arsenal later in the month. Wolves took the lead after an owngoal by Gary Bailey, but United turned the game around before half-time. Steve Coppell made it 1-1 before Andy Ritchie gave United the lead. Steven Coppell scored his 2nd goal of the game to make it 3-1 before Wolves striker John Richards pulled a goal back to make the final score 3-2
Chelsea 1-1 (h) Uniteds final match was at home to Chelsea in a match that meant very little for either side. United had all eyes on the FA Cup Final, while the Londoners already had been relegated after a horrible season. Gary Johnson gave the visitors the lead in the first half, but Steve Coppell got the equalizer and the match finished 1-1 in a lacklustre performance by United.
FA Cup Final: United met Arsenal at Wembley on May 12th 1979.
Arsenal: Jennings – Rice (Cpt), Nelson, O’Leary, Young – Rix, Price (Walford 83), Talbot, Brady – Sunderland, Stapleton
United: Bailey – Albiston, Buchan (Cpt), McQueen, Nicholl – Thomas, Macari, McIlroy, Coppell – J.Greenhoff, Jordan
Brian Talbot gave Arsenal the lead on 12 minutes. Stapleton sent a through-ball to Price who from a narrow angle rolled the ball back in front of goal where Brian Talbot hammered the ball into the empty net.
United created several chances through Jordan, Macari and Greenhoff and even had the ball in the net but McQueens goal was disallowed for a push on Jennings.
Just before the break, Frank Stapleton made it 2-0. Liam Brady showed his class by getting past a few United-players and put in a superb cross which Stapleton headed in at the far post.
Half-time
The game looked certain to end with a controlled Arsenal-win, but with 4 minutes remaining the match came to life. First Gordon McQueen scored to make it 2-1. A freekick from the right ended up with Joe Jordan who put in a low cross and McQueen sidefooted the ball home from 10 yards out.
2 minutes later Sammy McIlroy danced past a few defenders before rolling the ball past Pat Jennings and into the empty net. From 0-2 down to 2-2 in last than 2 minutes.
With less than a minute left of normal time, Arsenal grabbed the winner. Brady advanced through the middle and set up Graeme Rix on the left hand side. He put in a high cross that Gary Bailey misjudged and at the far post, Alan Sunderland managed to poke the ball into the empty net. Arsenal won the game 3-2, in what quite possibly was the best FA-Cup Final in history.
Summary:
United ended 9th with 15 wins, 15 draws and 12 defeats.
Leading scorer in all competitions: Jimmy Greenhoff 17 goals
Leading scorers in the league: Greenhoff and Steve Coppell 11 and Andy Ritchie 10
Most matches in the league: Steve Coppell 42, Sammy McIlroy 40, Martin Buchan 37 and Gordon McQueen 36.
After a hugely disappointing 77/78-season, United approached the 78/79 season with a team that on paper looked more or less the same as the season before, but a knee injury to striker Stuart Pearson meant he would miss practically the entire season. Midway through the season - the arrival of McQueen and Jordan from Leeds would eventually make the team more solid on paper.
Legendary goalkeeper Alex Stepney had left for American and was replaced by young goalkeeper Gary Bailey. Bailey had lived in South-Africa for most of his life after his dad moved there in the 60s to play football. Gary paid his own ticket to fly to Old Trafford for a trial, and did well enough to be given a contract.
August:
Birmingham 1-0 (h) United kicked off against Birmingham and got off to a fine start with 1-0 win. United created a few chances but struggled to score, and had to wait until the 70th minute when Joe Jordan scored the winner
Leeds 3-2 (a) If the first match was uneventful, a match against bitter rivals Leeds at Elland Road would turn out to be a cracking football match. Leeds’ summer had been filled with turmoil, manager Jimmy Armfield wanted an extension of his contract but the board wanted him to prove himself at the beginning of the new season. They failed to come to an agreement and Armfield was relieved of his duties after 4 years in charge, and replaced by legendary Scottish manager Jock Stein after McMenemy, Ron Saunders and Don Howe all rejected offers. Legend Alan Clarke had also left in the summer to be player-manager at Barnsley and he was replaced by John Hawley from Hull and swiss striker Robert Stucki.
Manchester United quickly went 2-0 up against Leeds thanks to goals from former Leeds-player Gordon McQueen and Sammy McIlroy. Paul Hart pulled a goal back for Leeds just before the break, and then Frankie Gray equalized on penalty 3 minutes into the second half. Leeds had come from 0-2 down to grab a point against Arsenal at Highbury, but a late goal from Lou Macari gave United a late 3-2 winner.
Ipswich (a) 0-3 Next up was a trip to Portman Road, and United were completely torn apart by a very strong Ipswich-side under manager Bobby Robson. 2 England-internationals got the goals for Ipswich. Paul Mariner scored twice and Brian Talbot one, as Ipswich won the game by 3-0.
League Cup 2 round) United had been drawn against Stockport County in the League cup. Stockport were struggling in division 4, but United had to fight to win the match by 3-2. Stockport actually lead the game 2-1, but Jimmy Greenhoff and Joe Jordan scored in the second half to set up a 3rd round tie with Watford. Sammy McIlroy scored Uniteds first goal of the game
September:
Everton 1-1 (h) Everton had got off to a strong start with 2 wins and a draw, and United eventually were lucky to earn a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford. Midfielder Andy King gave Everton the lead in the first half and in a match where Joe Jordan was kept quiet by the excellent Mike Lyons, it was defender Martin Buchan who got a late equalizer for United.
QPR 1-1 (a) United played their 3rd league-game in a row without winning, when they met QPR at Loftus Road. Defender Ian Gillard put QPR 1-0 up in the first half, he scored only 9 goals in his entire 14 year-career at Loftus Road. Jimmy Greenhoff equalized for United in the second half. That was only QPR’s 2 point of the season, and it also meant that United dropped down to 8th place.
Nottingham 1-1 (h) Nottingham who convincingly won the league the season before had drawn 4 of their last 5 matches and struggled to score goals. The match against United at Old Trafford would not be an exception as the match ended 1-1, United’s third 1-1 game in a row. Ian Bowyer gave the visitors the lead before half-time, but once again it was experienced striker Jimmy Greenhoff who came to Uniteds rescue and scored the equalizer. A result which didn’t suit either manager.
Arsenal 1-1 (a) Arsenal had also had a poor start to the season, and a trip against the Gunners was the next match. It was no surprise that the match yet again ended 1-1. Steve Coppell scored his first goal of the season to give United the lead, but Arsenal-midfielder David Price struck for Arsenal and the match ended 1-1
Man City 1-0 (h) The last game in September was against neighbours Manchester City at Old Trafford. City had started the season really poorly, but had found form and won their last 3 matches with a 9-1 goal difference. But United won the game 1-0. Joe Jordan had continued to struggle in front of goal, but he became the hero when he struck in the second half to win the game for United.
October:
League Cup 3 round) United were huge favourites against Watford from division 3, but were beaten. Uniteds first defeat against division 3 opponents for 40 years. Joe Jordan put United 1-0 up but 2 goals by highly talented Luther Blissett turned the match around for Watford. Both of Blissetts goals were header, and the 20 year old scored 21 goals in the league that season.
Boro 3-2 (h) Uniteds first game after the embarrassing defeat to Watford, was at home to Middlesbrough who found themselves near the bottom of the table. Boro got off to a good start when David Mills put the visitors ahead, but 2 goals from Lou Macari gave United the lead at half-time. Micky Burns equalized for Boro in the second half, but Joe Jordan scored the 3-2 winner for United.
Villa 2-2 (a) The next match was away to Aston Villa. Future Villa-manager John Gregory who had signed from division 3 club Northampton the season before, struck twice in the first half for Villa, but United fought back in the second half. Sammy McIlroy pulled a goal back before Lou Macari equalized to the make the final result 2-2
Bristol City 1-3 (h) United had got off to a decent start to the season, but suffered a bad setback when they met Bristol City at Old Trafford and lost 1-3. Kevin Mabbutt (older brother of Spurs-legend Gary Mabbutt) was never a prolific goalscorer for Bristol City, but became one of few players to score a hat-trick against United at Old Trafford. Substitute Jimmy Greenhoff pulled a goal back for United.
Wolves 4-2 (a) United bounced back with a strong win away against Wolves by 4-2. Jimmy Greenhoff gave United the lead when his shot took a deflection and went past the goalkeeper Pearce. Greenhoff added the second 7 minutes later after Jordans header put him through on goal. Kenny Hibbert pulled a goal back with a shot that seemed to go straight through the arms of Paddy Roche. Brian Greenhoff hammered home 3-1 just before the break after Wolves couldn’t clear a low cross. Joe Jordan added the 4th goal in the second half when he chipped the goalkeeper Pearce at the beginning of the second half. Steve Daley scored the best goal of the game when he hammered the ball into the top corner from 20 yards. But that ended up being the last goal of the game, and United won 4-2
November:
Soton 1-1 (h) United started November with another poor performance at home. Despite taking an early lead by Jimmy Greenhoff, they had to settle for 1-1 against Southampton who were placed near the bottom of the table. Midfielder Nick Holmes scored the equalizer for Southampton to earn them an important point
Birmingham 1-5 (a) November 11th 1978 might possible go over in history as the worst performance by United ever. Birmingham had started the season with 3 draws and 10 defeats, and a goal difference of 7-25. Not even the most optimistic Birmingham-fan would have guessed what was about to happen at St.Andrews with the home-team destroying United by 5-1. Kevin Dillon, Alan Buckley and Don Givens put Birmingham 3-0 up, before Joe Jordan pulled a goal back just before the break. Alan Buckley and Jimmy Calderwood scored in the second half to make the final score an incredible 5-1.
Ipswich 2-0 (h) Next up was a match against Ipswich Town, and after 3 home-matches in a row without a win, United finally were victorious at Old Trafford. United could recall Gary Bailey and Gordon McQueen from injuries, and also gave a debut to Tommy Sloan. Sloan was signed in the summer from Ballymena, but would only play a total of 11 games for United. Steve Coppell gave United the lead in the 1 half, and Jimmy Greenhoff continued his fine form by adding the second after the break. 5 goals in 5 matches for the older of the Greenhoff-brothers.
Everton 0-3 (a) Everton were undefeated and proved a too tough task for United at Goodison Park. Trevor Ross and Andy King scored one goal each before the break to put Everton 2-0. Bob Latchford who had a habit of scoring against United struck in the 2nd half to make the final score 3-0. The defeat saw United drop down to 7th in the table, 9 points behind leaders Liverpool
Chelsea 1-0 (a) United finished november by beating Chelsea 1-0 at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea had started the season in the worst possible way and were at the bottom after 3 months. Once again 32 year old Jimmy Greenhoff struck for United, and scored the winner in the second half. This was also the debut game for Mickey Thomas. Sexton decided he needed a replacement for Hill and decided to sign the Welsh international from Wrexham for 300.000
December:
Derby Country 3-1 (a) United started December by playing Derby County at the Baseball Ground. With Stuart Pearson sidelined for the entire season and Joe Jordan also injured, Sexton surprisingly decided to start with 18 year old striker Andy Ritchie. The gamble should however pay off and Ritchie scored twice as United won 3-1.
Derby started the game with 2 former United-players, Gordon Hill and Garry Daly and it was the latter who scored the first goal of the game. His initial effort hit the woodwork, but eventually the ball again ended at Daly’s feet, and he hammered the ball home from 10 yards. Andy Ritchie equalized for United when his shot from a tight angle went under Derby-keeper Middleton. The ball was actually poked over the goal-line by McIlroy but the goal was given to Ritchie. United had the ball in the net twice from Macari and McIlroy, but the first was disallowed for a push by McQueen, the other for offside. Jimmy Greenhoff put United ahead in the second half after Derby failed to clear a Mickey Thomas-freekick. Andy Ritchie finished the game off, when he headed home a cross from Jimmy Greenhoff.
Tottenham 2-0 (h) United continued the fine form they showed against Derby, when they beat Tottenham 2-0 at Old Trafford. Sexton continued with the partnership of Ritchie and Greenhoff, and it paid off. Sammy McIlroy scored the first goal of the game, and Ritchie scored his 3rd goal in 2 matches. The win lifted United to 6th place and suddenly only 5 points behind leaders Liverpool
Bolton 0-3 (a) Any hopes United had of climbing up towards the top of the table was destroyed during the Christmas on 1978 with 3 defeats in 11 days. First they were destroyed 3-0 by a very average Bolton Wanderers-team. Bolton’s star-striker Frank Worthington scored twice and his striking partner Alan Gowling grabbed the last goal. Former United-defender Tony Dunne played for Bolton at the age of 37. Tom Connell made his debut for United in place of injured Stewart Houston.
Liverpool 0-3 (h) Things were going from bad to worse after another 3-0 defeat, this time to bitter rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford. Tom Connell continued at left back for United, but this was to be his last game for the club. Ray Kennedy and Jimmy Case scored for Liverpool before the break, and Jimmy Fairclough made it 3-0 in the second half.
WBA 3-5 (h) The match played on December 30th 1978 against WBA is by many considered to be one of the best matches of football played in England. United yet again ended up on the losing side against a WBA-side that were slowly climbing towards the top of the table. In the end it finished United – WBA 3-5.
Brian Greenhoff gave United the lead with the best goal of his career, a looping volley from 20 yards into the top corner. Tony Brown equalized shoot first time into the far corner to make it 1-1 a few minutes later. Len Cantello put WBA ahead with a thumping strike from 18 yards into the top corner, after Regis’ clever back-heel. United equalized when Gordon McQueen headed home Stewart Houston free-kick. 30 minutes played and it was 2-2. Just before half-time Sammy McIlroy put United in front when Coppell stole the ball from Derek Statham and McIlroy scored from 10 yards. Deep into injury-time Tony Brown made it 3-3 when he poked the ball home after Cantello had headed a cross down towards goal. Tony Brown who scored a total of 218 goals from his midfield position at WBA, lived in Wythenshawe as a boy and grew up a big Manchester United-fan. The second half was packed with chances and both Bailey and WBA-keeper Tony Godden made several good saves. Laurie Cunningham gave WBA the lead midway through the second-half. A long clearance by Godden which Regis flicked on, and Cunningham hammered the ball low past Bailey. Regis scored the last goal of the game when he ran onto an Ally Brown through-ball, and shoot over the advancing Bailey.
January 1979
FA Cup 3rd round) United easily beat Chelsea at Old Trafford to go through to the 4th round of the FA Cup. Chelsea were a mix of players who clearly was past their best (like Ron Harris and Peter Osgood), and several younger players who weren’t of the quality required. 2 wins in 24 matches put Chelsea at the bottom of the table, and without influential captain Ray Wilkins they were no match for United. United welcomed back Stuart Pearson after his long knee-injury. Steve Coppell gave United the lead in the first half, Jimmy Greenhoff and Ashley Grimes scored in the 2nd to give United a very comfortable 3-0 win.
FA Cup 4 round) United were drawn against another London-club in the 4th round of the FA Cup. 2 division Fulham at Craven Cottage ended with a 1-1 draw and a replay at Old Trafford. In-form Jimmy Greenhoff scored with a superb volley for United in the 40th minute, but Fulham-midfielder John Margerrison equalized in the 2nd half. He beat Brian Greenhoff in the air and headed home a cross from the right.
February 1979
Arsenal 0-2 (h) The poor league-form continued for United with a 2-0 defeat at home to Arsenal. Alan Sunderland was the man of the match scoring both goals and giving United their 4th consecutive defeat in the league
Man City 3-0 (a) United finally broke the bad spell when they beat neighbours City 3-0 away on February 10th. Steve Coppell gave United the lead after superb play from Sammy McIlroy who ran straight through the City-defence, went round the goalkeeper Corrigan and crossed for Coppell who shot past a group of players to make it 1-0. Coppell added a second 10 minutes for the break when he was put through by Greenhoff. From a tight angle and under pressure from a defender, Coppell chipped the goalkeeper to make it 2-0. Andy Ritchie scored the third goal in the second half, when McIlroys shot was blocked into his feet, and he hammered the rebound home.
FA Cup 4th round replay) Next up was the replay against Fulham. And not for the first time, it was Jimmy Greenhoff who would come to Uniteds rescue and score the winner. That was Greenhoffs 13th goal of the season.
FA Cup 5th round) Colchester was next for United in the FA Cup, and the minnows at times put United under pressure in the 1st half. Bailey made a couple of decent saves, and United even cleared one ball off the line. Once again it was Jimmy Greenhoff who would be the difference. A corner was flicked on by Andy Ritchie, and Greenhoff slotted the ball home at the far post. After the goal United dominated the rest of the game and won deservedly 1-0
Aston Villa 1-1 (h) After 2 weeks of only playing FA Cup, United met Villa at home in their next game. Both clubs were placed around 6-9 in the table, but drew too many matches. It was no big surprise that the match eventually ended 1-1. United took the lead when Jimmy Greenhoff scored from the penalty-spot, but Villa-defender Kenny Swain equalized near the end of the game.
QPR 2-0 (h) Next up for United was a home-game to QPR. The visitors had been in horrible form and were fighting against relegation. It would eventually be a fairly easy win for United, despite once again having both Pearson and Jordan out injured. Steve Coppell scored the first goal for United before the break, and Jimmy Greenhoff scored the final goal in the second half to make it 2-0 for United.
March 1979
Bristol City 2-1 (a) Uniteds fine form continued with a strong win away to Bristol City by 2-1. City got off to a good start and midfielder Gerry Gow put the home-team 1-0 up at half-time. United came out much stronger in the 2nd half and Andy Ritchie equalized after 90 seconds. United dominated the game after that goal and Gordon McQueen scored the winner 20 minutes before the end.
FA Cup QF) Tottenham and United drew 1-1 at White Hart Lane in the quarter final of the FA Cup. Osvaldo Ardilles who had joined Spurs after the World Cup scored the first goal of the game. Bailey came off his line to stop a freekick but misjudged the ball, and Ardilles headed the ball over the stranded goalkeeper. Mickey Thomas scored his first goal for United after an hour when United equalized. McIlroys corner deflected off McQueen and Thomas poked the ball home from close range.
FA Cup QF replay) The replay would prove a much easier task for United who won 2-0 against Tottenham. Joe Jordan returned to the starting line-up and scored the first goal when he headed home McIlroys freekick at the far post. Sammy McIlroy made it 2-0 in the 2nd half when he steered home Thomas’ low cross.
Coventry 3-4 (a) A period of 8 games without a defeat came to a halt when United lost 4-3 away to Coventry. The match was practically lost after 8 minutes when Barry Powell and Garry Thompson had made it 2-0 for the home-team. Steve Coppell pulled a goal back on 35 minutes, but any hope of a comeback was gone when Tommy Hutchison struck for Coventry just before the break. Bobby McDonald added a 4th on 47 minutes before United staged a late comeback. Sammy McIlroy made it 4-2 on 64 minutes and Steve Coppell added a third goal in the 89th minute. But it was too little too late, and United dropped to 9th in the table. Donato Nardiello played as a winger for Coventry in this game, he is the father of Daniel Nardiello who played for United U18 and reserves from 2001-2005.
Leeds 4-1 (h) United immediately returned to winning ways when rivals Leeds United were destroyed 4-1 at Old Trafford. With Joe Jordan missing from the line-up, Andy Ritchie was given the chance and the youngster scored a hat-trick. Within 20 minutes Manchester United were 3-0 up after 2 goals from Ritchie and one goal from Mickey Thomas. Leeds pulled a goal back through Ray Hankin midway through the second half, but Ritchie scored his third of the day 10 minutes before the end to make it 4-1.
Middlesbrough 2-2 (a) United came from 2-0 behind against Middlesbrough to earn a point. David Armstrong scored the first goal on a penalty before David Proctor added a second just before the break. Steve Coppell pulled a goal back early in the 2nd half, before Gordon McQueen grabbed the equalizer. Dave Sexton surprisingly dropped Andy Ritchie in favour of fit-again Joe Jordan for this match.
Fa Cup Semi-Final ) The semi-final between Liverpool and Man United was played at Maine Road, and was an action-packed game which ended 2-2. Kenny Dalglish gave Liverpool the lead after a brilliant piece of skill after 17 minutes. Just 3 minutes later United equalized. Jimmy Greenhoff kicked a high ball into the Liverpool penalty-area and Joe Jordan was highest and headed the ball into the bottom corner. Liverpool got the chance to restore their lead on a penalty, after an aledged push in the back by Buchan on Dalglish, but McDermott rolled the penalty against the post. Brian Greenhoff gave United the lead early in the 2nd half. A high ball was played into the area and Coppell poked it away from Clemence and Greenhoff looped the ball into the net. Alan Hansen got a late equalized after Bailey failed to hold a low cross. This was no more than Liverpool deserved after a strong second half.
April 1979
Fa Cup Semi-Final Replay) United secure a place in the finals at Wembley after a 1-0 in the replay against Liverpool at Goodison Park. United were by far the better side, and Clemence had to make several fine saves in the first half from Jordan, Macari and Coppell. Jordan later also headed against the bar, before Ray Kennedy did the same on the opposite side. Finally Jimmy Greenhoff broke the dead-lock in the 77th minute, when he headed Mickey Thomas’ bouncing cross past Ray Clemence. United were ready for Wembley where they would play Arsenal
Norwich 2-0 (a) Next up was a trip to Carrow Road against struggling Norwich. After 5 wins in the first 10 matches, the Canaries had quickly fallen down the table after just 4 wins in 6 months of league football. After a dull first half, the match came to life in the second half. Manchester-born midfielder Graham Paddon gave Norwich the lead before Keith Robson made it 2-0 with just 20 minutes left to play. But once again United came from 2-0 down to earn a point. Gordon McQueen pulled a goal back just minutes later, before Lou Macari equalized in the 83rd minute. That was his first league-goal in almost 6 months.
Bolton 1-2 (h) United suffered their first home-defeat in almost 3 months when they were surprisingly beaten by Bolton Wanderers. Bolton had been in good form over the last month and won 4 out of their last 5 games, but United were still firm favourites at home. Martin Buchan gave United a first-half lead, before Frank Worthington made it 1-1. Shortly after United were awarded a penalty which McQueen scored, but the referee spotted an infringement and ordered the kick to be retaken. This time McQueen hit the post. And Frank Worthington who had a superb season scored the winner. Worthington would eventually end up with the Golden Boat after scoring 24 goals.
Liverpool 0-2 (a) United played their 4th league game in a row without a win, when they lost 0-2 to bitter rivals Liverpool at Anfield. Liverpool were by far the better side and Kenny Dalglish got his 22nd goal of the season, when he headed home Alan Kennedys cross. Phil Neal made it 2-0 in the 2nd half when he poked a low cross from Case past Gary Bailey and into the net. United created a couple of chances, the biggest from Jordan and Macari – but Liverpool won deservedly.
Coventry 0-0 (h) Only 2 days later, United played Coventry at Old Trafford. The 2 teams had met just 3 weeks earlier in a 7-goal thriller at Highfield Road, but this match ended up in a dull 0-0 result. United were the better side and probably should have won the game, but couldn’t find a way past Coventry-keeper Les Sealey who would join United more than 10 years later.
Nottingham 1-1 (a) Due to a fixture-pile up, matches came thick and fast and United played their 4th game in 7 days when they met Nottingham away. United were without 3 of their attackers – Greenhoff, Ritchie and Pearson were all injured, and played a 4-5-1 with Jordan as a lone striker. And It was the Scot who put United ahead early in the 2nd half. Forest grabbed a point when star-striker Trevor Francis scored the equalizer. The match ended 1-1, and yet another league-game without a win for United.
Tottenham 1-1 (a) Next up was a match away to Tottenham, and yet again the match ended in a draw. Gordon McQueen headed United in front, but Jersey-born striker Chris Jones equalized for Spurs in the second half. Another draw meant that United only picked up 5 points in the last 7 games, without a single game won. For Spurs the situation was looking even more bleak with just 3 points from the last 8 games, and a season that included a home-defeat to Arsenal by 0-5 and a defeat away to Liverpool by 7-0.
Norwich 1-0 (h) United finally picked up a win after playing their 7th league game in 18 days. Norwich were beaten 1-0 at home, and the team from East Anglia would eventually finish the season without a single away-win. 13 draws and 8 defeats in 21 away matches. Lou Macari scored the winner, and he only scored 2 goals in the last 6 months of the season – both scored against Norwich.
Derby 0-0 (h) United hoped to build on their win against Norwich when they played Derby under old United-manager Docherty, but the match would be fairly uneventful and finish 0-0. For Derby this was a good result, and more or less guaranteed that they would avoid being relegated. For United it was a very poor result as they were still only a few points behind qualification to next years Uefa-Cup.
Southampton 1-1 (a) Even Uniteds next game away to Southampton would end with a draw. Experienced Southampton-striker Phil Boyer gave the hometeam the lead in the first half, but Andy Ritchie equalized not too long afterwards. United played a much weakened side with players like McIlroy, both Greenhoffs, Pearson, Buchan, Jordan, McQueen and Thomas all missing. A young Kevin Moran was given his debut for United while it was also a rear start for Tom Sloan and Steve Paterson
May 1979
WBA 0-1 (a) The third last league-game of the season ended with another defeat against WBA at the Hawthornes, but in a lot less exciting game than the one that was played at Old Trafford in December. Young striker Cyrille Regis was the difference between the sides when he scored the only goal of the game in the first half.
Wolverhampton 3-2 (h) United won their second last home-game 3-2 against Wolverhampton and gained some much needed confidence prior to the FA Cup-final against Arsenal later in the month. Wolves took the lead after an owngoal by Gary Bailey, but United turned the game around before half-time. Steve Coppell made it 1-1 before Andy Ritchie gave United the lead. Steven Coppell scored his 2nd goal of the game to make it 3-1 before Wolves striker John Richards pulled a goal back to make the final score 3-2
Chelsea 1-1 (h) Uniteds final match was at home to Chelsea in a match that meant very little for either side. United had all eyes on the FA Cup Final, while the Londoners already had been relegated after a horrible season. Gary Johnson gave the visitors the lead in the first half, but Steve Coppell got the equalizer and the match finished 1-1 in a lacklustre performance by United.
FA Cup Final: United met Arsenal at Wembley on May 12th 1979.
Arsenal: Jennings – Rice (Cpt), Nelson, O’Leary, Young – Rix, Price (Walford 83), Talbot, Brady – Sunderland, Stapleton
United: Bailey – Albiston, Buchan (Cpt), McQueen, Nicholl – Thomas, Macari, McIlroy, Coppell – J.Greenhoff, Jordan
Brian Talbot gave Arsenal the lead on 12 minutes. Stapleton sent a through-ball to Price who from a narrow angle rolled the ball back in front of goal where Brian Talbot hammered the ball into the empty net.
United created several chances through Jordan, Macari and Greenhoff and even had the ball in the net but McQueens goal was disallowed for a push on Jennings.
Just before the break, Frank Stapleton made it 2-0. Liam Brady showed his class by getting past a few United-players and put in a superb cross which Stapleton headed in at the far post.
Half-time
The game looked certain to end with a controlled Arsenal-win, but with 4 minutes remaining the match came to life. First Gordon McQueen scored to make it 2-1. A freekick from the right ended up with Joe Jordan who put in a low cross and McQueen sidefooted the ball home from 10 yards out.
2 minutes later Sammy McIlroy danced past a few defenders before rolling the ball past Pat Jennings and into the empty net. From 0-2 down to 2-2 in last than 2 minutes.
With less than a minute left of normal time, Arsenal grabbed the winner. Brady advanced through the middle and set up Graeme Rix on the left hand side. He put in a high cross that Gary Bailey misjudged and at the far post, Alan Sunderland managed to poke the ball into the empty net. Arsenal won the game 3-2, in what quite possibly was the best FA-Cup Final in history.
Summary:
United ended 9th with 15 wins, 15 draws and 12 defeats.
Leading scorer in all competitions: Jimmy Greenhoff 17 goals
Leading scorers in the league: Greenhoff and Steve Coppell 11 and Andy Ritchie 10
Most matches in the league: Steve Coppell 42, Sammy McIlroy 40, Martin Buchan 37 and Gordon McQueen 36.