Sunderland

[Ref]

Something different here as it is about a team and not a player, simply because of the great achievment that they pulled off in 1973.

Few fans, players or TV pundits in the country gave Sunderland a prayer of beating the mighty Leeds, but no-one had counted on Sunderland keeper Jim Montgomery.

Leeds' star-studded side were expected to trample all over Bob Stokoe's Second Division strugglers, who had started the campaign as 250-1 outsiders for the cup.

But the Wearsiders approached the game with a refreshingly laid-back attitude, in contrast to Leeds' stern determination, and Stokoe got his tactics spot on.

They tackled defiantly and caused Leeds to look edgy, despite the fact that Don Revie's side were playing an eighth final in just nine seasons.



Ian Porterfield's Goal that shocked Wembley in 1973


Sunderland had Determination through out the game, and Leeds were frustrated as they dominated the game for the whole of the second half but were unable to find the back of the net to at least have a chance of a reply.

The Second Division no-hopers struck the crucial goal on 31 minutes.

Ian Porterfield bringing the ball down and volleying home in one sweet flowing movement to roars of approval from 20,000 Sunderland fans and 60,000 "neutrals".

Leeds were stung and battled back with predictable determination.

But Montgomery was outstanding, preserving the lead and his clean sheet with a string of fine saves.

The best of the lot defied belief as Montgomery, having kept out Trevor Cherry's header, twisted up from a prostrate position to acrobatically turn away Peter Lorimor's follow-up.

The final whistle prompted delirious celebrations, not least from Stokoe, who ran to embrace hero Montgomerie in one of Wembley's most enduring memories.



Bob Stokoe embracing hero Keeper Montgomerie.





The winning Team proudly showing off the FA Cup 1973.


FA Cup Final 1973
Sunderland 1-0 Leeds Utd
Scorer: Porterfield 31