On This Day (May 16th 1990): Sunderland Defy The Odds And Mag Hooligans To Reach Wembley!
Deep in the heart of enemy territory, the ‘G-Force’ once again showed their importance to Sunderland!
What a night on Tyneside! We all have some special memories of supporting this club. Some games stand out as never to be forgotten and this was one of them as we met The Visitors (formerly known as Newcastle United) in the semi-finals of the Division Two playoffs — and how the powers that be must’ve rejoiced when the fixture wasn’t played as a Wembley final showcase!
Our chance to take control had slipped through our hands during the home leg at Roker Park. The game ended in a scoreless draw, with Paul Hardyman having his last-minute penalty saved and also being sent off. I was in the Clock Stand and to this day, I’d say the atmosphere was the most hostile that I’ve ever experienced.
I couldn’t get a ticket for the return leg but I do remember vividly where I was, as my ear was glued to the radio. So the highly tense game was set up: an evening fixture at St James’ Park. I must admit to feeling a little sick as I really didn’t see us coming out of this one with a result.
The famous ‘G-Force’ of Marco Gabbiadini and Eric Gates had other ideas, yet it turned out to not only be a wonderful and memorable win for the Lads, but also one of the most disgraceful and shameful episodes in the English game. Denis Smith’s prediction that his young side would continue their great away form turned out to be accurate. The Mags boasted the best home record in the division, but we had the best away record and something was going to give!