We take a look back in time
Brian Murphy is joined on the mic by Simply Red writer, James Gorse. With United not playing for 10 days due to cup action, they instead look back to a pivotal campaign from 30 years ago. They relive all the drama, controversy and triumph from the 1995/96 season.
The summer month had seen the departures of key members of the side as Sir Alex Ferguson put all his faith in a batch of young talent coming through. Supporters were left asking questions as they saw rivals strengthen around us and potentially be left behind.
That was summed up when Aston Villa ripped us apart within 45 minutes at Villa Park. Which prompted a new infamous statement from Alan Hanson. The young reds exited to a League Two side in the Coca Cola Cup (as if that would happen today) and an embarrassing loss in Europe.
A hard fought win against Newcastle provided a spark and they were to embark on a run of form to claw back the deficit behind the leader. The Boss galvanised his troops and used the jibes to spur them on.
The return fixture at St. James Park loomed large and Sky bigged it up a must see TV. The home side cut through us at will for most of the first half and were only denied by an inspired Peter Schmeichel. That set the platform for a smash and grab Eric Cantona volley and the momentum changed.
The pressure in the run-in told and the magpies began to drop points. Fergie employed his mind games and Keegan lost his cool live on air. The title eventually arrived when we won at Middlesbrough.
The FA Cup Final came up next in a forgettable game against Liverpool. All that mattered was a volley from Eric with five minutes to go and and the double was delivered.
Small margins and all that. Fond memories!
Leave a Reply