In the 1977 FA Cup Final Liverpool had the chance to achieve a rare treble of trophies. The Football League title was theirs and European Cup was already in the Anfield trophy room but Tommy Docherty’s Manchester United would spoil the party by defeating them in the Cup Final.

Following their shock loss to Southampton in the previous Cup Final the Red Devils were slight underdogs this time around having finished the League season in 6th place 10 points behind Liverpool. Manchester United won the toss and earned the right to wear their traditional red jerseys while Liverpool were forced to play in their white away shirts.

The first half was goalless despite both sides passing well and producing quality lead-up work that didn’t translate into any real chances. The closest either side came to scoring was when Liverpool’s Ray Kennedy headed a ball towards the goal only for Alec Stepney to save unconvincingly with his foot.

The second half was just five minutes old when the game came to life with an incredible 6 minute period when 3 goals were scored. Stuart Pearson started the scoring when he collected a pass from Sammy McIlroy and slotted his shot past Liverpool keeper Ray Clemence.

The lead lasted just two minutes when Joey Jones made a great run down the left side of the pitch and crossed to a waiting Jimmy Case who made an awkward chance into a half-volley which swept passed Stepney and into the top corner of the goal.

Three minutes later Manchester United were back in the lead when Jimmy Greenhoff deflected a shot from Lou Macari into the Liverpool goal. It may have been scrappy but it still counted and ultimately it was the last score of the match and Manchester United had their fourth FA Cup.

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