Classic FA Cup Upsets: A Journey Through the Most Memorable Third-Round Shocks

The Emirates FA Cup third round is a hallmark weekend in the English football calendar. As the 2024-25 campaign is now at this crucial stage, we here at EPLNews have decided to revisit some unforgettable giant-killings that have made this competition legendary.

We all cherish our favourite FA Cup third-round stories. Whether it’s fearless underdogs challenging top-flight giants or a non-league side rattling seasoned EFL clubs, the FA Cup has gifted fans with countless iconic moments. The third round, in particular, stands out as the stage where dreams are realised and reputations are forged.

This phase marks the entry of Premier League and Championship clubs, joining teams that have often battled through multiple qualifying rounds. It’s a golden opportunity for smaller clubs to achieve glory, secure a fourth-round spot and etch their names in football folklore. Here, we dive into some of the most unforgettable FA Cup third-round upsets from history.

Sutton United 2-1 Coventry City (7 January 1989, Gander Green Lane)

Eighteen months after Coventry City lifted the FA Cup, they travelled south to face non-league Sutton United. With Coventry’s strong start to their top-flight season, few anticipated an upset. However, the magic of the FA Cup struck as Sutton United, managed by English teacher Barrie Williams, stunned the Sky Blues with goals from Tony Rains and Matthew Hanlan. This victory remains one of the competition’s most celebrated shocks.

Hereford United 2-1 Newcastle United (5 February 1972, Edgar Street)

Often regarded as the original FA Cup giant-killing, Hereford United’s victory over Newcastle United ticked every box. A bobbly pitch, inclement weather, a fervent crowd and a breathtaking goal all contributed to this classic. After a 2-2 draw at St James’ Park forced a replay, Hereford’s Ronnie Radford scored a thunderous long-range strike to equalise. Ricky George then netted the winner in extra time, immortalising the Southern League side in FA Cup history.

Shrewsbury Town 2-1 Everton (4 January 2003, Gay Meadow)

Shrewsbury Town, languishing at the bottom of the Football League, faced an Everton side brimming with talent, including a young Wayne Rooney. Nigel Jemson became the hero of the day, scoring a first-half free-kick and a last-minute header to secure the upset. The win earned Shrewsbury a fourth-round clash with Chelsea and a place in FA Cup lore.

West Bromwich Albion 2-4 Woking (5 January 1991, The Hawthorns)

Isthmian League side Woking achieved the unthinkable against Second Division West Bromwich Albion. Tim Buzaglo, a computer specialist and former cricketer, delivered a hat-trick to lead Woking to victory. Terry Worsfold added a fourth goal, capping off a stunning second-half comeback. Woking’s triumph earned them applause from the Hawthorns crowd and a fourth-round meeting with Everton.

Burnley 1-0 Liverpool (18 January 2005, Turf Moor)

This clash is remembered for its bizarre winning goal. Liverpool’s Djimi Traoré attempted an ill-fated 360-degree drag back, inadvertently scoring an own goal that sent Burnley through. Reds manager Rafa Benítez, in his first FA Cup campaign, had rested key players, giving Burnley the opening they needed to secure a famous win.

Manchester United 0-1 Leeds United (3 January 2010, Old Trafford)

Cross-Pennine rivals Manchester United and Leeds United clashed in a thrilling third-round tie. Leeds, then in League One, stunned Sir Alex Ferguson’s Premier League giants with a decisive goal from Jermain Beckford. This victory remains a cherished memory for Leeds fans and a testament to the unpredictability of the FA Cup.

Wrexham 2-1 Arsenal (4 January 1992, The Racecourse Ground)

Facing reigning league champions Arsenal, Fourth Division Wrexham pulled off a historic upset. Arsenal took the lead through Alan Smith, but veteran Mickey Thomas equalised with a spectacular 25-yard free-kick. Steve Watkin’s winning goal completed the shock, leaving Arsenal’s star-studded squad reeling.

Newport County 2-1 Leicester City (6 January 2019, Rodney Parade)

Fourth-tier Newport County stunned Premier League side Leicester City in 2019. Jamille Matt opened the scoring for Newport, but Rachid Ghezzal’s late equaliser appeared to salvage a replay for Leicester. However, Padraig Amond’s calmly converted penalty sealed a famous victory, showcasing the enduring charm of the FA Cup.

Stevenage 3-1 Newcastle United (8 January 2011, Lamex Stadium)

Stevenage became just the fourth fourth-tier team to defeat Premier League opposition, besting Newcastle United. Stacy Long’s opener and Michael Bostwick’s second goal set the tone, while Peter Winn sealed the win in injury time. Despite Joey Barton’s late goal for Newcastle, Stevenage’s achievement resonated as one of the competition’s great upsets.

Oxford United 3-2 Swansea City (10 January 2016, Kassam Stadium)

League Two Oxford United shocked Premier League Swansea City with a spirited display. After Swansea’s early lead, Oxford’s Kemar Roofe took center stage, scoring twice to inspire a thrilling victory. This upset exemplified the FA Cup’s capacity for drama and underdog triumphs.

Derby County 1-3 Bristol Rovers (6 January 2002, Pride Park)

Bristol Rovers made history by becoming the first Third Division team to defeat Premier League opposition away from home. Nathan Ellington’s hat-trick propelled Rovers past Derby County, who were struggling in the top flight. This result remains a standout moment in FA Cup annals.

Why the FA Cup Still Captivates Fans

The FA Cup’s enduring appeal lies in its unpredictability and the chance it offers smaller clubs to challenge football’s elite. These iconic third-round upsets remind us why the competition remains a beloved part of English football. Each January, fans eagerly await the possibility of witnessing another David vs Goliath story that reaffirms the magic of the FA Cup.

As we enjoy the third round of the 2024-25 season, we are eager to find out who will write the next chapter in this storied history. Football fans everywhere will be watching, hoping for another unforgettable moment that cements the FA Cup’s status as the world’s greatest knockout competition.