Stokoe’s Stars didn’t just win the FA Cup in 1973, they did so in the most fabulous fairy-tale fashion.
A team languishing near the bottom of the second tier six months earlier were transformed following the arrival of new manager Bob Stokoe. Suddenly Sunderland became capable of sensationally defeating the very best teams in the country. Cup favourites Manchester City were beaten in a fifth round replay voted ‘Match of the Century’ when Roker Park closed in 1997. Arsenal were denied a third successive final after they were beaten in the semi-final as Stokoe was dubbed ‘The Messiah.’
Cup holders Leeds were so good that taking them on at Wembley was like playing Liverpool or Manchester City now. Outside of Wearside Sunderland were seen as the most doubtful of underdogs, but in the North East, cup fever hit new highs. Everyone felt Sunderland would win and they did! Ian Porterfield’s goal, Monty’s magical double-save, Ritchie Pitt’s first minute ‘tackle’ on England’s Allan Clarke and Stokoe’s surging final whistle run to Monty are moments indelibly printed in the minds of Sunderland supporters.
Come with us on Friday 5 May 2023 and celebrate the final anniversary reunion of Sunderland’s greatest post-war team. Every surviving member of this magnificent side have agreed to attend while the families of the dear departed Bob Stokoe, Ian Porterfield and Billy Hughes will also be represented. The 73@fifty Gala Dinner is planned to be the farewell public get together of these legendary players. Do not miss your chance to pay tribute to some of the all-time greats of red and white history.
UPDATE: Tables at this event are now SOLD OUT. For more information, please contact hospitality@safc.com.