Jeff Thomas (Captain, Crystal Palace, 1990)
Palace 3-3 Manchester United (AET); Replay: Palace 0-1 United
Being captain during that period was something quite special. Early in the season, we faced a tough loss against Liverpool, losing 9-0. But when Alain Paldew netted the winner at Villa Park, it gave us newfound confidence, especially after making it past them in the semi-finals.
Once you reach this part of the season, things tend to slow down since many teams aren’t playing as often. Our manager, Steve Coppell, and assistant Alan Smith really cranked up our preparations after those semi-finals—it felt almost like a preseason. We played on Saturday, rested Sunday, and then had a long training session on Monday. Physically, we were in great shape.
After winning the semi-finals, I was fully aware of what the FA Cup final meant. Eric Hall, our agent, organized a bunch of activities for us. There were appearances on Blue Peter, but I missed that event since I was at a Precup Final Dinner with the Duke of Edinburgh and captain Brian Robson. Don’t even ask about our rather embarrassing Sky appearance where we attempted to sing Glad All Over—I remember giving instructions to John Salako and Gary O’Reilly. That was quite the experience!
Looking back, it’s frustrating because Ian Wright was seven minutes away from lifting the cup after scoring in extra time. It felt like a movie ending where we would have claimed one of the biggest honors in the sport. Instead, we were beaten by a team we had previously suffered that heavy loss to. It’s just sad. It really was a pivotal moment in history, brought about by Mark Hughes.
Brian Robson talked about how they pushed us hard during the replay, but I remember the match being just as physical on our end. I think it was Brian McClair who tripped me in the box, yet I got a free kick. You could actually see the divots in the area—it’s a memory that’s stuck with me.
I grew up in Manchester as a City supporter. Playing against them was especially exciting for me; my whole family were devoted fans. But now, as a professional player, Crystal Palace is my club. I’ve felt a deep connection since joining in 1987. I’ll never forget the support I received when I was diagnosed with leukemia in 2003.
You can see similar camaraderie among today’s players, many of whom were there under Steve’s guidance back in the day. We reveled in taking down the bigger teams. It’s unfortunate that Crystal Palace wasn’t big enough to retain talents like Ian Wright and Mark Bright, leading to their teams falling apart. But I hope things change, and the club can build on the progress they’ve made under Oliver Glasner. I really wish they find some luck this Saturday. Like us back in 1990, they shouldn’t be afraid. The city has quality, but so do the Palaces. I hope they can create some history.
Alan Smith (Assistant Manager, 1990)
When we arrived in 1984, Palace was struggling. Steve Coppell deserves so much credit for what the team achieved. He was quite the fitness enthusiast, and we put in a lot of work. There’s a spot called Farry Downs—a hill we often ran, and the young players had to make it up eight times. It was tough, but they were all on board with it, because of the respect they had for Steve.
He was among the first to use video analysis in coaching. We had this guy, Vince Craven, from Wimbledon, who was way ahead of his time. He would curate clips with humor, keeping players engaged. It was really beneficial for us in understanding our attacking strategies.
Eric Hall took care of the players’ needs, from gear to shades. Unfortunately, on the day of the final, I was so caught up in the rain an hour before kickoff that I missed the chance to wear my gear. But somehow, Eric found 20 umbrellas for us!
United faced immense pressure because Alex Ferguson knew they had to win. Defeating Liverpool in the semi-finals was a huge feat, especially since we did that without Ian Wright, who was out with a broken leg. He was like our good luck charm. We had won matches when he pulled off miraculous goals, similar to what Eberechi Eze does now. In the final, Steve put him on the pitch earlier than expected and said, “Do we have to do this?” He was like a coiled spring, ready to go. Ultimately, Hughes equalized, and they won the replay, but Ian’s performance generated interest from other clubs.
The following season, he finished third before joining Arsenal. Not qualifying for Europe hit Steve hard; after putting in so much effort since 1984, it was challenging to keep players interested. Some began to ponder, “What more can we achieve at Palace?”
I sat next to Steve at Wembley on that Saturday, and I felt we had a genuine shot. You can’t help but think that it’s their third chance, and they seem to be finding their rhythm again at just the right time…
Pape Souaré (Palace Defender, 2016)
Palace 1-2 Manchester United
In the dressing room, it really felt like a family. Everyone in the community had their hopes set on Palace reaching the top tier. I recall being so thrilled when we beat Watford in the semi-finals to secure our spot in the final. We had custom suits made for the day; it felt so special.
Everyone still talks about Alan Pardew’s joyful dance when Jason Puncheon scored after coming off the bench. It stemmed from a corner—something we practiced, and he said before the match, “This is how we’ll score.” It showcased just how close we all were to him.
Alan had a knack for being involved with us and boosting our confidence. When we were on the pitch, you wanted to give it your all for him. He’d check in on my family, ensuring I was doing well, and he even helped me with my English. I owe a lot of my language skills to him.
When Puncheon scored, we felt we could really secure the win. But soccer can be unpredictable. We’re a close-knit group, and I hope they can clinch a victory against City. That would genuinely make me incredibly happy.
After the final, I was involved in a car accident that sidelined me for nearly two years. I was lucky to recover and get back on the pitch. I still stay in touch with the chairman, Steve Parish, who gives me advice. I feel a strong connection to those still involved, and the support from fans played a huge role in my recovery. I’m very grateful for that. Being the first player from Senegal to represent Palace is a source of pride for me, and whenever I’m home, I see Palace shirts everywhere.
