1990 FA Cup Final: Crystal Palace's Historic Run Ends in Heartbreak

Semi-Final Triumph Sets Up Final Date With Manchester United

Crystal Palace's remarkable FA Cup run came to a heartbreaking end in the 1990 final, as they fell 3-3 to Manchester United after leading 3-2 with just seven minutes remaining. The Eagles, appearing in their first FA Cup final, had stunned Liverpool in the semi-final to set up a historic clash at Wembley.

A Tale of Two Halves

Palace began the match brightly and took the lead through Mark Bright in the 13th minute. However, United responded with two goals from Mark Hughes and Brian McClair to take a 2-1 lead into half-time. Palace fought back in the second half, with Ian Wright and Gary O'Reilly scoring to put them 3-2 ahead.

Just when it seemed like Palace were on the verge of a famous victory, United struck twice in quick succession. Lee Martin equalized in the 83rd minute, and then substitute Mark Robins scored the winning goal two minutes later to dash Palace's dreams.