Watford have reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup seven times in their history. The fourth time it happened was 21 years ago – and its importance stretched beyond being one match away from a Wembley final.

The 2002/03 season was very difficult. The Hornets had narrowly avoided administration in the autumn but the club’s future was still bleak, with several players already told they would be released long before the end of the season.

Watford’s cup run provided a vital shot in the financial arm and on Sunday, March 9, 2003 more than 20,000 fans packed into Vicarage Road to watch Ray Lewington’s men face Burnley for place in the last four.

Watford Observer: Hundreds of yellow, red and black balloons were released before the gameHundreds of yellow, red and black balloons were released before the game (Image: Action Images)

The first hour was largely poor but after Heidar Helguson and Tommy Smith had both gone close, the crucial breakthrough arrived 16 minutes from time when a Neal Ardley corner fell to Gavin Mahon and helped it on to Smith to scramble over the line.

Watford Observer: Young fans had their faces painted for the gameYoung fans had their faces painted for the game (Image: Action Images)

It wasn’t a particularly memorable goal but Watford’s second six minutes later was, Stephen Glass scoring a superb free-kick to secure his side’s place in the semi-finals.

Watford Observer: The breakthrough arrives as Tommy Smith turns the ball into the netThe breakthrough arrives as Tommy Smith turns the ball into the net (Image: Action Images)

Here is a look back at some of the celebrations and scenes from that victory.

Watford Observer: Hornets fans celebrate as Smith runs to the RookeryHornets fans celebrate as Smith runs to the Rookery (Image: Action Images)

Watford Observer: A jubilant Smith celebrates in front of the RookeryA jubilant Smith celebrates in front of the Rookery (Image: Action Images)Watford Observer: Neal Ardley is challenged by Paul CookNeal Ardley is challenged by Paul Cook (Image: Action Images)

Watford Observer: One Hornets fan keen to make the most of the occasionOne Hornets fan keen to make the most of the occasion (Image: Action Images)

Watford Observer: Watford fans getting right behind their teamWatford fans getting right behind their team (Image: Action Images)

Watford Observer: Stephen Glass curls his free-kick towards the far corner of the netStephen Glass curls his free-kick towards the far corner of the net (Image: Action Images)

Watford Observer: Glass punches the air in delight as a jubilant Jamie Hand runs over to celebrate with the scorer of Watford's second goalGlass punches the air in delight as a jubilant Jamie Hand runs over to celebrate with the scorer of Watford's second goal (Image: Action Images)

Watford Observer: Gifton Noel-Williams, Micah Hyde and Gavin Mahon join the celebrationsGifton Noel-Williams, Micah Hyde and Gavin Mahon join the celebrations (Image: Action Images)

Watford Observer: Micah Hyde salutes the crowd at full timeMicah Hyde salutes the crowd at full time (Image: Action Images)

Watford Observer: Captain Neil Cox and Gavin Mahon applaud the Hornets faithfulCaptain Neil Cox and Gavin Mahon applaud the Hornets faithful (Image: Action Images)

Watford Observer: A day to remember for Hornets fansA day to remember for Hornets fans (Image: Action Images)