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.
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.
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.
Here is a look back at some of the celebrations and scenes from that victory.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel