The League Cup winners faced Wolves at Maine Road on this day (20 March) in 1976. The game looked like a certain defeat – or at best a draw – for most of the match with Wolves dominating the early stages and even a Dennis Tueart scissor kick was unable to find the net (saved by goalkeeper Phil Parkes). Wolves took the lead via a low shot from future Blue Steve Daley in the 29th minute.
The second half saw City play with more fluidity and came close to scoring when 17-year-old debutant Gary Owen fired in a low shot following a free kick. Parkes managed a good save at the foot of the post. Eight minutes into the half City did equalise through another young player, Ged Keegan.
After 81 minutes Wolves took the lead again with a Kindon header. Three minutes later a handling offence in the area gave City a penalty which Tueart blasted past Parkes to equalise.
Only a minute later, and with the game entering its final five minutes, Mike Doyle stormed in to head City in front, making it 3-2. The victory for Tony Book’s side was a little harsh on Wolves, particularly after some excellent saves from Parkes, but it demonstrated the never-say-die attitude that seemed to be a key feature of City at this time.
Post match much of the talk was on City’s final flourish, but journalist Peter Gardner was also keen to write about Gary Owen, claiming: ‘Owen provided one of the most startling League debuts I have ever seen… he is essentially an exciting player with abundant flair and ability. He shows too, a crispness in the tackle that comes from a stocky build reminiscent of an early Ball or Bremner. Doubtless his display exceeded the expectations of many as City rallied after the break to come up on the post and snatch victory from the grasp of a Wolves side ready to celebrate.’
You can read more on the 1975-76 season with this 5,320 word article – a season which saw Tony Book guide the club to major success. If you want to know more on this incredible decade for Manchester City Football Club then why not subscribe and read it all? You could even subscribe for a month and see what you think. The following 5,320 word article is on the 1975-76 season and is available to subscribers below. Enjoy!
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