Southampton reached the FA Cup final for the first time since their triumphant victory over Manchester United in the 1977 final. Arsenal was what stood between Southampton and the FA Cup trophy; however the Gunners beat them 1-0 in what proved to be a very poor final. A first half goal by Robert Pires ensured victory for Arsenal who were lucky to be in the final as they narrowly beat Sheffield United in the semi finals.
Dennis Wise enjoyed FA Cup success in 1988 with Wimbledon and he had the opportunity once again as he led his team, Mill wall, to the FA Cup final against Manchester United. Wise was player manager of Mill Walla and selected himself for play. After containing United for the early stages of the match, Ruud Van Nistlerooy scored and it was one was traffic from there on. Christiano Ronaldo added a second and Van Nistlerooy sealed victory with his second and Uniteds third.
United were once again in the final in 2005, this time meeting Arsenal. United dominated the match but was unable to find the back of the net. The match was forced into penalties and Arsenal won the shoot out.
West Ham met Liverpool in what proved to be a classic cup final in 2006. They took an early two goal lead which included a stunning goal by Dean Ashton. Cisse pulled a goal back for the Reds immedialty after before Gerrard equalized for Liverpool. Konchesky put West Ham ahead again mid way through the second half, however in the dying seconds, Gerrard scored from 25 yards out to force the game into extra time. With the score line still 3-3 it went to penalties, which Liverpool won.