History of the FA Cup in the FA's lawbook. The 1981 final contained what many consider to be the greatest ever final goal, scored by Tottenham's Ricky Villa who beat several players in a mazy run before slotting the ball home. In 1999, Ryan Giggs of Manchester United scored in extra time to defeat Arsenal 2–1 in FA Cup semi-final replay. The goal was voted the greatest in FA Cup history in 2003. History of the FA Cup The history of the FA Cup in association football dates back to 1871–72. Aside from suspensions during the First and Second World Wars, the competition has been
1922 FA Cup Final occurred outside the penalty area. 1922 FA Cup Final The 1922 FA Cup Final was contested by Huddersfield Town and Preston North End at Stamford Bridge. Huddersfield won by a single goal, a penalty scored by Billy Smith. This was the last final before the opening of Wembley Stadium, and was also Huddersfield's first and only FA Cup triumph. Preston goalkeeper James Mitchell was the first (and only) player ever to wear spectacles in an FA Cup Final. This was the first final to be decided by a penalty kick and the award of it was controversial, confirmed by newsreel