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Crystal Palace’s FA Cup Memories: Insights from 1990 Captain Geoff Thomas, Alan Smith, and Pape Souaré
Relive Crystal Palace’s FA Cup journey through the eyes of key figures like Geoff Thomas, the 1990 captain, assistant manager Alan Smith, and defender Pape Souaré. This article captures their memories and perspectives on those pivotal moments, from overcoming challenges to experiencing heartbreak and the enduring bond with the club.
Geoff Thomas: Recollections from the 1990 FA Cup Final
A Captain’s Perspective: Crystal Palace vs Manchester United
Palace 3-3 Manchester United (aet); Replay: Palace 0-1 United
“Being captain of that team was a distinct honor. After enduring a 9-0 defeat to Liverpool earlier that season, overcoming them in the semi-final felt like a significant achievement. Alan Pardew’s winning goal at Villa Park instilled a belief that we could face any challenge with confidence,” recalls Thomas.
Thomas notes the team’s rigorous preparation, “Many teams ease off towards the season’s end, but Steve Coppell and Alan Smith intensified our training after the semi-final, almost like a pre-season. We were exceptionally confident in our physical readiness.”
Beyond the Pitch: The FA Cup Final Experience
The FA Cup final brought a whirlwind of activity, as Thomas recalls, “After the semi-final, Eric Hall arranged various activities. Some teammates appeared on Blue Peter, while I attended a pre-Cup final dinner with the Duke of Edinburgh and Bryan Robson. I’d rather not discuss our singing performance on Sky – it was quite embarrassing to sing in front of a live TV audience.”
Reflecting on the final itself, Thomas laments, “We were within minutes of lifting the Cup after Ian Wright’s extra-time goal. It felt like a script for a victorious film. However, Mark Hughes’ late goal altered that narrative.”
Recalling the replay, Thomas adds, “Bryan Robson claimed we were overly physical, but they matched our intensity. A foul on me in the box resulted in a free-kick just outside the area, a decision I still remember vividly.”
An Enduring Connection to Crystal Palace
“Despite my Manchester roots, Crystal Palace holds a special place in my heart. Since joining in 1987, I’ve felt deeply connected to the club. The club’s support during my leukemia diagnosis in 2003 was unforgettable,” Thomas says.
He expresses optimism for the future, “I observe the same camaraderie in the current squad that we shared. We reveled in defeating stronger teams. While the team eventually disbanded, I hope Palace can build on their progress. I believe they have the potential to create history.”
Alan Smith: Remembering the 1990 FA Cup Run as Assistant Manager
Building a Team from Scratch
“When I joined in 1984, Palace had limited resources. Steve Coppell deserves immense credit for the team’s achievements. We prioritized fitness, with rigorous training sessions involving hill runs at Farleigh Downs. The players’ willingness to follow Steve’s guidance was crucial,” Smith explains.
Pioneering Video Analysis Techniques
Smith emphasizes innovation, “We were among the first to use video analysis. Vince Craven, previously at Wimbledon, implemented this, incorporating humor to maintain player engagement. His approach significantly improved our attacking set plays.”
The Eric Hall Effect
“Eric Hall organized everything for the players, including suits and sunglasses. Ironically, rain prevented them from wearing the sunglasses. However, Eric still managed to procure umbrellas,” Smith recounts.
The Talismanic Impact of Ian Wright
Speaking about the final, Smith remembers, “Manchester United faced intense pressure. Beating Liverpool in the semis and scoring four goals without Ian Wright was remarkable. He was our talisman, capable of scoring decisive goals. In the final, his introduction proved impactful, scoring two goals. His performance attracted interest from other clubs.”
“We finished third the following season before Wright’s departure. Failure to qualify for Europe affected Steve deeply. We struggled to retain players who felt they had achieved all they could at Palace,” Smith adds.
“Sitting alongside Steve at Wembley, I feel Palace has a genuine opportunity. Their recent form suggests they are peaking at the right time,” Smith concludes optimistically.
Pape Souaré: The 2016 FA Cup Final Experience
A Tight-Knit Family
Palace 1-2 Manchester United
“The dressing room atmosphere was exceptional, like a close-knit family. There was a shared desire within the community for Palace to succeed,” says Souaré. “Reaching the final after beating Watford in the semi-final was exhilarating, complete with custom-made suits.”
Remembering Pardew’s Dance
“Everyone recalls Alan Pardew’s celebration after Jason Puncheon’s goal. It stemmed from a corner routine practiced in training. Pardew often spoke about his semi-final goal against Liverpool, mirroring his celebration. It highlighted our strong bond with him,” Souaré shares.
Pardew’s Influence
Souaré reflects on Pardew’s impact, “Alan fostered confidence and camaraderie, consistently checking on my family and helping me settle in. He also aided my English language skills. He instilled the confidence to preform on the pitch.”
“I believed we would win after Punch scored. But it’s football, and sometimes you must accept defeat. I hope they can now secure a victory against City. That would bring me immense joy,” Souaré expresses.
Overcoming Adversity
“After the final, a car accident sidelined me for nearly two years. I’m grateful to have recovered and resumed playing. I maintain contact with the chairman, Steve Parish, and value his advice. The support from the fans aided my recovery. I was proud to be the first Senegalese player for Palace. Seeing Palace shirts back home fills me with pride.”