15th October 1887
On this day, one of the most remarkable scorelines in the history of the FA Cup was recorded. Preston North End defeated Hyde United 26-0 in a First Round tie at Deepdale. This match not only set the record for the highest score in the FA Cup but also remains the highest score in a senior match in England. During that season, Preston North End were a dominant force, participating in eight FA Cup matches (one of which was declared void) and scoring a total of 56 goals. Jimmy Ross was a standout performer, contributing 20 goals to the tally, with eight of those coming in the match against Hyde United. Despite their impressive run, Preston North End’s confidence was misplaced in the final, where they were defeated 2-1 by West Bromwich Albion. Legend has it that before the final, they requested to have their picture taken with the FA Cup, to which referee Major Marindin remarked, “Had you better not win it first?”
15th October 1892
On this day, Manchester United, then known as Newton Heath, played their seventh match of the 1892/93 Football League season. The team, referred to as the Heathens, had a challenging start to their League membership, failing to secure a victory in their first six First Division matches. This difficult period included a heavy 6-0 defeat at the hands of Everton. However, in their seventh match, Newton Heath hosted Wolverhampton Wanderers at their North Road ground in Newton Heath and achieved a resounding 10-1 victory. This result remains significant as it is still the highest number of goals scored by Manchester United in a League match and the worst goals conceded by Wolves in their League history. Despite this remarkable win, Newton Heath only managed to secure five more League victories throughout the 1892/93 season and ultimately finished at the bottom of the table.