16th March 2002
On this day in 2002, a remarkable event unfolded in the Football League during a First Division match between West Bromwich Albion (WBA) and Sheffield United. The match was abandoned due to an unprecedented situation where Sheffield United were reduced to just six players. This occurred after a series of sendings off and injuries left them with fewer than the minimum number of players required to continue the game. At the time of abandonment, WBA were leading 3-0, and this scoreline was allowed to stand as the final result. This incident remains a unique occurrence in the history of the Football League.
In the Premier League, the same day marked a significant moment for Everton Football Club as they played their first match under newly appointed manager David Moyes. Moyes had taken over the managerial role just two days prior, following a challenging period for the club under former manager Walter Smith. Everton had managed only one victory in their previous 13 league matches, scoring a mere six goals during that stretch, which had left them perilously close to the relegation zone.
The atmosphere at Goodison Park was charged with anticipation as the PA announcer declared, “Remember this date, 16th March 2002, because the good times are coming back to Goodison Park.” The match against Fulham began with a promising start for Everton, as David Unsworth scored the opening goal just 30 seconds into the game. The team quickly doubled their lead within the first 12 minutes, setting the tone for a much-needed victory. This win marked the beginning of a turnaround for Everton, who managed to pull clear of the relegation positions under Moyes’ leadership.
David Moyes’ tenure at Everton proved to be a successful one, as he remained at the helm for 11 years. His time at the club eventually led to a high-profile move to Manchester United in 2013, where he succeeded the legendary Alex Ferguson upon his retirement from Old Trafford.