On This Day: Barnsley v Newcastle United - 23 April 1910

FA Cup Final
Date: 23 April 1910
Venue: Crystal Palace, London
Attendance: 77,747

Reds on the Big Stage

It was the day when the Reds stepped onto the grand stage at Crystal Palace, London, for their first-ever FA Cup Final, facing off against the formidable Newcastle United. An astonishing crowd of 77,747 fans packed the stadium, eager to witness Barnsley's bid for footballing glory.

Early Exchanges

Barnsley, unchanged from their stirring semi-final victory against Everton, immediately set their sights on the Geordies’ goal. Boyle and Forman's early exchanges hinted at Barnsley's attacking intent, though initial forays brought little joy. At the other end, Reds keeper Fred Mearns showed resilience under pressure, notably keeping out a sharp effort from Shepherd to keep the scoreline blank.

Tufnell's Moment of Magic

But it was Barnsley who found the breakthrough first. In the 38th minute, after skilful build-up play involving Downs, Bartrop, and Gadsby, Harry Tufnell delivered a clinical finish past the helpless Newcastle keeper Lawrence. It was a moment of sheer delight for the travelling Barnsley faithful.

Late Controversy

Newcastle, however, weren't about to roll over. With only eight minutes left, controversy arrived. Higgins floated a hopeful ball forward that Rutherford expertly headed home. Barnsley’s defenders stood aghast, adamant the Newcastle man was clearly offside. Despite fierce protests, referee Mr Ibbotson stood firm. The goal stood, leaving the Reds crestfallen as the match ended 1-1, ensuring a replay at Goodison Park.

Barnsley 1 Newcastle United 1
Goals: Tufnell (38') | Rutherford (82')

Replay Heartbreak

In the replay days later at Goodison Park, Newcastle emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, but Barnsley’s astonishing journey etched the club's name proudly into football folklore. Upon returning home, the Reds were met by throngs of supporters filling the streets of Barnsley, eager to salute their heroes. Reverend Preedy, the club's founding father, summed up the occasion perfectly, writing proudly of a team undeterred by adversity, driven purely by a passion for the game.

Barnsley might not have lifted the Cup in 1910, but the Reds' remarkable achievement had well and truly placed them firmly on the footballing map.

Team Lineups

Barnsley: Mearns, Downs, Ness, Glendenning, Boyle, Utley, Bartrop, Gadsby, Lillycrop, Tufnell, Forman.
Newcastle United: Lawrence, McCracken, Whitsun, Veitch, Low, McWilliam, Rutherford, Howie, Shepherd, Higgins, Wilson.