1989 - 1990: The turning point of Fergie's reign
Another poor showing in League was forgetten as United lifted the FA Cup in 1990. There wasn't one home tie as the Reds battled to Wembley for the first time since 1985. The turning point of the season and possibly of Alex Ferguson's reign at Old Trafford came with a narrow 1:0 quarter-final win over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, many believing Mark Robins' solitary goal saved Ferguson from the sack.
Any threat of Ferguson losing his job was ended after two memorable meetings with Crystal Palace in the final. A pulsating 3-3 draw, with Hughes scoring twice and Robson scoring, was followed by a 1-0 replay win; full-back Lee Martin scoring the winning goal for United.
In the League United finished 13th, the lowest position since Alex Ferguson's arrival, having suffered 16 defeats and a goal average of -1 (47-48). In the League Cup United were knocked out in the third round. Denis Irwin moved from Oldham Athletic shortly after the end of the season
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