'First time I saw my Dad cry' - Sunderland fans share fantastic memories on anniversary of 1973 FA Cup win

On this day in 1973, Sunderland triumphed over Leeds United in the FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium.
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The Black Cats, then in the Second Division, defeated top-flight Leeds United in one of the biggest sporting shocks in football history.

And to celebrate the anniversary, we asked Sunderland Echo readers to share their memories, stories and recollections from that famous day.

Here’s what you said on Facebook and Twitter:

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 05:  Sunderland captain Bobby Kerr lifts the FA Cup after Sunderland had beaten Leeds United 1-0 to win the 1973 FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on May 5, 1973 in London, England.  (Photo by Don Morley/Allsport/Getty Images)LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 05:  Sunderland captain Bobby Kerr lifts the FA Cup after Sunderland had beaten Leeds United 1-0 to win the 1973 FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on May 5, 1973 in London, England.  (Photo by Don Morley/Allsport/Getty Images)
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 05: Sunderland captain Bobby Kerr lifts the FA Cup after Sunderland had beaten Leeds United 1-0 to win the 1973 FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on May 5, 1973 in London, England. (Photo by Don Morley/Allsport/Getty Images)
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Leslie Yeo: “It was Monty's destiny to win a major trophy after being constantly overlooked and cheated out of full England honours. All that goalkeeping talent was eventually rewarded.”

Harry Scott: “The memory goes back to the brilliant save by our goalkeeper Jim Montgomery and our captain the little general lifting the cup which no one expected, a great day.”

Lin Easom: “I was 14. Our lounge was full, sitting round TV. My Dad on his knees pleading for final whistle. First time I saw my Dad cry. Phone ringing with congrats. Impromptu party. I remember it like yesterday. We live in Nottingham but everyone shared our joy.”

Diann Burns: “I was there all the way from Somerset, even called our dog Montgomery (Monty).”

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@steveosafc: “Remember it like Yesterday leaving Hetton at Midnight on the Friday getting back Home on Sunday Afternoon all as a 16 year old.”

@tonymcleannet: “How can that have been 48 years ago it was only yesterday wasn't it. I missed going as I was in hospital and had to be sedated after watching it on TV as I jumped around so much I caused further injury. what a great day though.”

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