The 1973 FA Cup Final remains Sunderland’s last major cup win, and was sealed by Ian Porterfield’s strike to down Leeds United (although he had Jimmy Montgomery to thank after THAT double save).
And to mark the anniversary, we’ve delved deep into the archives to bring out some of the best photographs from a memorable day. Can you spot anyone you know at Wembley, or celebrating back at Roker Park?
1. Sunderland fans head to Wembley
It's not a cup final without a tin foil trophy! | JPIMedia Photo: Sunderland Echo
2. What a battle
Second division Sunderland caught everyone by surprise against giants Leeds United - and what a battle it was at Wembley. | Getty Images Photo: A. Jones
3. The Twin Towers were packed with supporters
Sunderland fans poured into the famous Wembley Stadium, hopeful of a cup upset. | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Sunderland Echo
4. GOAL!
The Whites were powerless to stop Ian Porterfield netting the winner. What a goal! | Getty Images Photo: Douglas Miller