But that didn’t stop Black Cats supporters turning out in their thousands across the streets of the city to welcome their heroes back to Sunderland!
Here, we’ve delved into the Echo archives to bring you the best photos of Sunderland fans from that day in 1992 – simply scroll down and click through the pages to take a look.
1. The Wear bridge
Were you there that day? Photo: Sunderland Echo
2. Recognise anybody?
Durham Road at the old Prospect Hotel. Photo: Sunderland Echo
3. WOW!
10 May 1992, Sunderland's FA Cup homecoming parade at Seaburn and Roker beaches. Photo: Sunderland Echo
4. Celebrating even in defeat!
Are you the girl in this picture from 1992? Photo: Sunderland Echo