Match Report: Manchester United 1–1 Stoke City (Football League Division One – 24 March 1969, Old Trafford)
Manchester United were held to a frustrating 1–1 draw by Stoke City at Old Trafford, denied by a superb display from England goalkeeper Gordon Banks and a late equaliser against the run of play.
United dominated for long periods and eventually broke through in the second half. Brian Kidd struck the crossbar with a close-range effort, and as John Aston followed in, a deflection off a Stoke defender sent the ball into the net for an own goal.
Despite controlling possession and carving out several chances — most notably through George Best — United couldn’t add a second. Banks produced a string of outstanding saves, including two from Best that drew gasps from the Stretford End.
United thought they had doubled the lead when Carlo Sartori set up a finish that was turned in, but the goal was ruled out after the linesman flagged for a foul by Jimmy Rimmer, brought on at half-time in goal.
With just five minutes remaining, Willie Stevenson levelled for Stoke, stabbing home from close range after a rare attacking spell.
United were left ruing missed chances and Banks’ heroics. The result added to their inconsistent league form as the season drew to a close.
Final Score: Manchester United 1–1 Stoke City
Goals:
– Own Goal (Stoke, from Aston rebound)
– 85′ – Willie Stevenson (Stoke City)
Referee: R. Tinkler
Attendance: 39,931
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
