Background: United’s previous visit to Maine Road, in September 1989, had ended in an infamous 5-1 defeat to Manchester City in what was arguably the nadir of Alex Ferguson’s early years at Old Trafford. Mark Hughes netted United’s goal that day and, 13 months later, with the Reds up against it once more in the Manchester derby, the Welshman was at it again.
The goal: United were 2-0 down following a David White brace for the hosts with half-time looming, when Denis Irwin sent an in-swinging free-kick towards the penalty spot. Though tightly marked, Hughes managed to wriggle free before soaring high and planting an unstoppable header into the back of Tony Coton’s net.