The day Luton made a fool out of Arsenal

Arsenal boss at the time George Graham was widely tipped to retain the trophy after having triumphed against Liverpool in the previous year. Yet, Graham was to be without his star defender David O'Leary due to an achilles tendon injury.

Luton striker Mick Harford said: ''For me, O'Leary is the Arsenal defence. He organises everything. I was delighted when I heard he wasn't playing, because he is so important to them.''

With O'Leary unable to play, Gus Caesar was selected as his replacement, in a decision that would ultimately prove dismal. The youngster had shown little promise having almost handed Watford a 1-0 win against Arsenal in their previous match.

Luton were also struck with several injuries, having been missing their first-choice goalkeeper, Les Sealey and with several other players making shaky returns following injury. 

Ahead of the fixture, there were very few previews that expected Luton to even threaten Arsenal. Steve Curry wrote in 'The Express': ''All the pointers suggest the game might be as one-sided as a bout between the Christians and the lions.''

He was supported by Johnny Giles who added: ''This line-up has too much strength and ability for Luton.'' However, despite having gained little faith from the pundits, Luton went on the secure a historic victory and in the process handed Arsenal a humbling. 

Brian Stein put Luton ahead in the 13th minute, before Arsenal pushed in front in the second half with an equaliser from Martin Hayes followed by a goal from Alan Smith just three minutes later.

But it was in the final stages of the match that a defensive error from Caesar allowed Danny Wilson to break free and net the equaliser for Luton. A 90th minute score from Stein again, was to secure a 3-2 victory over the Gunners and earn their spot in the history books.