Memories sparked by FA Cup victory

But few realise that it is only the fifth time in the last 38 years that City have got this far in the world's greatest cup competition.

City, who now meet Third Division Torquay United on November 14, have a fine record on the occasions they have battled through to the first round.

And no result was more impressive than their 2-0 win over Torquay's Devon neighbours Plymouth Argyle at St George's Lane in 1978-79.

Plymouth, then in the old Third Division and managed by the flamboyant Malcolm Allison, were no match for a crack City side who won the Southern League title that season under the management of Nobby Clark.

Goals from Malcolm Phelps and Jimmy Williams gave City their first Football League scalp since their famous victory over Liverpool 20 years earlier.

Four years later, the boot was on the other foot as City, then in the Alliance League, faced a tricky trip to Northern Premier League side Macclesfield Town.

But they made no mistake with a 5-1 victory, thanks to a hat-trick from current City coach Micky Tuohy and two goals from Paul Moss, and went on to beat Wrexham in the following round before defeat at First Division Coventry City.

Twelve months later Moss was the hero as City beat Fourth Division Aldershot -- their last victory over a League side to date.

He scored in a 1-1 draw at the Recreation Ground and then got both goals as City won a home replay 2-1.

City's only subsequent first round appearance was in 1987-88. A Steve Fergusson goal could not prevent a 1-1 draw with Yeovil Town, then in the Isthmian League, at St George's Lane, and City went down in the replay to a single goal from future Scotland striker John McGinlay.

City play their first Dr Martens League Premier Division game for a month on Saturday when they visit bottom club Dorchester Town.

Next Monday City entertain Bilston Town in a Dr Martens Cup first round, first leg tie.

Wednesday, November 4, 1998.