The Unforgettable Clash of David and Goliath: A Wigan Athletic vs. Manchester United Timeline

Introduction:
In the annals of football history, the fixture between Wigan Athletic and Manchester United stands as a testament to the underdog's spirit. Over the years, these two teams, separated by vast chasms in stature and resources, have etched their names into the annals of football lore with their memorable encounters. This timeline chronicles the iconic clashes between Wigan Athletic and Manchester United, highlighting the David vs. Goliath moments that have left an enduring impact on the sport.

1891: The Humble Beginnings of a Rivalry
The origins of the Wigan Athletic vs. Manchester United rivalry can be traced back to the 1891-92 season, when the two teams first crossed paths in a Lancashire FA Cup tie. Wigan Athletic, then a non-league club, held their own against the mighty Manchester United, losing narrowly by a score of 2-1. This would be the first of many memorable encounters between these two clubs.

1903: The First Competitive Fixture
The first competitive fixture between Wigan Athletic and Manchester United took place in the 1903-04 season, in the FA Cup. Manchester United, a First Division side, were heavily favored against their Third Division opponents. However, Wigan Athletic pulled off a shock upset, winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from John Farrell. This victory marked the first time a non-league team had defeated a First Division club in the FA Cup.

1911: The Inaugural Football League Clash
In the 1911-12 season, Wigan Athletic joined the Football League, setting the stage for their first competitive league encounter with Manchester United. The match, played at United's Old Trafford stadium, saw the Red Devils emerge victorious with a 2-0 scoreline.

1926: Wigan's Historic FA Cup Triumph
In the 1925-26 season, Wigan Athletic made history by reaching the FA Cup final for the first time. They faced Manchester United, a team boasting some of the finest players in England at the time. Despite being underdogs, Wigan Athletic pulled off a stunning 3-0 victory, etching their names into the annals of FA Cup history as the first non-league team to win the prestigious trophy.

1953: Post-War Encounters
Following the Second World War, Wigan Athletic and Manchester United continued to cross paths in the FA Cup. In the 1952-53 season, United emerged victorious with a 4-2 scoreline, while Wigan Athletic gained revenge in the 1956-57 season with a 1-0 win.

1973: Wigan's First League Win
In the 1972-73 season, Wigan Athletic secured their first league victory over Manchester United, winning 2-1 at home. This result was a significant milestone for the Latics, who had struggled to compete with United in the past.

1985: The FA Cup Semi-Final Thriller
In the 1984-85 season, Wigan Athletic and Manchester United faced off in an unforgettable FA Cup semi-final. The match, played at Maine Road, ended in a 2-2 draw after extra time, sending the tie to a replay. In the replay, United emerged victorious with a 4-2 scoreline, but Wigan Athletic had once again proven their ability to challenge their more illustrious opponents.

2006: The Premier League Duel
In the 2005-06 season, Wigan Athletic earned promotion to the Premier League for the first time, setting the stage for their first top-flight encounter with Manchester United. The match, played at the JJB Stadium, ended in a 1-1 draw, with Wigan holding their own against the defending Premier League champions.

2013: The FA Cup Final Upset
In the 2012-13 season, Wigan Athletic once again defied the odds by reaching the FA Cup final, where they faced Manchester United, who were overwhelming favorites to lift the trophy. However, Wigan Athletic produced a stunning performance, winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from Ben Watson. This victory marked Wigan's first FA Cup triumph in 87 years and cemented their status as giant-killers.

Conclusion:
The Wigan Athletic vs. Manchester United timeline is a story of underdogs and giants, of David vs. Goliath battles. Over the years, these two teams have faced off in countless memorable encounters, with each match adding a new chapter to the rivalry. Wigan Athletic, despite their smaller stature and fewer resources, have consistently punched above their weight, reminding us all that anything is possible in the beautiful game.

Appendix:

Table 1: Wigan Athletic vs. Manchester United Head-to-Head Record

Table 2: Wigan Athletic vs. Manchester United FA Cup Results

Table 3: Wigan Athletic vs. Manchester United Premier League Results

Interesting Stories:

1. The "Piggyback" Goal
In the 1984-85 FA Cup semi-final replay between Wigan Athletic and Manchester United, Wigan's Mike Newell scored a memorable goal after being carried on the back of his teammate, Neil Rimmer. The goal, which leveled the score at 2-2, became known as the "piggyback" goal and is still remembered as one of the most bizarre goals in FA Cup history.

What we learn: Sometimes, it takes a little creativity and teamwork to achieve your goals.

2. The "Flying Pig" Controversy
In the 2007-08 Premier League fixture between Wigan Athletic and Manchester United, Wigan's mascot, a giant pig named Wilbur, was grounded by United's Ferdinand and Scholes. The incident, which became known as the "flying pig" controversy, sparked a debate about the role of mascots in football and the lengths to which players will go to protect their lead.

What we learn: Even in the world of football, there is always room for a bit of humor.

3. The "Park the Bus" Tactics
In the 2012-13 Premier League fixture between Wigan Athletic and Manchester United, Wigan manager Roberto Martinez deployed a "park the bus" strategy, in which his team defended deep and tried to catch United on the counterattack. The tactics were effective, as Wigan held United to a 0-0 draw. However, the strategy was criticized by some pundits who argued that it was negative and unsporting.

What we learn: Different teams have different ways of winning, and there is no one right way to play the game.