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League One

Play-Off Classics: Gillingham v Manchester City

18 May 2017

As the 1999 League One Play-Off Final was about to enter the 90th minute, Manchester City found themselves two goals down and facing another season in the third tier of English football.

Kevin Horlock scored what seemed to be only a consolation goal, but then in the most dramatic of circumstances, Paul Dickov struck an equaliser in the 95th minute to take the game into extra time.

A further twist was that Dickov had been best man at Vince Bartram - the then Gillingham goalkeeper’s - wedding.
 
Dickov’s greatest moment immediately became one to forget, missing his penalty in the shoot-out, but City triumphed and the following year were promoted to the Premier League where they have since grown into one of England’s biggest clubs.
 
Many see that goal as a fundamental moment in Man City’s recent history, which laid the foundation for future Premier League titles.



Dickov reflected: “I remember when they scored their second goal just crouching down on the pitch and looking around. I watched City fans leave the ground and all I could think was ‘we’ve blown it’.
 
“I went from despair and nearly crying on the pitch when we went 2-0 down to absolute ecstasy. I still get goosebumps thinking about it now.
 
“To score at Wembley for a club who I have genuine love and affection for and given the occasion, it’s got to be the best moment I’ve ever had.”

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