Watford FC 1989 - 91 Retro Football Shirt

The Great Escape of 1990/91 was one of the most remarkable turnarounds in form of Watford’s history. Kickstarted by David Byrne’s stunning late winner at Middlesbrough, Steve Perryman’s side went on a run of seven wins and two draws from ten games to claw back an eight-point deficit, ensuring safety in the old Division Two before the final day of the season.

Paul Wilkinson’s remarkable form was pivotal during this period, and in 1991, the striker also became the first player in Watford’s history to finish as top scorer in three consecutive seasons. A hat-trick at Molineux was arguably his finest hour.

The likes of Gary Porter, Glenn Roeder, and Glyn Hodges were all key during this era, as well as goalkeepers Tony Coton and David James, while Gary Penrice must also be remembered for a remarkable feat of scoring in each of his six first appearances in 1989/90.