As Arsenal prepare to face Port Vale in the League Cup third round, memories of a far more significant encounter 27 years ago linger. In January 1998, Arsène Wenger's side needed a replay and penalties to overcome the second-tier side on their way to winning the FA Cup and Premier League double.
The third-round tie at Highbury on 3 January ended goalless, with Arsenal booed off after a lacklustre display. Port Vale, struggling in the second tier and without key players, defended resolutely. Manager Wenger faced criticism for letting Paul Merson and John Hartson leave, and the team sat sixth in the league.
The replay at Vale Park was a tense affair shown live on Sky. Despite Arsenal fielding Lee Dixon and Ian Wright, chances were few. Wright had a goal ruled out for offside and blazed over, while Port Vale's Tony Naylor and Gareth Ainsworth missed golden opportunities. Wright limped off in the 84th minute, replaced by 18-year-old Nicolas Anelka.
The match went to extra time and then penalties. Arsenal held their nerve to win the shootout, keeping their cup hopes alive. That victory sparked a run that saw them lift the FA Cup in May and clinch the league title, completing a domestic double.
For Arsenal fans making the trip to Stoke again, history offers a reminder that even the greatest campaigns can start with the narrowest of escapes.
