Arsenal's dramatic 2-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield in May 1989, which clinched the league title in the dying seconds, is being turned into a major documentary film by Universal Pictures. The match, widely regarded as one of the most significant in English football history, saw Michael Thomas score the decisive goal in the final minute of the season.
Former Arsenal manager George Graham and several members of his title-winning squad, including Thomas, Alan Smith, John Lukic and Lee Dixon, are set to be interviewed for the production. The film will recount the night itself, the build-up—including motorway delays that caused Arsenal fans to miss kick-off—and the story of the season.
Liverpool and Arsenal were neck and neck in the title race, with the match serving as the final fixture of the season. Arsenal needed to win by two clear goals to take the championship, a feat few thought possible against a Liverpool side that had dominated English football for two decades. Graham pinned newspaper cuttings on the wall to inspire his players, who were written off by pundits.
Alan Smith scored the opening goal early in the second half. With time running out, Liverpool's Steve McMahon held up one finger to signal a minute remaining, but winger John Barnes lost possession instead of running to the corner flag. The ball was pumped upfield, and Thomas raced through to score, sparking wild celebrations. ITV commentator Brian Moore's immortal line, 'It's up for grabs now!', became legendary.
The victory was Arsenal's first league title since 1971 and set Graham on a path to further success, including another league title, both domestic cups and the European Cup Winners' Cup. The film and accompanying book are expected to revive debates about the greatest match in English football history.
