It seems inconceivable to younger fans but 20 years ago Manchester City were in the third tier for a season and it would have been longer but for an improbable Wembley comebackWembley, 30 May 1999: the Division Two play-off final stands at Gillingham 2 Manchester City 1 and as the clock reaches 95 minutes Joe Royle’s side face another season in England’s third tier.Now, though, the ball drops to Paul Dickov and in front of the No 9 is Vince Bartram, Gillingham’s goalkeeper and also the best man at his wedding. With a sweet strike Bartram is beaten and Dickov sends City fans into ecstasy and himself on a knee-surfing celebration that has become an iconic image in the club’s rise to become England’s dominant team. Related: Tired but still hungry, Pep Guardiola knows City need Champions League Related: FA Cup victory shows Manchester City are a team to love, admire and fear | Barney Ronay Continue readingreadfullarticle
