1889

The FA Cup 1888–89 was the first to feature qualifying rounds.  Holders West Bromwich Albion therefore did not have to begin their defence until 2nd February 1889, when they beat Small Heath (Birmingham City) 3-2 away.
The second round on 16th February saw Albion beat Burnley 5-1 at home.
A trip to Chatham in Kent on 2nd March  for the third round was rewarded by a resounding 10-1 win for the Cup holders.
This set up a semi final that was a repeat of the previous season's final. West Bromwich Albion met Preston North End at Bramall Lane Sheffield on 16th March. Preston avenged the previous seasons disappointment with a  1-0 win. making them team 25 and giving them a third spell with the baton.

1889 Final

On 30th March 1889 27,000 were at The Oval to see Preston North End, with 6 Scots and a Welshman in their side, outclass Wolverhampton Wanderers and win by 3-0. Preston, having completed the first ever league and Cup double* without losing a single game were dubbed 'The Invincibles'.
Major Marindin, of course, was in charge of the game.

* The Football League had come into being the previous September