So there will be no FA Cup fairytale to mark the 50th anniversary of 1973. Nor a last 16 meeting with Leeds United to evoke the memory of that Wembley day in May half a century ago.
Sunderland's cup exit at the hands of Fulham saw to that. But the Black Cats can hold their heads up high for the way they went toe-to-toe with top flight opposition, just as they did against Leeds way back when.
The sides produced a breathless game full of drama at Craven Cottage when they drew 1-1 in the initial fourth round tie, and last night's replay - screened live on BBC1 - was a similarly fine advert for the nation's premier cup competition. This time, Fulham's class shone through although Sunderland demonstrated the kind of never-say-die spirit that has served them so well in the Championship this season.
