Romantically, it was the so-called 'lesser sides' who caused a few ripples 12 months ago, starting with Conference side Exeter.

They enjoyed a few moments in the spotlight when they held 11-times winners Manchester United to a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford in the tie of the round.

But, after fielding an understrength team at Old Trafford, Sir Alex Ferguson decided to field the big guns in the replay and it paid dividends with goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.

Liverpool, who have held the famous cup aloft six times, were embarrased at Burnley, losing 1-0 thanks to a comical Djimi Traore own goal. The result left Liverpool stunned and ended their affair with the cup for another year.

Chelsea, winners in 1997 and 2000 and eventual Premier League champions, were given a scare before eventually coming from behind to beat Scunthorpe 3-1 at Stamford Bridge. Scunthorpe took the lead through Paul Hayes but Chelsea secured the win with strikes from Mateja Kezman and Eidur Gudjohnsen, plus an own goal from Andy Crosby.

Newcastle beat a very spirited Yeading 2-0 at Loftus Road.

After a nervous first half where the Ryman Premier side made life difficult for their illustrious opponents, goals from Lee Bowyer and Shola Ameobi saved the Premiership giant's blushes.

Arsenal, who have won the competition ten times, came from behind to beat Stoke City 2-1 at Highbury. Stoke took the lead through Wayne Thomas just before half-time but Arsene Wenger's team sparked themselves into action, scoring through Jose Antonio Reyes and Robin Van Persie.

In another shock result, Aston Villa were taught a footballing lesson by Sheffield United and beaten 3-1 at Bramall Lane. After Villa took the lead through Gareth Barry in the second half, Neil Warnock's men fought back with a goal from Danny Cullip and two late Andy Liddell strikes

But the upset of the round was provided by League One side Oldham Athletic, who caused a stir by beating Premiership side Manchester City 1-0 at Boundary Park. Striker Scott Vernon (pictured) got the only goal of the match to send Kevin Keegan's side crashing out of the competition.


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