The 1973–74 English football season was Aston Villa's 75th season in the Football League, this season playing in the Football League Second Division. Under manager Vic Crowe this was their second year in the 2nd following promotion from the Third Division. But Vic Crowe was sacked in April 1974. Ron Saunders was appointed manager in June 1974.Saunders chosen as Aston Villa's new manager, 5 June 1974, The Times, Issue: 59107
The New Year's Day fixture saw Villa draw 0–0 with Millwall before a home crowd of 20,905 leaving Villa in 13th position.Spectators return on a record day for Leeds, Geoffrey Green, The Times 2 January 1974 Within the month, Arsenal fall at the feet of Sammy Morgan.Arsenal fall at the feet of Morgan as Villa rise to their history, Geoffrey Green, The Times 31 January 1974.
There were debut appearances for Sammy Morgan (40), Trevor Hockey (24), Jake Findlay (14) and Bobby Campbell (10) and Roy Stark (2).https://www.avfchistory.co.uk/player/roy-stark
Second Division
Matches
Source: avfchistory.co.uk
FA Cup
Tie noHome teamScoreAway teamDate7Aston Villa3–1Chester5 January 1974 Fourth round The matches were scheduled for Saturday, 26 January 1974. Four matches were, however, played the day after. Eight matches were drawn, of which one, the tie between Portsmouth and Leyton Orient, required a second replay.
Tie noHome teamScoreAway teamDate14Arsenal1–1Aston Villa26 January 1974ReplayAston Villa2–0Arsenal30 January 1974 Fifth round The matches were scheduled for Saturday, 16 February 1974 with one taking place the day after. Two matches were drawn and went to replays.
Tie noHome teamScoreAway teamDate2Burnley1–0Aston Villa16 February 1974
League Cup
For the Second round: The 28 first round winners were joined by the remaining clubs from the Second Division and all from the First Division. Ties were straight knockout games, with additional replays if required. The original games were staged on 2/8–10 October 1973.
Tie noHome teamScore1Away teamAttendanceDate20York City1–0Aston Villa7,9819 October 1973
References