The Reds face United in the semi final at Maine Road. United had beaten the Reds just two year earlier in the final. A high intesity battle ensued which left neither side the victor on the day.
Kenny Dalglish turned and shot home after seventeen minutes to give the Reds the lead. Just two minutes later Joe Jordan crashed home a header to equalise. United stepped up a gear now and dominated large periods of the game. However on thirty eight minutes the Reds were awarded a penalty after Buchan challenged Dalglish unfairly. Terry McDermott stepped up but despite sending Gary Bailey the wrong way saw his spot kick hit the post.
Brian Greenhoff grabbed an early second half lead for United and as time went on it looked like it might be enough to win the match. The Reds though dug deep and battled hard forcing Bailey into saves. They also saw Martin Buchan clear off his own line from Souness shot. The pressure finally told though when Hansen tucked away an equaliser eight minutes from time.
