Everton’s 1985 Cup Winners’ Cup Triumph: Glory Before the Fall

In the history of English football, Everton’s victory in the 1985 European Cup Winners’ Cup stands as a defining moment, a high point before the dawn of one of the darkest periods for English clubs in Europe. This triumph showcased the brilliance of Howard Kendall’s Everton side, a team that was arguably the best in Europe at the time.

Just weeks later, however, English clubs would be banned from European competitions following the Heysel Stadium disaster.

Everton’s Road to Glory

The 1984-85 season was a golden era for Everton, with the club dominating English football. Their European campaign in the Cup Winners’ Cup saw them overcome strong opposition:

First Round: Everton defeated University College Dublin 2-0 on aggregate, a straightforward start to their journey.

Second Round: A 3-1 aggregate victory over Inter Bratislava demonstrated the Toffees’ growing confidence on the European stage.

Quarter-Final: Everton faced Fortuna Sittard and comfortably dispatched them 5-0 over two legs.

Semi-Final: In what is regarded as one of Goodison Park’s greatest nights, Everton came from behind to defeat Bayern Munich 3-1 in the second leg, sealing a 3-1 aggregate victory.

Final: Facing Rapid Vienna in Rotterdam, Everton delivered a commanding performance, winning 3-1 with goals from Andy Gray, Trevor Steven, and Kevin Sheedy to claim their first European trophy.

The Heart of Kendall’s Team

Howard Kendall’s side was built on a blend of power, skill, and tactical intelligence. Key players included:

Neville Southall – A world-class goalkeeper who played a crucial role in keeping Bayern Munich at bay.

Kevin Ratcliffe & Derek Mountfield – A solid defensive partnership that provided stability at the back.

Peter Reid & Trevor Steven – The engine room of midfield, combining grit with flair.

Andy Gray & Graeme Sharp – A formidable strike partnership, capable of breaking down any defense.

The Fallout: English Clubs Banned from Europe

Everton’s European triumph was supposed to be the start of an era of continental dominance, but tragedy struck just weeks later. The Heysel Stadium disaster during the European Cup final between Liverpool and Juventus led to a five-year ban on English clubs from European competitions (six years for Liverpool).

This meant that Everton, at the peak of their powers, were denied the chance to compete in the European Cup the following season.

What Could Have Been?

Many believe that had Everton been allowed to compete in the 1985-86 European Cup, they could have become European champions. Instead, their squad gradually broke apart, and English clubs had to wait until 1991 for a return to continental football.

Despite the ban, Everton’s triumph in 1985 remains a cherished memory for the club’s supporters, a symbol of what might have been had they been given the chance to build on their European success.

Final Thoughts

Everton’s Cup Winners’ Cup victory in 1985 was more than just a trophy win—it was a moment of footballing brilliance that came at the wrong time. As English clubs were exiled from Europe, Everton’s golden generation was left wondering what could have been.

What do you think? Could Everton have conquered Europe if not for the ban? Let us know in the comments!