Both clubs were looking for some respite from their league form, which would see the two sides caught in the relegation battle and narrowly avoiding the drop come the end of the season.
Walsh had already tasted FA Cup glory before joining the Blues, winning the trophy with Tottenham in 1991, and seemed determined to enjoy an extended run in the competition in his only full season in a City shirt.
Midway through the Villa half, Ian Brightwell looked up for a brief second, and then placed a perfect ball beyond the defence. Walsh hit it on the half volley, firing over the onrushing keeper and into the top corner to the delight of the fans behind the goal.
It proved to be the game’s solitary strike, and ensured City’s progress into the fifth round.
City would unfortunately go on to lose 3-1 to Newcastle, but Walsh’s goal would prove a worthy memory of that year’s competition.
For the forthcoming Barclays Premier League game against West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday 7 May, supporters who hold concession seasoncards, can enjoy a free upgrade. This enables those junior seasoncards to be used by an adult for no extra charge.
It presents an ideal opportunity to use any Seasoncards which may not be used during school term, and to see the Blues in the final league game before setting off for Wembley.
Tickets are still available for the WBA home game, which can be bought online at www.mcfc.co.uk/tickets or by phone on 0161 444 1894 (24 hour).
