Real Sociedad runners-up in 1910 without playing a final | OneFootball

In 1910, Real Sociedad staged the Copa del Rey in San Sebastián as reigning champions, challenging the established order. They finished runners-up without playing a final after a three-team decider.

According to Diario Vasco, Real, winners in 1909 as Ciclista FC, claimed hosting rights under revised rules, but the Spanish federation refused and threatened sanctions. Even so, 14 clubs entered, and because Real were not yet a year on the Civil Registry, they competed as Vasconia Sporting Club.

The finals at Ondarreta ran from 19 to 21 March as a triangular between Athletic, Madrid and Real. On 19 March Athletic beat Madrid 2-0, Remigio Iza and Englishman Martyn Veitch scoring in the second half, so a win over Real the next day would seal the title.

Ondarreta was packed on 20 March, seats at 3 pesetas and general at 1, with a special Ferrocarriles Vascongados train bringing Bilbao fans. In cold, windy conditions Real controlled the first half and McGuinness twice went close.

After the interval Athletic tightened up and the game turned scrappy. On 58 minutes Iza scored after a Berraondo clearance, and late on McGuinness had an equaliser from a Simmons cross ruled out.

Minor scuffles were quelled by the Guardia Civil and the miqueletes. The next day Real beat Madrid 2-0, McGuinness scoring both, to secure second place. It explains why the club have five runner-up finishes, 1910, 1913, 1928, 1951 and 1988, and three titles, 1909, 1987 and 2020, from only seven finals.

Source: Diario Vasco