VIDEO: ON THIS DAY: 1996: David Beckham beats former Doncaster Rovers 'keeper from the halfway line

It is one of the most famous goals of all-time - and twenty years ago today David Beckham made global headlines with THAT goal against former Doncaster Rovers 'keeper Neil Sullivan from the halfway line.
By The Newsroom
Published 17th Aug 2016, 10:15 BST
Updated 17th Aug 2016, 10:25 BST
David Beckham celebrates his wonder goal against Wimbledon. (Photo: YouTube).David Beckham celebrates his wonder goal against Wimbledon. (Photo: YouTube).
David Beckham celebrates his wonder goal against Wimbledon. (Photo: YouTube).

It was on August 17, 1996 that the Manchester United winger scored the goal that catapulted him into the limelight and set in motion a glittering club and country career.

The visiting Red Devils were already two goals to the good against hosts Wimbledon at Selhurst Park thanks to strikes from Eric Cantona and Denis Irwin when Beckham's moment arrived in stoppage time.

Neil Sullivan in action for Doncaster Rovers.Neil Sullivan in action for Doncaster Rovers.
Neil Sullivan in action for Doncaster Rovers.
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Ronny Johnsen won back possession from Wimbledon's Efan Ekoku midway inside the United half, with Brian McClair picking up the loose ball. The Scot in turn prodded a pass through for Beckham, who let the ball roll across his body as he advanced towards the halfway line.

From there, rather than pick out a teammate, an ambitious Beckham spotted that home goalkeeper Neil Sullivan had strayed off his line and so went for goal. It became apparent very quickly that the 21-year-old's speculative effort was goalbound and despite scampering back, Sullivan could only watch the dipping ball drop underneath his crossbar and into the net.

With both arms aloft as he celebrated his goal, Beckham went on to become an overnight superstar.

Sullivan meanwhile left Wimbledon in 2000 and enjoyed spells at Tottenham and Leeds United before arriving at Doncaster Rovers in 2006.

While playing for the club, made 200 appearances and was part of the team which helped Doncaster win promotion to the Championship with the Wembley play-off final win over former club Leeds.