Luton host Rotherham United on Saturday looking for their first home league win over the Millers for almost 30 years.
Back on August 31, 1996, the Hatters triumphed 1-0 in a new Division Two contest at Kenilworth Road thanks to Mitchell Thomas’s second half goal which secured their opening success of a season in which they finished third, only to miss out on promotion via the play-offs. To find out just who lined up for Town that day, see below.
13. Used sub: Tony Thorpe
Despite having scored in the first two games of the season, the forward was on the bench against Rotherham, coming on for David Oldfield in the closing stages. Was a regular from then on though, finishing as leading marksman with a wonderful 28 goals from 39 appearances, but wasn't able to find the net in either play-off match as Town's hopes of going up were dashed. Photo: Hatters Heritage
14. Used sub: Matthew Upson
The academy graduate made his one and only ever appearance for the Hatters when replacing Julian James for the final moments of this victory. Moved to Arsenal for around £2m the following summer and went on to have a brilliant career that saw him play for Birmingham, West Ham and Brighton, also winning 21 caps for England, playing at the 2010 World Cup Finals. Photo: Hatters Heritage
15. Manager: Lennie Lawrence
Had left Bradford City to become Town manager the previous season but was unable to prevent Town being relegated to the new Division Two. Almost led the Hatters straight back up, as they finished third in the table, four points behind Stockport in second and were then beaten 4-3 by Crewe Alexandra over two legs in the play-offs. Had three more years in charge of the club before departing in 2000. Photo: Hatters Heritage