as 1974–1975 ended with relegation by a single point. December 1975 saw another serious financial crisis at the club, with a special meeting called for the club's shareholders. The refusal of the club's bankers to extend their credit led to Luton's directors paying the wage bill with their own money to prevent the club from being closed down. Liquidation was averted by the sale of Peter Anderson to Royal Antwerp, with the £80,000 raised alleviating the strain on the club's finances. Despite these backroom problems, Luton still managed a creditable seventh-place finish in 1975–1976. The next season saw Luton finish sixth, before a drop to 13th in 1977–1978 prompted Haslam's departure to Sheffield United. This gave the young assistant manager, David Pleat, his chance. The club came close to the drop during Pleat's first full season in charge but, following the shrewd acquisition of a number of key players, the club were soon challenging for promotion once again. Pleat's astute signings, including Mal Donaghy, David Moss and captain Brian Horton, complemented the existing home-grown talent personified by skilful midfielder Ricky Hill and prolific goalscorer Brian Stein. Pleat even dabbled in the overseas market, signing Yugoslav defender Raddy Antić from Spanish club Real Zaragoza in 1980. Luton came sixth, then fifth, and then romped home as champions in 1981–1982, spending only one week off of the top spot from October onwards, amassing 88 points and clinching the championship eight points ahead of second placed arch-rivals Watford. The top flight (1982–1992) Under Pleat, the club had developed a cavalier and attacking style of play, which was evident during 1982–1983 as Luton finished with the second highest tally of away goals, only one less than champions Liverpool. On the last day of the season, Luton needed all three points against relegation rivals Manchester City at Maine Road to stay in the division. City, needing only a point to avoid the drop, defended resolutely and few chances came to Luton – but with only seven minutes remaining, substitute Raddy Antić slammed home the winner to secure Luton's top flight status and prompt a manic and now infamous jig across the pitch from Pleat. The next two seasons saw Luton consolidate as the club finished first 16th, then 13th in 1984–1985 as they also reached the FA Cup semi-finals. Player sales continued as skilful forward Paul Walsh, the PFA Young Player of the Year, was