Keegan failed to recover from it, and left Newcastle soon after.
Yes he went on to manage England, Man City and Fulham, but Sir Alex always loomed big and bold in his life and we always got the impression KK longed for the day he could put Fergy in his place.
I'm not saying Sunday's point from Old Trafford was the moment to banish his demons ... but it sure as hell knocked the smile off the Jock's face!
While Ferguson was understandably frustrated, Keegan, and Newcastle, lapped it up.
The Magpies conceded 11 goals in two meetings with United last term and have not won at Old Trafford (against Man utd) since 1972, so a draw represented a moral victory.
Keegan: "Any side Manchester United puts out is a fantastic one," said Keegan.
"We just felt we had a bit more pace than them today, and there was a really good feeling about the squad before the game."
"I have heard about this "WOW" signing and if he (Mike Ashley) has said that he must do it.
"I don't know what people have said, I don't really read it, but it is a good point and it means they will start talking about someone else now."