The pinnacle of Lowe's football chairmanship as Saints faced Arsenal at the Millennium Stadium.
On 17 May 2003, Southampton Football Club reached the FA Cup Final for the first time in 27 years under Rupert Lowe's chairmanship.
The Saints faced Arsenal at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, losing 1-0 to a Robert Pirès goal.
Despite the defeat, the cup run was considered a highlight of Lowe's tenure. Combined with an 8th-place league finish and UEFA Cup qualification, it represented Southampton's most successful modern season.
James Beattie had been instrumental in the cup run and finished the season with 24 goals.