Surely a sliding doors moment is something that seemed insignificant at the time but transpired to be important. There was nothing insignificant about Reinelt or Storer. The five we scored in the fans united game would be a better example as no one imagined goal difference would be significant that season.
Another example might be VVD deciding not to join us or Dunk not going to Fulham.
Ok good call. Something insignificant yes, but that something had to lead to something specifically significant. Your goal difference example is good, but also we had points deducted that season which put us in that situation anyway. Anyone would think the FA didn't want to have to deal with the consequences of crooks owning football clubs....
Possibly the decision by the FA to change League placings from goal difference to goals scored?