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Fergie relishes cup progress

Ferguson: His Reds go marching on

Ferguson: His Reds go marching on

Not even an injury to Phil Jones could dampen Sir Alex Ferguson's spirits after Manchester United progressed to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup on Monday.

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Jones left Old Trafford on crutches after a collision with Reading's Jobi McAnuff in the first half - with Nani coming on as his replacement.

Nani, who looked dangerous from his first touch, put United in front on 69 minutes with a deflected strike, before the hosts doubled their lead three minutes later.

Goalscorer Nani then turned provider by producing a fine cross for Javier Hernandez, who headed the ball into the back of the net.

McAnuff pulled one back for the Royals, but it was too little, too late, and United will now host either Middlesbrough or Chelsea in the next round of the competition.

Jones's injury aside, Ferguson was keen to focus on the positives: "It was a good Cup tie. It ended up a really good Cup tie when they got the goal and had a really good go at it.

"When they got the goal, they then got the ball in the box. We withstood that and I think when you analyse it, we played some great football and should have scored a lot of goals tonight.

"We missed some chances but there were shots saved and I'm really satisfied with the quality of the game.

"A goal can change things and when we got it, we had to defend well. We really should have punished them better, though. At 2-0 you're never comfortable."

The Scot was particularly impressed with Hernadez's performances, adding: "15 goals he's got us this season. The great thing about Chicharito is his energy and enthusiasm is fantastic.

"I thought Nani's contribution was terrific too. I had a feeling he would win the match for us.

"When you look at these draws, you just hope for a home quarter final. You can't ask for any more than that."

Posted: 19/02/13 07:55

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