Holders United through in style
Sunday, April 17, 2005
Article summary
Manchester United FC defeated Newcastle United FC 4-1 to set up an FA Cup final meeting with Arsenal FC in May.
Article body
Drought ended
Dutch international Ruud van Nistelrooij opened the scoring on 19 minutes with his first goal for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side since November, before Paul Scholes doubled their lead with a near-post header on the stroke of half-time.
Ameobi hope
Van Nistelrooij claimed his second of the game on 57 minutes but Shola Ameobi gave Newcastle hope when he steered in an effort a minute later. However, the game was put beyond doubt 15 minutes from time when Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo scored from close range.
Europe for seventh
The FA Cup holders will meet Arsenal, who defeated Blackburn Rovers FC 3-0 yesterday, in the final on 21 May. With both sides having already guaranteed themselves European football next season through their league position, it means the UEFA Cup place traditionally offered to the FA Cup winners or runners-up will now be given to the team that finishes seventh in the Premiership.
