Midfielder admits Manchester United want to end a difficult season with FA Cup after Anthony Martial’s last-gasp goal put them through to the final
London: Michael Carrick was thrilled by Manchester United’s flair for the dramatic as Anthony Martial’s last-gasp winner against Everton booked their place in the FA Cup final.
United will make their first appearance in the final for nine years after Martial capped a wild second half that ended in a 2-1 victory for Louis van Gaal’s side at Wembley on Saturday.
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Manchester United striker Anthony Martial (left) celebrates with teammate after scoring his team’s winning goal during the FA Cup semi-final match against Everton at Wembley Stadium in London on Saturday. pic/AFP
After Marouane Fellaini’s 34th minute opener, United were well in control before losing their grip in the second half. United goalkeeper David de Gea had to save a Romelu Lukaku penalty but Everton still drew level through Chris Smalling’s 74th minute own goal.
Everton were unable to turn their pressure into further goals however and French forward Martial netted with a cool finish deep into stoppage-time.
“It was a crazy second half. There were chances everywhere and to finish like that is the best way to win a game,” Carrick told the BBC.
Michael Carrick
“We played some good stuff in the first half and we were comfortable and in control of the game.” United will play Watford or Crystal Palace in the final on May 21 as they look to win the competition for the first time since beating Millwall in 2004. Carrick admitted another Cup final triumph is long overdue as United look to end a difficult season on a high note.
“It would mean everything to win it. We have been desperate to get our hands on this trophy for too long,” Carrick added. “We are not there yet but we have given ourselves a chance.
David de Gea said: “The penalty save was a key moment. In one second Martial scores a goal and you win it in the last minute — it’s unbelievable.”