Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic fired Manchester United into the FA Cup semi-finals after a 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford, writes DEAN WORKMAN.

Jose Mourinho’s men were looking to bounce back from their Champions League exit by progressing to the FA Cup semi-finals while their opponents were dreaming of a trip to Wembley.

United got off to a lack-lustre start and despite having a lot of the ball, they struggled to create any real openings.

The Red Devils then began to threaten and came close after Tim Krul tipped a Chris Smalling shot onto the post following a United corner.

United finally broke the deadlock in the thirty-seventh minute. Matic whipped a cross into the box where Lukaku did well to get away from his marker and headed home the opener.

Despite being a goal down at half-time Brighton boss Chris Hughton would have been encouraged by his side’s performance.

The game then opened up in the second half and it was the visitors who created the first chance of note. A poor Antonio Valencia clearance fell to the feet of Jürgen Locadia who had his attempt well saved by Sergio Romero in the United goal.

Despite still dominating possession, the home crowd grew frustrated by United’s showing.

Mourinho’s team then finally put the game to bed when they doubled their lead with just seven minutes left to play after United won a penalty in the Brighton half. Ashley Young produced a wicked delivery over the top of the Brighton defence, which Matic met for an easy headed goal.

United have now put their names in the hat for the semi-finals of the FA Cup as Mourinho and his team continue their push for silverware.

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