Owen's third MUFC strike

By Chris,
October 29 2009

All the headlines were taken by the crowd trouble that marred this fourth round contest, but on the pitch United cruised to a comfortable 2-0 victory at Oakwell. 6,000 travelling Reds witnessed a Danny Welbeck header and a fine Michael Owen finish as holders United took a step closer to Wembley.

Sir Alex Ferguson, who saw his side beat Spurs in last year's final, made wholesale changes from the side that lost at Anfield on Sunday afternoon.

Fergie made no fewer than eleven changes from the side that flopped against the Scousers, with a host of youngsters and fringe players given the chance to impress.

United's side still had plenty of first-team experience between them, however, and took the initiative after only six minutes. Welbeck rose highest to head home Anderson's corner as the Red Devils got off to a perfect start.

The Tykes had plenty of chances but were guilty of some wayward finishing - whilst under-fire ‘keeper Ben Foster pulled off a string of morale-boosting stops. A superb low finish from Michael Owen doubled United's lead in the closing stages, and though Gary Neville was dismissed for a high challenge late on, there was no way back for the Championship club.

The contest was marred by crowd trouble. Two supporters invaded the pitch from the home end, whilst catering areas were vandalised in the away section. Reports suggest as many as ten fans were arrested in incidents which soured an evening which had seen the firm majority of United's law-abiding support give the young XI tremendous vocal support throughout.

Roll on the quarter-finals.

Full Time - Barnsley 0-2 Manchester United
Attendance - 20,019