Wednesday, 22nd January, 2014
Manchester United's miserable form has continued after they were knocked out of the League Cup at the semi-final stage by Sunderland, with Black Cats boss Gus Poyet hailing the achievement.
Heading into the second leg 2-1 behind, Manchester United quickly drew the tie level in the 37th minute when Jonny Evans found the back of the net with a header, Sunderland defender John O'Shea having lost his man.
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But the Red Devils could not find another goal in normal time and actually saw Sunderland enjoy some fine spells of possession in the second half as the pressure eased on the visitors.
With the scores level at 2-2 on aggregate, the match then moved into extra-time, when real drama unfolded.
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As the tie looked to be going towards a Manchester United win via away goals, Phil Bardsley hit a shot in the 119th minute, which goalkeeper David de Gea spilled into his own net, sending the visiting fans into raptures.
Manchester United instantly struck back though, with Javier Hernandez scoring in the very last minute of extra-time, to take the tie to penalties.
A bizarre shootout followed, with both teams missing multiple penalties, but Sunderland prevailed, winning 2-1 on spot-kicks.
And Poyet saluted the achievement.
Asked about what the mood in the dressing room was like, Poyet told Sky Sports post-match: "Happiness. With the chairman as well inside.
"You know how difficult this season has been for us, it's been really tough, for the chairman, for the fans, the club, for all of us.
"It was a great story of football, let's see if we can go one better.
"I'm trying to do my best, trying to convince the fans."
Sunderland will play Manchester City in the final at Wembley on 2nd March.
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