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      FA Cup 5th round LIVE: Jean-Philippe Mateta rushed to hospital with ear injury, Oliver Galsner confirms

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      THE FA Cup fifth round is here – and some huge upsets could be on the cards.Today’s action kicked off with two thrilling derbies as Crystal Palace beat London rivals Millwall 3-1, and Preston shocked Burnley with a 3-0 win in the Lancashire derby.Jean-Philippe Mateta was taken off on a stretcher early on at Selhurst Park after the Palace striker was on the receiving end of a kung-fu-like kick from Liam Roberts, which saw the Lions keeper see red.Oliver Glasner has confirmed he picked up an ear injury, and will miss Palace’s clash against Ipswich.Later, Bournemouth and Wolves go head-to-head in an all-Premier League clash.To finish today’s action, Manchester City take on fourth round giant killers Plymouth.Kick off times: 12.15pm/3pm/5.45pmFollow our live blog below…HT: Bournemouth 1-0 WolvesThere is no doubt that The Cherries should be out of sight in this game.They have had the ball in the back of the net three times but VAR reviews have denied them.From a Wolves perspective, they should be able to play with a care-free attitude in the second-half, knowing that their FA Cup journey should already be over.Copy linkCopiedBoss gives update on MatetaOliver Glasner has given some clarity on his striker:”He’s at hospital now, it is a serious ear injury, but fingers are crossed it is not too serious.”He will miss the Ipswich game, but I hope he is available for the quarter-final of the FA Cup at the end of March.”Of course we all wish him the best.”Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at the Vitality StadiumAsk, and you shall receive. But the Bournemouth fans are only happy with one of the two big incidents. Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone will not want to see Evanilson’s goal again after being caught well out of position and only being able to parry Antoine Semenyo’s shot. Johnstone seemed to have been embarrassed again moments later when a David Brooks corner was forced in by a combination of Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez at the back post. But after a massive VAR delay, in which referee Sam Barrott held a touchline gathering with the captains, backroom staff and anyone else who fancied it, the man in electric blue announced to the crowd that it had been disallowed for offside against Kerkez. And then, during the seven minutes of stoppage time, Evanilson played in Kerkez, whose cross needed only to be tapped home by Brooks. But the ball was slightly behind him and he hit it on to his own hand before watching it dribble into the net despite Nasser Djiga’s best efforts. Brooks didn’t celebrate and the goal was disallowed much more quickly.Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 1-0 Wolves45+4. Almost a second goal for the hosts.Kerkez rolls the ball across the box and Brooks is running onto it, three yards out.He miskicks the ball, it bobbles up and strikes his hand before going into the goal.Quite rightly, it is ruled out as a result but what a miss by the Bournemouth man.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at the Vitality StadiumDavid Brooks’ corner went all the way to the back post where it was forced over the line by a combination of Huijsen and Kerkez, with the suggestion of one or both using their arms.The home fans quite rightly sang, “It’s not football anymore,’ and “This is embarrassing,’ as the delay went on and on.At one point referee Sam Barrott led captains Nelson Semedo and Lewis Cook to the touchline for a conference with the managers, backroom staff and anyone else with an opinion to offer.But finally Barrott turned on his microphone and announced that Kerkez had been ruled offside.Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 1-0 Wolves44. Relief for the visitors, finally.The Cherries’ goal is ruled out for offside.It took around seven minutes to come to that decision, semi-automated offside cannot come quickly enough.Copy linkCopiedGoal disallowed by VARCopy linkCopiedBournemouth 2-0 Wolves41. It has been six minutes already with this VAR check.The officials are making a mockery of this technology.It really seems like the lunatics are running the asylum.Copy linkCopiedVAR check in progressCopy linkCopiedGoal – Dean Huijsen (Bournemouth)Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 1-0 Wolves30. The deadlock has been broken on the south coast.Johnstone makes a save but does not get the ball clear of the goal.Evanilson rolls it into an empty net to score on his FA Cup debut.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Evanilson (Bournemouth)Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves28. This game promised so much but, so far, has given so little.Both teams are looking full of promise with their attacking play but the shooting has been dreadful.The safest place to be if you do not want to be hit with the ball is in the middle of the goal currently.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at the Vitality StadiumNot going to lie, this is hardly thrill-a-minute stuff. Bournemouth are having the better of the game but have yet to force Sam Johnstone into a save. Wolves have been time-wasting from the start yet had the best chance when a Mateus Cunha cross reached Jorgen Strand Larsen. The vocal fans of both teams deserve better than this. Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves20. The game is still finely poised at the Vitality Stadium.While both sides are creating half-chances, they are not really asking much of the keepers.It feels like one of those matches that could do with a goal to spark it into life.Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves15. Wolves show they are not just here for the ride.Cunha lays the ball off to Bellegarde but his shot is blocked.The Brazilian is immediately involved again, laying it into the path of Ait-Nouri, who sees his left-footed shot saved by Kepa.Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves10. This is one-way traffic currently.Bournemouth are piling on the pressure and the visitors are struggling to keep them out.It feels like it is just a matter of time before The Cherries break the deadlock in this one.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves3. It is a feisty start at the Vitality Stadium.Cunha is looking to get involved for the visitors as he wins a free kick for Wolves.It all breaks down and The Cherries are immediately on the front foot.Tavernier has the first shooting chance, but drags his shot wide of the target.Copy linkCopiedBoss looking to top season offBournemouth have been one of the surprise packages in the Premier League this campaign.While they are pushing to qualify for Europe, Andoni Iraola knows what it would mean to their fans to win a trophy.Having seen some big teams exit the competition already, it seems a superb chance for The Cherries to make a rare Wembley appearance.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at the Vitality StadiumLet’s face it, these two sides are unlikely to have a better shout of winning the FA Cup any time soon than they do now. Liverpool, the only “big” club showing any consistency, are already out because they didn’t take the competition seriously enough in the last round. Bournemouth and Wolves have both made changes, but not so many that you think they fail to appreciate the opportunity they have. Evanilson makes his first start up top for the Cherries since breaking a David Beckham bone in his foot a couple of months ago. Copy linkCopiedVitality Stadium with pick of matchesBoth Bournemouth and Wolves have picked strong sides for this afternoon’s fifth round FA Cup tie.The Cherries will be boosted by the return of their Brazilian striker as they look to book a place in the quarter-finals.While Wolves are primarily focussed on Premier League survival, a cup run can be a catalyst for a change in fortunes and inspire a run of form.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedWolves starting XI:Vitor Pereira picks a strong side as they look to book their place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.31. Johnstone, 34. Djiga, 4. Bueno, 24. Toti Gomes, 22. Semedo, 8. Joao Gomes, 27. Bellegarde, 3. Ait-Nouri, 21. Sarabia, 10. Cunha, 9. Strand LarsenCredit: @WolvesCopy linkCopiedBournemouth starting XI:The big news for The Cherries is the return of striker Evanilson from injury to start this match.13. Kepa, 4. Cook, 23. Hill, 2. Huijsen, 3. Kerkez, 8. Scott, 12. Adams, 7. Brooks, 16. Tavernier, 24. Semenyo, 9. EvanilsonCredit: @afcbournemouthCopy linkCopiedFT: Crystal Palace 3-1 MillwallThe Eagles book their place in the quarter-finals.It was a game they really controlled from start to finish but the visitors did well to stay competitive after going down to ten men.However, this afternoon will leave a sour taste in the mouths of all at Selhurst Park after seeing Mateta stretchered off and taken to hospital.Copy linkCopiedCherries fancied for cup clashDespite their dip in form lately, Andoni Iraola’s side are the bookies’ favourite to progress this afternoon:Bournemouth – 7/10Draw – 3/1Wolves – 16/5All match odds brought to you by Betway.Copy linkCopied More

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      ‘Endangered his life’ – Crystal Palace owner gives Mateta injury update live on BBC and slams ‘reckless’ Millwall star

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      STEVE PARISH has claimed Liam Roberts ENDANGERED Jean-Philippe Mateta’s life with his horror challenge.In-form Crystal Palace hitman Mateta was rushed to the hospital after being on the receiving end of a wild tackle from the Millwall keeper in the first half of the tasty FA Cup fifth-round tie.Liam Roberts crashed into Jean-Philippe Mateta in Millwall’s FA Cup clash with Crystal PalaceCredit: REXThe Millwall stopper got the ball, but his left boot followed through and felled MatetaCredit: GETTYThe tackle drew blood and resulted in Mateta being transported to the hospitalCredit: GettyPalace owner Steve Parish went on an extraordinary mid-match rant about the challengeCredit: BBCRoberts booted the striker in the head as he recklessly cleared the ball with a kung-fu kick of a challenge, which eventually earned him a red card.Parish couldn’t quite believe his eyes and voiced his frustrations during a mid-match interview with the BBC.He said: “So far what we know is he’s got a bad gash behind his ear and a head injury. He’s at the hospital so we hope for the best.”There’s a lot of emotion in football but we need to talk about that challenge. READ MORE ON MATETA”In all the time I’ve watched football, I’ve never seen a challenge like it.”I looked to see how old the keeper is, he’s 30 years old.”That is the most reckless challenge on a football pitch I think I’ve ever seen.”And he needs to have a long, hard look at himself that lad.Most read in FootballSteve Parish mimicked Liam Roberts’ tackle in the standsCredit: BBC”Because he’s endangering a fellow professional, maybe even his life, with a challenge like that.”Parish couldn’t quite believe that referee Michael Oliver needed to review the incident before giving Roberts his marching orders.Crystal Palace star Mateta stretchered off with horror injury after shock kung-fu kick from Milwall keeper who sees redHe continued: “It’s very difficult for me to talk about the rest of the game because we’re worried about JP in hospital. It’s just a terrible, terrible challenge.”That goalkeeper hasn’t shown a duty of care to another professional.”Someone mentioned there was one in the 1982 World Cup like it.”But it’s a dreadful challenge and why the referee needs to go the screen, I’ve no idea.”Forget about him being a football player, he is a human being. That is not a normal challenge. Jean-Philippe Mateta was rushed to the hospital after being treated on the pitchCredit: REX”If you’re kicking someone in the head with the full force, God knows what damage has been done to him.”Palace boss Oliver Glasner was left sickened by the injury, saying: “I didn’t want to see it after the game. “I didn’t want to watch the injury. I watched it because I knew I had to talk about it. “It was a very serious foul play. It’s tough to see. I don’t want to watch it again. “Imagine it could have ended his career. He didn’t want to make such a challenge but his decision to make the challenge was wrong.Oliver Glasner was sickened by the injury to Jean-Philippe MatetaCredit: GETTY”I believe in fair play and all sportsmen don’t want to injure another. His decision with his foot with this intensity was wrong.Sections of the travelling Millwall support shockingly mocked the injury to Mateta by chanting, “Let him die.”Palace raced into a 2-0 lead in seven first-half minutes thanks to an own goal from Japhet Tanganga and a strike from Daniel Munoz. READ MORE SUN STORIESTen-man Millwall, however, reduced the arrears in first-half stoppage time through Wes Harding.The Lions battled valiantly but had their hopes of a quarter-final hopes dashed by a sumptuous header from substitute Eddie Nketiah. More

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      Crystal Palace star Mateta rushed to hospital and given oxygen in worrying scenes after horror kung-fu kick challenge

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      JEAN-PHILIPPE MATETA is in hospital with a “serious” gash behind his ear after a shocking kung-fu kick from Millwall’s goalkeeper who saw red.Just six minutes were on the clock in the South London derby FA Cup fifth-round clash when Crystal Palace’s Will Hughes played a superb long pass up the field. Liam Roberts was sent off for his awful challenge on Jean-Philippe MatetaCredit: ReutersThe goalkeeper came flying out of his penalty area to clear the ballCredit: BBCHis left boot caught Mateta in the headCredit: ReutersPlay was delayed by approximately ten minutesCredit: BBCMateta and Millwall centre-back Jake Cooper tussled for the bouncing ball.But Lions goalkeeper Roberts came rushing out of his box.The 30-year-old did appear to win a part of the ball.But he then clattered into Mateta with his stray left boot, catching him in the head with his studs and opening a nasty gash behind the ear of the striker.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLRef Michael Oliver initially allowed play to continue with Palace still on the attack but once the shot was headed away, he stopped the game.To start with, Roberts escaped without a red card and was permitted to stay on the field but then Oliver was sent to the pitchside VAR monitor to watch a replay.He decided to overturn his original decision and announced the sending off over the in-stadium tannoy before brandishing the red card.Mateta stayed down for several minutes as he was treated by the medics on the Selhurst Park pitch while distressed team-mates watched on.Most read in FA CupAfter nearly ten minutes on the ground, he was carried off on a stretcher to the corner of the stadium where an ambulance was waiting to take him to hospital. The French striker received oxygen as he was taken away.Taiwo Awoniyi left with blood pouring from his face after horror clash with Exeter ace in Forest’s FA Cup frustrationFurious Palace co-owner Steve Parish at half-time revealed Mateta had suffered a “bad gash behind his ear”.Manager Oliver Glasner later said: “He’s at hospital now and he has a serious ear injury but the fingers are crossed that it’s not too serious.”He will definitely miss the Ipswich game but I still hope that he is available for the quarter-finals of the FA Cup at the end of March.Eddie Nketiah came on in Mateta’s place in a concussion substitute – meaning Palace still had their allocated five subs.Millwall were also forced into a tactical change as Lions No1 Lukas Jensen came on between the sticks – with Luke Cundle sacrificed by Alex Neil. Messages of support flooded in for Mateta as the seriousness of the situation unfolded.One said: “So horrible to see. Get well soon Big Man.”Another wrote: “Wishing Jean-Philippe Mateta a quick recovery after the injury.”A third added: “Prayers for Mateta.”And a fourth typed: “Absolutely disgusting challenge. I hope Mateta is ok.”‘HORRIFIC CHALLENGE… TERRIBLE’Palace chairman Parish was shown on the TV cameras looking distressed and shaking his head in concern.The BBC commentator also condemned the visiting Millwall fans who sickeningly chanted “let him die” as Mateta received treatment.He said: “Millwall fans are not endearing themselves to anyone with their chants about Mateta. The club could be revisited about that.”However, it is understood the Den club will escape punishment for the tasteless chanting because it did not breach FA regulations. Nketiah thought he had given Palace the lead soon after the match restarted but it was chalked out for handball.Japhet Tanganga headed into his own net on 33 minutes and it was 2-0 seven minutes later when Daniel Munoz pounced.The goal was initially ruled out for offside but then it became clear the ball came off Tanganga and fell to Munoz. A whopping 13 minutes of injury time were added at the end of the first half following the lengthy stoppage – with Millwall pulling one back as the clock hit the 58-minute mark before the break.Nketiah rounded off the 3-1 victory to book Palace’s place in the quarter-finals – but all of the talk was about his stricken team-mate.At half-time, an emotional Parish lambasted the “terrible, terrible” foul and gave an update on Mateta’s injury.He told the BBC: “So far what we know is he’s got a bad gash behind his ear and a head injury. He’s at the hospital so we hope for the best.”There’s a lot of emotion in football but we need to talk about that challenge. That is the most reckless challenge on a football pitch I’ve ever seen… he’s endangering a fellow professional, maybe even his life, with a challenge like that. Steve Parish”In all the time I’ve watched football, I’ve never seen a challenge like it.”I looked to see how old the keeper is, he’s 30 years old. That is the most reckless challenge on a football pitch I think I’ve ever seen and he needs to have a long, hard look at himself that lad because he’s endangering a fellow professional, maybe even his life, with a challenge like that. “That goalkeeper hasn’t shown a duty of care to another professional. “Someone mentioned there was one in the 1982 World Cup like it but it’s a dreadful challenge and why the referee needs to go the screen, I’ve no idea. “Forget about him being a football player, he is a human being. That is not a normal challenge. “If you’re kicking someone in the head with the full force, God knows what damage has been done to him. “It’s very difficult for me to talk about the rest of the game because we’re worried about JP in hospital. It’s just a terrible, terrible challenge.”Pundits Troy Deeney and Glenn Murray also weighed in with their thoughts from the Selhurst Park studio.Deeney said: “It’s a horrific challenge, terrible. The occasion got to him, he was keen to make a good start, unfortunately he got that one really wrong.”I just think the state of referring now, they are falling back on VAR. It doesn’t matter if they make the decision because VAR will pull it back. “Michael Oliver is probably the best ref we’ve got, I would prefer he made a decision then VAR say, ‘You got that one wrong,’ as opposed to now they don’t make decisions and just wait for VAR to help out.Michael Oliver overturned his decision to give a red cardCredit: BBCThe referee announced his decision over the tannoyCredit: GettySteve Parish was emotional as he gave an update at half-timeCredit: BBC”The thing is he didn’t stop it. Normally for a head injury, you would blow the whistle straight away to get him checked. “He played on, didn’t stop it and from Michael Oliver’s point of view, it’s like he thinks he clears it and it’s just a coming together.”Murray added: “This is not a nice challenge. The way Liam Rovert comes out, yes he gets first contact but he’s very much protecting himself and you can see the impact on Mateta.”I think he catches his temple with his studs. It’s a really nasty one and a massive worry for Crystal Palace going forward.”Palace manager Oliver Glasner struggled to enjoy the victory amid the uncertainty over his star man.The Austrian said: “He is in hospital. Has a serious ear injury. “I couldn’t see it live. I didn’t want to see it after the game. I don’t want to catch the injury. I watched it because I knew I had to talk about it. “It was a very serious foul play. It’s tough to see. I don’t want to watch it again. “Imagine it could have ended his career. The goalkeeper didn’t want to make such a challenge but his decision to make the challenge was wrong. “I believe in fair play and all sportsmen don’t want to injure another. His decision with his foot with this intensity was wrong.”Millwall boss Alex Neil defended his player’s actions – despite not watching the incident back.He said: “He’s misjudged it and caught the lad. He has mistimed it. “”I don’t think it is meant. I don’t think there is any intent, why would there be intent? “We don’t want the lad to be injured. We wish him well and hope he is back on the pitch soon. “It was a mistiming, he was sent off, he is disappointed and will hope Mateta is fine, which we all do.”Medics carried Mateta off the Selhurst Park pitchCredit: PAThe ambulance was waiting at the corner of the groundCredit: BBCParish’s fury was clear to see as he reenacted the shocking foul in the standsCredit: BBCPalace boss Oliver Glasner was left horrified by the injury, saying: “I didn’t want to watch the injury. “I watched it because I knew I had to talk about it. It was a very serious foul play. It’s tough to see. “I don’t want to watch it again. Imagine it could have ended his career. READ MORE SUN STORIES”He didn’t want to make such a challenge but his decision to make the challenge was wrong. “I believe in fair play and all sportsmen don’t want to injure another. His decision with his foot with this intensity was wrong.” More

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      ‘He’s NOT real’ – Arsenal fans in awe of 15-year-old Max Dowman’s highlight reel despite FA Youth Cup loss vs Man Utd

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      ARSENAL fans were left in awe at 15-year-old Max Dowman’s performance in the FA Youth Cup against Manchester United. The Gunners were beaten 3-2 at the Emirates by United – but it was still Dowman who stole the show.Arsenal fans were left in awe at 15-year-old Max DowmanCredit: GettyMidfielder Dowman had fans playing his highlights on repeat after a series of stunning runs and passes.At 1-1, he even won a spot-kick and scored to leave supporters believing they have a superstar on their hands. One said: “Max Dowman is NOT REAL! An absurd run, picking it up in his own third and winning a penatly, while taking on the entire Manchester United team. “Dowman steps up and converts from the spot.” READ MORE ON Arsenal Another hailed: “He’s going to be playing in the first team before we know it. Fans should keep their eyes on this one.” One lauded: “Max Dowman is an absolute beauty of a footballer. Such a problem-solver, this kid. “Brilliant technical tools at his disposal and a proper big brain.”Another said: “Max Dowman is 15 and he has no business in academy football. Wild.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSGooners were calling for Dowman to make his senior debut – having already trained with the first-team.But no player below the under-16 age group can be included in a matchday squad, per tournament regulations.And Dowman has been listed in Arsenal’s U15 side. Arteta said in January: “We have Max and many other kids it’s a big opportunity for us to see them in our environment and it’s clear on the rules with age restrictions at the moment.”It’s very difficult to change that as well.”Dowman is not the only academy kid to have caught Arteta’s eye with another starlet seen as one for the future.Dowman with Arsenal manager Mikel ArtetaCredit: Getty More

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      Are there FA Cup replays in the fifth round? Extra-time and penalties rules explained

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      THE FA Cup fifth round is underway with some huge ties taking place.And Football’s oldest competition is taking a slightly different look this season.All eyes are on the iconic FA Cup as the fifth round beginsLast term, Manchester United stunned neighbours Manchester City to win the trophy with a 2-1 victory at Wembley in May.Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo scored the goals as the red half of Manchester went wild in the capital.The win kept Erik ten Hag in a job for a few more months before he was sacked in October.However, in this season’s FA Cup, there is a major change which was already kicked off from the first round proper.Manchester United are the current holdersCredit: RexAre there replays in the FA Cup fifth round?From this season, there will not be replays in the FA Cup fifth round.Instead, the games that are level after 90 minutes will straight head into extra-time and then potentially penalties.This has been the case from the first round proper this season.FA chiefs agreed extra payments to compensate clubs for the abolition of all replays.Most read in FA CupAll 32 teams eliminated at the last 64 stage will be paid £25,000 from Wembley funds, with the winners each receiving £115,000.What are the FA Cup fifth round ties?Friday, February 28Aston Villa 2-0 Cardiff CitySaturday, March 112.15pm – Crystal Palace v Millwall12:15pm – Preston North End v Burnley3pm – Bournemouth v Wolverhampton Wanderers5.45pm – Manchester City v Plymouth ArgyleSunday, March 21.45pm – Newcastle United v Brighton & Hove Albion4.30pm – Manchester United v FulhamMonday, March 37.30pm – Nottingham Forest v Ipswich Town More

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      Aston Villa 2 Cardiff 0: Asensio double as Emery’s side labour to win to become first team in FA Cup quarter-final pot

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      MARCO ASENSIO has won 17 major honours with Real Madrid and Paris Saint Germain.But the Spaniard only has one Spanish and one French Cup to show for his efforts.Marco Asensio was the man of the hour as Aston Villa beat Cardiff 2-0Credit: PAVilla have now booked a place in the quarter-finalsCredit: GettyHowever he set himself up for a crack at a unique hat-trick at Wembley in May by firing the double which sent Aston Villa into their first FA Cup quarter-final since 2015.With a little help from another FA Cup newcomer… semi-automated offside technology!The new high-tec system was a hit as it swiftly decided Marcus Rashford was marginally ONSIDE in the build up to Asensio’s breakthrough goal after 68 minutes.Youri Tielemans’ clever chip sprang the former Manchester United man who was playing on the shoulder of a Cardiff defender.Read More in FootballAnd when Rashford squared the ball, Asensio swept the ball past Ethan Horvath to finally break the Bluebirds resistance.Normally we might have spent five minutes waiting for blue and red lines to be drawn and scrutinised.Here the job was done in seconds – and so were Cardiff – when Asensio added a second 12 minutes later to finally bury the Welsh club.There was a sense of “Friends Reunited,” prior to kick-off with plenty of connections between both clubs.Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSVilla played a classy tribute to their former striker and ex-Bluebird Peter Whittingham on their giant video screens before the teams emerged.And there was a banner raised to remember the popular forward who tragically died aged just 35 in March 2020 after suffering a fatal head injury in a fall.Ruben Amorim brings up Marcus Rashford as he vows to talk to Garnacho after Man Utd star stormed down tunnelTwo former Villans, Anwar El Ghazi and Callum Robinson led Cardiff out, with El Ghazi’s two sons among the mascots.There was also a reunion with Villa for Cardiff midfielder Aaron Ramsey – a decade after he was part of the Arsenal team who thumped Villa 4-0 in the 2015 FA Cup final.Unai Emery wasn’t messing about as he fielded close to his the strongest side, starting with fit-again Emi Martinez in goal.But despite boasting a front four of Bailey, Asensio, Rashford and Watkins, Villa found it hard to break through Omer Riza’s thin blue line.Rashford whipped a free kick over the Cardiff wall but it sailed into the waiting gloves of stand-in goalie Ethan Horvath.The American goalie then fielded a curling effort from John McGinn before Rashford had a clean air swipe at the ball after Youri Tielemans picked him out from a corner-kick routine.Ollie Watkins timed his run to perfection to get on the end of Asensio’s slide rule pass but his poked effort was touched fractionally wide by Horvath.Ramsey hurled himself in front of Tielemans to block the Belgian in front of goal before the Bluebirds broke upfield to create a bit of FA Cup history.As El Ghazi burst into the box Ian Maatsen barged him to the ground with a good old-fashioned shoulder-charge.No fewer than THREE VAR assistants, Robert Jones, Darren England and “Additional Video Assistant Referee,” Paul Howard (no, me neither) were poised to review it.Until the semi-automated offside system kicked in and judged the Dutchman as offside.Fortunately the players are not automated… yet… because if they were Villa would have been four or five up by half-time.Instead, Marcus Rashford and Ollie Watkins went in at the break, red-faced, following a couple of embarrassing misses.Bailey had just been denied an opener when his ferocious volley was brilliantly turned over by Horvath when he turned provider.The Jamaican international got round Cardiff’s back five and took Horvath out with a fiercely hit cut-back.Rashford was unmarked three yards from goal but failed to get his footwork right and somehow fired over the gaping net.He will argue the ball arrived slightly behind him but it was a chance a player of his quality would expect to gobble up 99 times out of 100.Not to be outdone, Watkins also missed a snip.He ran onto a Rashford header, only to poke his shot off Horvath’s chest from point-blank range with the goal at his mercy.In fact Cardiff were unlucky not to win a penalty when Lamare Bogarde clipped Perry Ng’s boot to send him tumbling in the box.But the one-way traffic continued after the break with Horvath producing a couple of wonder saves to defy McGinn and Rashford.READ MORE SUN STORIESCardiff had brought Yousef Salech on for the injured Robinson and the sub managed Cardiff’s only shot on target after 66 minutes, forcing Emi Martinez into a fine save low to his left.Ninety seconds later Asensio struck to cement his love-affair with Villa fans on a night when he doubled his tally to four goals since arriving on loan in January. More

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      How Man Utd could clinch a win in Fulham and the Man City star who LOVES the FA Cup – Weekend Wager’s best bets

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      SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager uses in-depth stats and razor-sharp analysis to bring you the best value bets from the upcoming bumper weekend of sport.Joining our very own Will Pugh on this week’s show is football journalist Kweku Afari and Betfair betting expert Sam Rosbottom.Man Utd’s clash with Fulham is one to watch this weekendCredit: AFPThe panel analyse this weekend’s biggest FA Cup matches, including Manchester United’s clash with Fulham and Plymouth Argyle’s trip to the Etihad Stadium where they face Manchester City.Check out all our best bets for the weekend below, in association with Betfair.Manchester City vs Plymouth ArgyleKweku Afari: Manchester City to win & Kevin De Bruyne to score – 11/8″No player has been involved in more Cup goals than De Bruyne. In 26 games he’s got nine goals and 17 assists.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLKevin De Bruyne has nine goals and 17 assists in 26 Cup appearancesCredit: Getty”He’s a man who can rise up, and I wouldn’t say it’s a big occasion, but against lower league opposition I think we’ll see Kevin De Bruyne come to the fore against a team, in Plymouth, who are just happy to be there.”Will Pugh: Man City to score 4+ goals – 5/2″There’s not loads of value in games like this really because the odds are so overwhelmingly in the Premier League team’s favour.”But I just fancy it, they have struggled a bit recently.Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Man City have won their last 18 FA Cup games against lower-league sides by an aggregate score of 69-9 so they absolutely love it in this competition.”They don’t faff around when it comes to playing the lower-league teams and their last defeat against someone from a lower division was 1-0 against Wigan Athletic in the 2017/18 season in the same round as this.”Alejandro Garnacho’s punishment for Man Utd tunnel strop revealed as Ruben Amorim sheds light on controversySam Rosbottom: Jack Grealish to score or assist & have one or more shots on target – 11/10″Grealish – four goal involvements in two FA Cup starts this season. He’s also had three shots in those two games, one of them being on target.”So a big opportunity for Grealish this weekend against Plymouth.”Jack Grealish could make his mark against PlymouthCredit: PAMan Utd vs FulhamKweku: Man Utd to win & both teams to score – 100/30″Man Utd, surprisingly, have got an incredible record against Fulham despite being dismal, generally, over the last five/six years.”United have lost just one of their last 21 games against Fulham in all competitions, winning 17 of those with three draws in there.”So they are very dominant against the west London side.”And both teams have scored in all four FA Cup ties they have been involved in this season, so there will be goals on both sides but I expect Man Utd to sneak through.”Will: Bruno Fernandes to score – 5/2″He has been a rare shining light in an otherwise grim, dark season for Man Utd.”Fernandes has got 11 goal contributions in his last 11 FA Cup games – seven goals and four assists.”As well, he only failed to register a goal contribution in two of those last 11 FA Cup matches.”He loves this competition. He’s trying to single-handedly drag United to some sort of success this season so I really fancy that he’ll be on the scoresheet at least.”Bruno Fernandes has got 11 goal contributions in his last 11 FA Cup gamesCredit: ReutersSam: Sander Berge to commit 2+ fouls – 6/4″He’s committed 14 in his last 10 games with at least two committed in five of those – including three against Man Utd back in January.”NewburySam: Iroko – 7/2, Billytherealbigred – 9/2, Kandoo Kid – 11/2, Vincenzo – 7/1″Going on to Saturday, looking at the big handicap chase of Saturday at 3:45. Interesting one, there are a couple of horses in here who are going for the Grand National. Iroko, the favourite, currently 7/2.”Billytherealbigred at 9/2 next up, second favourite. And then one that I fancy in this one – Kandoo Kid for Betfair ambassador Paul Nicholls, 11/2 at the minute, course and distance winner. Grand National hopeful as well.”Second in the race last year on heavy ground. So hopefully the rain isn’t as bad going into the weekend and it can go one better this time.”Iroko is the favourite at 7/2Credit: PAChampions TrophySam: South Africa – 8/11, England – evens, Joe Root 50+ runs – 6/4″South Africa haven’t qualified yet. They have to win this game and they are fancied to do so. They’re odds on at 8/11. England, to upset the party for South Africa, even money.”With the reins being off, so to say, you’d hope, one day cricket, that they’re going to go out there and absolutely go for it. I’ve been really impressed with Joe Root, even though England are out, he has been carrying England at times, hasn’t he?”He scored 50 plus runs in three of his last four ODIs. For him to score 50 runs in this one, 6/4, which I think is a great price considering he’s been England’s key man.”Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgREAD MORE SUN STORIESFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More

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      What is semi-automated offside and how will the technology be used in FA Cup 5th round?

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      THE FA Cup fifth round will create history in English football, as semi-automated offsides will be used for the first time.Seven of the eight FA Cup fifth round fixtures will use the new technology, aiming to speed up the VAR offside decision-making process.VAR will introduce the new system, after already introducing in-stadium announcements in the Carabao CupCredit: GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty ImagesManchester United are the current holders of the FA CupCredit: Marc Aspland The TimesPreston vs Burnley will not use the technology, as the new system will only be used in Premier League grounds.The system has already seen success in competitions such as the World Cup, Champions League, Serie A and La Liga.What is semi-automated offside?The semi-automated offside technology uses tracking cameras to help referees know when a player is offside.The technology will help eliminate long wait times in games with VAR, as it will flag when players are offside rather than spending long periods of time drawing lines on still images.Read more FA CupCameras around the ground will track players during the game, and if at any point during a key moment, such as a penalty or red card, a player is offside, the VAR will be sent an alert.It is a similar concept to the semi-automated offsides seen in the World Cup 2022 and the Champions League.However, Tony Scholes, Premier League chief football officer, has said the Premier League have been developing a different system.FA Cup fifth round drawPreston vs Burnley is the only game not using the new technology, as the rest of the ties take place in Premier League grounds.Most read in FA CupThe full draw is available here:Aston Villa vs Cardiff – Fri, Feb 28 – 8pm GMT – ITV1Crystal Palace vs Milwall – Sat, Mar 1 – 12:15pm GMT – BBC OnePreston vs Burnley – Sat, Mar 1 – 12:15pm GMT – BBC iPlayerBournemouth vs WolvesManchester City vs Plymouth – Sat, Mar 1 – 5:45pm GMT – ITV4Newcastle v Brighton – Sun, Mar 2 – 1:45pm GMT – ITV1Man United vs Fulham, Sun, Mar 2 – 4:30pm GMT – BBC OneNottingham Forest vs Ipswich – Mon, Mar 3 – 7:30pm GMT – ITV4 More