Everton 0 - 2 Manchester United 2

Saturday 19 February
Old Trafford

It was billed as the return of the King, with former fans-favourite Wayne Rooney returning to his previous stomping ground in Liverpool. the fans were ready with effigies, harsh words, and mobiles phones, and the only thing that upset the angry mob was the fact that Wayne didn't lose his temper, oh, and that they lost without actually putting up a fight.

With the AC game so close it was believed that an under-strength team would be usd to play out a meaningless cup match, following Arsenal's lead in blooding youngsters. Whilst the press believed that, it was never in Fergie's mind, and the only players rested were Giggs and Van Nistelrooy, who will both feature heavily (hopefully) in Wednesday's game!

After ten minutes of winning each-other's respect, it was United who started to dominate, with Ronaldo running rings round the Everton players, and Keane and Scholes winning their usual midfield tussle with Carsley and Hibbert.

The first goal had been coming for a while, and when it did, it wasn't down to the ginger scouser. Ronaldo received the ball in his own half and went on a mazy run past various Everton players, wrong-footing Hibbert and then crossing the ball into Quinton Fortune, who powerfully headed home.

Chances came and went, with Heinze close from a free-kick, and Rooney having his one chance saved by Martyn, who was having a good game.
The second half saw a new vigour from Everton, but this was effectively distinguished with Ronaldo's goal five minutes in. Scholes smashed a free-kick at Martyn, only for it to be deflected. the keeper scrambled to push the ball out, but could only succeed in pushing the ball to Ronaldo's feet, and he lashed home.

With the result in no doubt, the Everton fans decided they should concentrate on intimidating the Reds, with the sorry outcome being investigated by the FA. Fans threw everything from mobiles to coins and bottle-tops at the players, but it was only the fact that Carroll was hit by one that pushed the FA into action. A hefty fine should make Everton think more about educating their fans, and its not like they're not used to losing!

The rest of the game was played out with United enjoying posession, and the stage was set for Wayne to score, and finally prove that he cares nothing for Everton anymore. He picked up the ball midway in their half, gallopped forwards into the box, and shot, trying to curl it around the keeper, but Martyn saved, and the peace was maintained, for now at least.