Michael was delighted to convert his side's second after Steven Gerrard's first-half effort deflected off David Beckham and past Fabien Barthez.

The England striker said: ``That was the first real chance, against Arsenal (in the FA Cup final in 2001) it was the same scenario but you always have to be alive as a striker.

``When you have a back four as strong as ours you may as well make use of it. There is still a bit to go and achieve but it's great to get the first trophy in the bag.''

Owen scored twice at the Millennium Stadium in that famous FA Cup win and added: ``Certain grounds give you a buzz and it's a lucky ground for us.

``I'm delighted for everyone. The players have taken a bit of stick and it's nice for everyone connected to the club.''

Goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek was equally instrumental. He said: ``I'm very pleased, the team performance was fantastic and I think we deserved it today.

 

``It's a little payback (for me), a great week for us to win against Auxerre and a massive win today.

``There was pressure on me before the game but I concentrated and the boss said you will be the hero, I believe in you.''

Danny Murphy added: ``It was a great win. The lads performed well, they did brilliantly.

``Days like this don't come round very often and United deserve credit for making it a game and a half.''

Midfielder lion, Steven Gerrard, who set his side on their way, said: ``The goal settled us down. We were slow out of the blocks but I thought we came into the game and played well.

``The goal got a bit of a deflection but who cares, as long as it goes in the back of net.''