Sheffield United 0-0 Arsenal
Arsenal win 4-2 on penalties
The FA Cup, Fifth Round Replay
01 March 2005
Bramall Lane



Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger paid tribute to his under-strength side after they won their FA Cup Fifth Round replay at Sheffield United, winning a penalty shoot-out after the match finished goal-less at the end of extra time.

He said: "We showed determination and character. I’m very proud of the attitude of the team which was completely right.

"Sheffield can be proud of their performance because they never gave up for 120 minutes. We can be proud of our performance as well."

The Gunners won 4-2 on penalties with Lauren, Patrick Vieira, Freddie Ljungberg and Ashley Cole all converting their spot-kicks.

Blades pair Andy Gray and Phil Jagielka tucked away their penalties, but Alan Quinn’s effort was saved by Manuel Almunia and Jon Harley also failed to find the back of the net.

Arsenal’s Dennis Bergkamp, Jose Reyes and Robin van Persie were all suspended while Thierry Henry, Robert Pires, Sol Campbell, Edu and Gilberto were injured.

Michael Tonge spurned a superb chance in the opening minute of the match, lifting the ball over from the edge of the six-yard box after being set-up by
Gray.

Blades keeper kept Arsenal at bay with a string of good saved in normal time, notably from Cesc Fabregas and Quincy Owusu-Abeyie.

Harley went close to snatching a winner at the death with a flying header that was tipped over by Almunia.

Arsenal had the better chances to win in extra-time with Jeremie Aliadiere’s shot well saved by Kenny at his near post.

Blades boss Neil Warnock praised his team’s effort. He said: "I felt we played it in the right way and made for a fantastic FA Cup tie. They’ll not have a harder match this season.

"I’ve got nothing but credit for all of the players. It was a fantastic night for the whole club."

Arsenal now face a Sixth Round trip to Bolton Wanderers.