Coral’s FA Cup Team of the Round: Quarter-finals

So, we know at least two semi-finalists for the FA Cup this season; Arsenal and Aston Villa, with Bradford and Reading set to battle out a replay at the Madejski, while Blackburn Rovers did brilliantly to earn a second bite at the cherry against Liverpool.

With that in mind, we bring you our FA Cup team of the round, carefully selected according to an individual’s performance over 90 minutes. Read on to discover who made it!

Goalkeeper: David de Gea
Manchester United might have lost, though the Spain stopper was exceptional. Had it not been for him Louis van Gaal’s team would have conceded at least two more. Alexis Sanchez looked a cert to score, while Santi Cazorla must have thought his half-volley was in. On both occasions De Gea showed world class athleticism and reflexes to scoop the ball away.

Right back: Leandro Bacuna
Was a consistent threat for Aston Villa a right back and was clearly motivated by the derby atmosphere. He defended well, showing tenacity in the tackle and will be key for Tim Sherwwod’s side for the rest of the season.

Centre back: Alex Baptiste
Set-piece threat Baptiste provided the total package in a hard-earned 0-0 draw for Rovers, looking comfortable and composed on the ball.

Centre back: Matthew Kilgallon
Outstanding for Blackburn against Liverpool and put in a match-winning performance, keeping the likes of Daniel Sturridge and Mario Balotelli at bay. It’s unbelievable to think that the former Leeds player is 31, and looked like a sprightly twenty-something against the Reds.

Left back: Nacho Monreal
A superb finish against United as Arsenal took the lead at Old Trafford. Giving De Gea the eyes from an acute angle, he caught the keeper out at the near post, dinking it delicately into the net.

Right wing: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Probably the best player on the pitch until he went off injured midway through the second half. Oxlade-Chanberlain’s direct runs caused the Red Devils all manner of problems, and it was thanks to his great work in the area, dancing past attempted challenges, which set up Monreal.