The memorable triumph sent Rafael Benitez's side into the FA Cup quarter-finals to continue their bid for the prestigious title which they last won in 2001.

English international striker Peter Crouch sent the winner home in the 19th minute when he towered to a Steve Finnan cross and headed past United's keeper Edwin Van Der Sar.

Finnan missed an easy chance to double the lead six minutes later when he was found unmarked by Steven Gerrard's cross but his effort went inches wide.

United's defender Wes Brown almost scored in his won goal just after re-start when he headed John Arne Riise's cross just over the bar.

Manchester United lost French defender Mikael Silvestre and Alan Smith during the game due to injuries.