Reds Deserve Last-eight Place

Sir Alex Ferguson declared himself pleased following United's 2-0 Carling Cup fourth round victory over Barnsley at Oakwell.

Danny Welbeck and Michael Owen fired home either side of half time to send the Reds through to the last eight. The United boss was pleased with the performance of his young team, and felt his players were well worth the win.

"It was a real cup tie. Barnsley worked very hard and put a lot of effort into the game," Sir Alex said. "They had one or two chances when we went down to ten men, but in the end I think we deserved to get through.

"As well as securing a passage to the quarter-finals, the boss believes the knowledge his youngsters gained away from home was just as invaluable.

Sir Alex said: "Playing away from home in a cup tie is a completely different experience from playing at Old Trafford. Last year we had some good home draws and it was good experience for the lads.

"One of those youngsters was Rafael who made his first appearance of the season. However, rather than slotting in at his usual right-back he started in the rather unfamiliar position of central midfield. According to Sir Alex, this was due to injuries.

"Darron Gibson was injured so we didn't have many options. Rafael trains with the first team all the time, he's a first team player, he's mobile and quick enough with good feet.

"He's good enough to play in there. We thought he was worth a try."

One of the most experienced players on the park in Michael Owen sealed United's win, and in delightful style according to his manager.

"It was a fantastic goal, unbelievable," said Sir Alex. "He showed quick feet and it was a marvellous finish."

The only blips on an otherwise successful evening were a knee injury that forced Welbeck's withdrawal early in the second half - "Danny will have a scan in the morning" - and a red card for Gary Neville. The skipper was dismissed just after the hour for his follow-through on Adam Hammill. Sir Alex felt the referee made the correct decision, despite the full-back appearing to make contact with the ball first.

"Gary has followed through and caught the boy, not high but just above the ankle and in the present climate I think the referee was probably correct. We won't appeal."

Sir Alex's youngsters will now have another chance to show their credentials in the fifth round. The draw will be made this Saturday.