Fellaini: We Needed A Reaction

Marouane Fellaini insisted victory was all that mattered as Manchester United eventually overcame West Ham United to reach the Emirates FA Cup semi-finals.


The recalled midfielder scored the crucial second goal to help the Reds to a 2-1 victory in Wednesday's sixth-round replay at Upton Park, which booked a Wembley date with his former club Everton on 23 April.

Fellaini was delighted with the side’s performance in response to the disappointing 3-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday – even if United were hanging on at the end after James Tomkins' header reduced the Hammers' arrears.

The Belgian told MUTV: "Of course we wanted a reaction from the team – we needed it and we won. We did well for 70 or 80 minutes; we created a lot of chances and kept the ball.

"In the end it was difficult because they pressed so it was more difficult to keep the ball, but today the most important thing was to win the game. Everyone is happy and we have to keep going."

After Marcus Rashford’s sensational curling strike opened the scoring, there was an element of fortune as Fellaini turned the ball home from close range for the decisive goal after Anthony Martial’s shot deflected into his path.

"I knew he [Martial] would miss because it was his left foot!" he joked, after netting his third goal of the season. "I was stood in front of the goal and I just put my knee out towards the target. It was important in the end.

"It’s always nice to score; it’s good for confidence. Now we have a game on Saturday which we have to win in front of our home supporters."

Fellaini also praised 18-year-old striker Rashford, who scored his sixth goal in 11 first-team games to break the deadlock.

"I think it was a great goal and I’m happy for him," Fellaini continued. "At the moment he’s doing well and scoring goals, which is important for the team and a good boost for us, so I hope he’ll keep going and score goals."

Fellaini was part of the Everton side that knocked United out of the FA Cup at the semi-final stage in 2009 but the 28-year-old is now hoping to help the Reds win the competition to bring the season to a successful conclusion.

"When I was at Everton eight years ago, we played the semi-final against United and we won, so this time I hope I am on the winning side again," he added.

"At a club like Manchester United, we have to win something. I think all the players want to do that this season."