Ronaldo sends United into semis

Cristiano Ronaldo earned Manchester United a vital penalty to seal a 1-0 win against Middlesbrough in the FA Cup quarter final.

The winger scored from the spot to take United through to the FA Cup semi-final against Watford.

The penalty was awarded after he was brought down by Jonathan Woodgate late in the second half.

The visitors carved out at least as many half chances as their hosts, with Viduka going close with a snap-shot.

Bereft of clear opportunities, the contest seemed destined to see its opening goal three minutes before the break when Ryan Giggs set Wayne Rooney free with a superb through ball.

But when he attempted to round Schwarzer, the Australian simply stuck out an arm and took the ball away.

In the second half Ronaldo also rounded the Boro keeper but rolled his shot against the post.

Rooney then had a clear cut chance to seal the match after being put through by Michael Carrick.

But Schwarzer saved with his right foot.

Tempers frayed in injury time with substitute James Morrison dismissed for a reckless lunge on Ronaldo.

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