Villa beat Everton to reach the Cup semi-finals

Aston Villa have reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup, beating Everton 2-1 at Goodison Park on 20 February.

Steve Stone and Benito Carbone scored for Villa in the first half, and although Carbone was sent off late in the game, Villa held on to book a place in the last four.

A first-half double

Stone gave Villa the lead after 15 minutes, finishing after good work from Ugo Ehiogu. Everton hit back quickly, with Joe-Max Moore equalising five minutes later, and the home side pushed for a second.

But Villa restored their lead just before half-time, when Carbone scored his latest cup goal. The Italian has been in inspired form in the competition, following up his hat-trick against Leeds United in the last round.

A nervy finish

Everton pressed hard in the second half, and Villa had to defend with determination to protect their lead. Their task became harder in the 89th minute, when Carbone was shown a second yellow card and sent off.

But Villa held out, and the final whistle was greeted with delight by the travelling fans, who had filled their section of Goodison Park.

Wembley in sight

Villa are now one game away from the FA Cup final, which will be the last to be played at the old Wembley Stadium before it is demolished and rebuilt.

The semi-final draw will be made shortly. Villa will be hoping to avoid the strongest sides left in the competition, but after beating Leeds and Everton, they will fear nobody.

Gregory's cup kings

Manager John Gregory has turned Villa into a strong cup side this season. As well as their FA Cup run, they reached the semi-finals of the League Cup, where they were beaten by Leicester City.

Their league form has been less impressive, but a place in the FA Cup final would transform their season and could bring European football to Villa Park next year.

Stone's contribution

Stone, a former Nottingham Forest and England midfielder, joined Villa last year and has added energy and experience to the side. His goal at Goodison was a reward for a hard-working display.

Ehiogu, the club's powerful centre-back, has been one of Villa's most consistent players this season and was a key figure in the defensive effort that saw them through a difficult second half.

A proud cup history

Villa have won the FA Cup seven times, more than all but a handful of clubs, but have not lifted the trophy since 1957. Their last appearance in the final was in 1957, when they beat Manchester United 2-1.

Supporters are daring to dream that this could be their year, and that they could be the last team to win the cup at the old Wembley.

For now, they can enjoy a memorable afternoon on Merseyside and look forward to a semi-final at Wembley.