Aston Villa’s resurgence under Unai Emery continued on Sunday as Marcus Rashford’s brace inspired a 3-0 win over Preston North End, sending the Villans into the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in 10 years.
Rashford, revitalised since joining Villa on loan from Manchester United in January, struck twice in the second half at Deepdale to end Preston’s stubborn resistance.
Rashford’s first goal, a clinical finish from 12 yards, came in the 58th minute, and he doubled his tally with a nerveless spot-kick in the 63rd minute.
Jacob Ramsey wrapped up Villa’s long-awaited return to the last four with a powerful strike in the 71st minute.
The win marked a memorable day for Villa, who are now one step away from a first FA Cup final appearance since 2015.
Rashford’s resurgence has been a key factor in Villa’s success, and the England international is beginning to show the form that made him one of the country’s brightest stars before his decline over the past two years.
Deployed in the central striker’s role that often seemed to dent his confidence at United, Rashford was too dynamic for second-tier Preston to handle.
Preston, who were playing in the quarter-finals for the first time since 1966, were unbeaten in their previous 15 home games in all competitions.
However, they were no match for ruthless Villa, who have enjoyed a memorable run to the Champions League quarter-finals and have an outside chance of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
Villa will now join Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, and the winner of Manchester City’s tie against Bournemouth in the semi-finals.
With Rashford in fine form, Villa will be hoping to go all the way and lift the FA Cup for the first time since 1957.
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