Manchester United head coach Erik Ten Hag admitted his team got away with it against Coventry City in the semifinal of the FA Cup on Sunday. The Red Devils took a 3-0 lead with Scott McTominay, Harry Maguire, and Bruno Fernandes finding the back of the net.
However, Coventry gave United a big scare as Ellis Simms, Callum O’Hare and Haji Wright scored to equalize for their team at the Wembley Stadium.
No teams could score in the extra time but United was able to advance to the final of the tournament as they won on penalties by 4-2.
“Mixed feelings, it is clear,” Ten Hag told his postmatch news conference.
“But it’s an achievement to be twice in the FA Cup final in two years. When you are so in control, dominating the game, 3-0 up, we should win it.
“The way we didn’t was not good, and from the 70 minutes to the end we made mistakes. On several occasions we let each other down. Today we got away with it.”
The Dutchman was asked if it was embarrassing to win in such a fashion after having a comprehensive lead.
“No, I can’t see that,” he said.
“At the end of the day it’s about achievement. I see the mistakes we make, but it’s not an embarrassment, it’s a huge achievement.
“[The players] see that there are mixed feelings. We allowed them to return in the game and it’s completely unnecessary.”
The gaffer hailed his players for giving their best against Coventry City and advancing in the competition despite injury woes.
“That would be crazy,” he said. “You need the tools to manage, and with all the injuries we don’t have so many tools. We don’t even have a back four in their best positions.
“On that part, I have to give the team a compliment, the players managed that, they were in a position that is not in their best. They gave 100 percent. It’s not always easy to play the best football when you’re not in your best position.”
Manchester United will face Manchester City in the FA Cup final on 25th May.
