Marcus Rashford ended his four-month goal drought in style, scoring twice to lead Aston Villa to a 3-0 FA Cup quarter-final victory over Preston North End at Deepdale.
The Manchester United loanee, who had not found the net since December 1, finally broke his barren spell in the 58th minute, tapping home a Lucas Digne cutback. Just five minutes later, he confidently converted a penalty after Morgan Rogers was fouled, sending Preston goalkeeper David Cornell the wrong way.
Jacob Ramsey sealed the win with a stunning third, booking Villa’s first FA Cup semi-final since 2015. They will now face in-form Crystal Palace at Wembley as they chase their first FA Cup title since 1957.
Speaking after the match, Rashford admitted the goals were a relief and credited Villa’s environment for helping him regain confidence.
“It’s a great feeling,” he told the BBC. “I’ve been getting fitter and playing better football since I’ve been here. It’s always nice for a forward to get a goal—hopefully, it continues.”
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart weighed in on Rashford’s resurgence, suggesting that the stability provided by Unai Emery has played a crucial role in his improvement.
“At United, there were always questions—where should he play? How should he be used?” Hart said. “At Villa, there are no doubts. He has a clear role, clear instructions, and he’s thriving.”
Hart also highlighted the difference in coaching approaches, emphasizing Emery’s ability to bring out the best in his players.
“Unai Emery isn’t questioned in the media because he’s established himself. Rashford is in a team that believes in him, and that’s making the difference.”
With Rashford rediscovering his form, Villa fans will hope he can fire them all the way to FA Cup glory.
