Manchester United against Crystal Palace

Valencia crosses. Cleared again.

Gibson shoots from distcance. Deflected out for a throw-in.

Diouf heads goalwards - superb block from Gardner near the line.

Evans with an important tackle to stop Zaha running clean through. The youngster is suffering with cramp but is still a threat.

United have been passing it around the same 20-yard square outside the box for most of extra-time, unable to penetrate.

United trying desperately to get through Palace's stern defence but having absolutely no luck. Wonderful stuff from Palace's backline.

Zaha challenged by Evans and United look to drive forward again.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/1130/glennmurraygoalvcpfc20111130_275x155.jpg"><br> Glenn Murray's goal is the difference between the sides at present.

You can feel the frustration setting in among the United fans. It's anxious stuff at Old Trafford.

United still patient - Smalling plays in Park but McCarthy clears it away. He has played a crucial role for Palace.

Smalling and Valencia combine to good effect down the right for United.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/yellow_card.jpg" height="15"> Gibson. Fully justified.

Gibson trips Murray - so cynical from the midfielder.

United really lacking any sort of spark in attack. Valencia has been the one looking most likely to provide it, but he must be getting pretty knackered now.

The last time United lost a home tie in the Carling Cup was against Coventry in 2007. The Red Devils have won eight in a row since then.

Evans concedes the free-kick in the centre-circle, with Murray showing great strength against the United centre-back.

Murray with a hopeful effort that curls comfortably over the bar.

An early cross from Smalling but Price has it in his hands.

Second half of extra-time begins.

As things stand, United heading out of the Carling Cup at the same stage as last year.

<b>Half-time in extra-time: Man Utd 1-2 Crystal Palace. </b>

Pogba shoots miles over the bar from 18 yards out.

Palace continuing to frustrate the reigning Premier League champions.

Untied buliding possesion patiently at the moment.

Dikgacoi tries an effort from the lafway line after Amos' clearance reached him. But the United keeper made it back in time.

Park again with space on the right, Palace defending resolutely.

Park crosses from the right, McCarthy heads clear.

Ambrose strikes it from 35 yards and it's another unbelievable shot. Really good save from Amos to prevent it from going into the top corner.

Okay, golden may be over-exaggerating but it was a good chance. He got in behind McCarthy but poked the ball well wide and didn't even test Price from about 12 yards out.

Macheda misses a golden chance.

Gibson strikes it well on the volley from 20 yards out but it's the wrong side of the post.

United corner now. Pogba to take.

Perhaps a hint of offside but the quality of the delivery certainly deserved a goal.

<b>Man Utd 1-2 Palace. </b>Murray stoops to head in Ambrose's teasing cross.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/goal.gif"> <b>GOAL</b> Murray

Ambrose to swing it in from the left.

Zaha wins a free-kick after fooling Park with another delightful piece of skill.

Again Palace able to stand their ground.

Valencia wins a corner after his shot hits McCarthy.

Palace fans in full voice - the home supporters have not been too loud tonight.

Diouf and Pogba seem to get in each other's way and any potential danger is avoided for Palace.

Gibson gets hold of the ball and strikes a great left-foot effort. Deflected away for a corner.

Park and Valencia interchange on the right.

Fryers combines with Pogba, who sends the ball to the other wing. Loose pass from Macheda and the move breaks down.

Park shoots wide after cutting in onto his left-foot. I'll let you guess what he did with the shot. That's right, dragged.

It's just occurred to me that Park has been playing right-back since Rafael went off. He's done okay.

And Chris Foy blows for the start of extra-time...

Nearly ready for the off for the next 30 minutes.

<b>Man Utd 1-1 Palace</b>. Macheda's penalty equalised Ambrose's scorching strike and we're heading into extra-time. Both sides have made all their subs.

There's the full-time whistle. It's extra-time at Old Trafford.

Palace on the break, Zaha goes alone again but shoots straight into Amos' grateful grasp.

Great header by Evans, who then feeds Morrison with a great ball hugging the left-wing. Clyne sprints back and covers well. The young right-back has been good tonight.

Palace corner now and it's the Londoners who have looked most like scoring.

I thought Murray had just scored as the net rippled. But it was the side netting after a shot from an acute angle on the right-edge of the box.

Palace still holding firm and looking for a winner themselves.

Morrison emerges into some space on the edge of the box but drags his shot wide. He's certainly not the first player to do that tonight.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/1130/darrenambrosecelebvmufc20111130_275x155.jpg"><br> Darren Ambrose celebrates his wonder strike.

<i>Stat attack: Palace goalscorer Darren Ambrose has netted in six of his last nine games in cup competitions. </i>

Parr does well to handle Park - the Palace defender has been superb in the second half.

It's been all Palace for the last five minutes or so.

Ambrose tries another from distance (who can blame him) but it hits Smalling.

He finds Ambrose, who in turn finds Dikgacoi. Smalling gets a vital foot in.

Zaha speeds away, going alone at the moment.

Amos came to punch but ended up on the floor. Fortunately for him, United were able to clear. He was nowhere near the ball there.

Palace corner now, their second in as many minutes.

Valencia crosses to Macheda, who takes an excellent first touch but can't get a strike away with his second. Surrounded by yellow shirts.

Smalling miscontrols the ball and Palace in a stong position. The deep cross finds Ambrose but he can't direct his header goalwards.

Valencia drives towards the Palace penalty area but McCarthy gets a toe in as Morrison looked to latch onto the ball.

Macheda won the ball for United on the edge of the Palace area but Diouf was standing in the way and offside. Diouf tonight = unimpressive.

Valencia unsurprisingly looking like United's major threat at the moment.

<i>Stat attack: The last time Palace met United in the League Cup, goals from Richardson and Saha gave the Red Devils a 2-0 win in 2004. </i>

Zaha runs at Smalling but the centre-back stands his ground.

Diouf creates space on the left of the box. He cuts in and skies his effort into row Z.

Palace still looking much more positive again now.

Curse of the commentator: Dikgacoi gives it away.

Good football in midfield from Palace, keeping the ball well.

Murray missed a pen at the weekend, can he give himself the ultimate confidence boost by scoring the winner at Old Trafford?

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Murray on for Easter.

Palace about to make their last change.

Parr once more getting into a crossing position and it went towards the danger zone. Well held by Amos.

Palace pushing now, Zaha finally seeing the ball again.

Parr accelerates away from Park down the left-wing but his cross goes all the way through to the far side. Good break from the left-back.

We should be in for an enjoyable final 20 minutes now. Finely poised at the moment. Extra-time and penalties may await.

So the lead lasted just three minutes. The right decision by the referee - a silly tug of the shirt by McCarthy.

<b>Man Utd 1-1 Crystal Palace</b>. Coolly slotted by Macheda, bottom left-hand corner with Price sent the wrong way.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/goal.gif"> <b>GOAL</b> Macheda

Macheda steps up...

Penalty for United, Macheda puleld back by McCarthy.

That was Ambrose's third goal in the competition this season.

Pogba with his own fiercely-struck shot from distance, tipped over by Price.

Wow, what a shock that is. Now we'll see what United's youngsters are made of.

<b>Man Utd 0-1 Crystal Palace</b>. What. A. Goal. All of 30 yards out, he smashes it into the top left-hand corner. Palace fans jubilant.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/goal.gif"> <b>GOAL</b> Ambrose with a screamer.

Pogba's first touch is to win a header in midfield.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Pogba on for Rafael.

Rafael looks to have an injury problem now. Seriosuly, these Brazilian twins need to take some vitamin supplements.

Macheda has scored just once in his last 17 games.

Macheda the latest to strike goalwards, a good turn to get away from McCarthy but his left-foot shot is high and wide.

United starting to find more gaps now.

Gibson has looked much better since half-time. I know I've given him plenty of stick but he's at least showing some desire to drop off and take responsibility for bringing the ball forward from defence.

Shot from Morrison, who found space on the inside-right of the box. Really smart save from Price with his feet.

<i>Stat attack: Palace have averaged a goal a game on their travels this season, winning four of their nine away matches.</i>

Great run from Rafael, but his cross can't find Diouf or Macheda.

Ambrose looks towards Easter, but the attempted pass is well beyond his team-mate.

Clyne with a good challenge on Diouf but then subsequently gives the ball back to a red shirt.

United's possession 75% to Palace's 25% so far in the second half. It tells a true story.

United looking significantly brighter since the interval. Palace struggling to get hold of the ball.

Good strike from Morrison just outside the area, which stung the hands of Price.

I must stress that I'm not actually sure whether Berbatov is injured or not. I hope for the sake of his career that he is.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/1130/kagishodikgacoi,dimitarberbatov20111130_275x155.jpg"><br> Dimitar Berbatov: Withdrawn at half-time after a disappointing opening 45.

A second look shows that it was an excellent save from Price.

Valencia misses a glorious chance. He took the ball off Gardner and accelerated clear but slotted his effort wide of the far left post.

Good delivery but Evans jumps too early and the ball is out for a goal-kick.

Park with a direct run and Parr brings him down. Free-kick United on the right, about 25-30 yards out. Gibson to swing it in.

Super turn from Valencia as Unite pour forward. Gibson gets to the edge of the box and drags a poorly-struck left-foot effort wide.

Gibson picks out Fryers with a pinpoint crossfield pass. Finally, a decent moment from the United midfielder.

Fryers gives the ball away to Zaha but United soon retrieve the ball.

Diouf with a great reverse ball to Fryers, but he can't get a decent cross in.

An early touch for Morrison but he gives the ball away.

Moxey's withdrawal for Palace down to that injury he picked up at the end of the first half.

What an embarrassment for Berbatov. He did very little in the first half though.

And we're off in the second half...

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Ambrose on for Moxey.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Ravel Morrison on for Berbatov.

To be fair, it's a good point!

Massive lack of optimism from @kamalmatt on Twitter: "<i>No creativity in utd squad right now. And no anderson and cleverley, utd in deep trouble until christmas.</i>"

The big news in the Premier League tonight is that Sunderland have sacked Steve Bruce - <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/990377/struggling-sunderland-sack-bruce?cc=5739" target="_blank">you can read the full story here.</a>

Absolutely, there were three in the space of about five minutes - to Amos' credit he did really well getting them clear.

Comment on Twitter from @RaceAudio: "<i>United defense feeling a bit suicidal today with those back passes?!</i>"

I'd be inclined to agree with that, was looking forward to seeing some more of Pogba, who was pretty decent in the second-half against Aldershot. Quite surprised that Gibson is still a Manchester United player.

Comment from @LB_CityOfVan on Twitter: "<i>Why fergie isn't giving Pogba a run is absurd. Especially with United's centre midfield problems. Gibson is awful</i>"

And if you want to have your say on the game on Twitter - <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/marklomasESPN" target="_blank">@marklomasESPN is the place to vent your spleen</a>.

Remember, for all the goals updates and chat from tonight's Europa League games, <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/live/_/id/990348/matchday-live---europa-league,-carling-cup?cc=5739" target="_blank">join Dec Warrington now.</a>

<b>HT: Man Utd 0-0 Crystal Palace. </b> Palace gave a really good acocunt of themselves, with Zaha the undoubted star of the show. But United began to dominate towards the end of the half, and losing Scannell will be a big blow for the visitors.

There goes the half-time whistle.

In the middle of that group rising for the ball was Moxey - he looks to have fallen painfully on his ankle as he hit the ground.

Fryers with a teasing left-wing cross but Price claims the ball really well under pressure from Diouf and Valencia.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Parr on for Scannell.

One of Rafael's two tackles was on Scannell and there was a heavy impact on the leg he hurt before. It's a real shame, but he's coming off now.

Valencia crosses and Diouf does fantastically to engineer an acrobatic overhead kick. He couldn't keep it down though.

Rafael with a superb double interception allows United to break.

Old Trafford looking embarrassingly empty tonight, I must say. Interested to hear what United claim the attendance to be.

Gibson looks long for Mahceda but Price is out quickly to collect.

Sustained period of possession for United over the past few minutes - much more patience in the home team's approach.

Smalling almost pickpocketed by Easter but just got away with it after dwelling on the ball in the centre circle.

Diouf has been moved to the left, with Macheda now joining Berbatov up front. Must have been the foul throw.

I saw Fryers up close when United beat Aldershot in the last round - he looked really good going forward but some question marks over him defensively.

Fryers on his first overlap only succeeds in over-hitting a cross from the left.

That was an injury-related sub - Fabio looked to have pulled his hamstring. I worry about what the Brazilian twins will be like in five years time - they seem to be rather injury prone already.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Fryers on for Fabio.

Valencia gives the ball away cheaply to O'Keefe. He feeds Scannell who drags his right-foot shot wide from 25 yards out.

Scannell back on - let's face it, he wants to play for as long as possible at Old Trafford.

Macheda fouls Clyne and Palace have a right-wing free-kick.

The exact problem is not clear, looks to have a bit of soreness on his knee.

Dougie Freedman looking pretty concerned at the moment and it could well be the end of Scannell's evening.

The physios are on and Scannell now getting some attention.

Scannell looks in a bit of pain after being clattered by Valencia - a classic heavy shoulder barge from the Ecuadorian.

Foul throw from Diouf deep in Palace territory. Just so appalling that a professional footballer can give away a foul throw. Rubbish.

I seem to remember Fabio was red carded in a League Cup clash with Wolves last season - he'd better be careful with two thirds of this game still remaining.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/yellow_card.jpg" height="15"> Fabio booked for a foul on Zaha, who else.

Rafael in plenty of space on the right after a defence-splitting pass from Valencia. The full-back drills in a cross, but it's too high for Macheda.

He's having a cracking battle with Fabio at the moment. The Brazilian just won the latest round, showing good physicality to keep the ball.

Really hope Zaha doesn't go the same way as Victor Moses and move on from Palace too soon. He's 19 and looks a real prospect. Best player on the pitch by a distance thus far.

There was a wonderful piece of skill by Zaha at the start of the move, which saw him evade the clutches of Macheda.

Evans blocks Scannell's shot from just inside the box. Palace corner.

Moxey really has his hands full with Valencia - he's doing an admirable job so far but I fear for him in the second half.

Possession stats show that both Palace and United have had 25% of the ball in the opposition third so far.

Berbatov looks in some pain after being penalised himself for climbing all over McCarthy.

Lazy pass from Berbatov after Park had opened up some space.

Zaha again with a positive run into the box, but his shot ended up in the stands again.

Scannell turns on the burners down the left and despite initially looking second best, Gibson makes a good sliding interception.

Great move from United, penetrating run from Valencia and he scoops a lobbed pass towards Berbatov. The Bulgarian shoots wide on the volley.

No problems for goalkeeper Price, though, as he collects the ball easily.

Gibson shoots from distance and it's deflected out for a corner.

Lovely turn from Berbatov and he escapes Moxey with a drop of the shoulder.

Not used particularly well by Palace though.

Zaha tripped by Fabio and Palace have a free-kick.

Amos again given a poor pass to deal with, Rafael the latest culprit. The keeper was out quickly to hoof clear.

Looking at a replay, it was outside the box - was a clumsy challenge nonetheless.

But the referee shakes his head.

Penalty shout for Palace, Zaha gets the wrong side of Fabio and looked to be pulled down.

Another really poor back pass for Amos to deal with - this time from Evans. The goalkeeper again handles it well with a left-foot volley to clear.

Rafael brings down Zaha a touch cynically in the centre-circle to concede a free-kick.

United probing away now, with Park and Valencia looking for an opening. The South Korean found some space in the area but couldn't get the ball out from under his feet.

Palace haven't scored in their last five games but I'm not sure how - looks to be plenty of attacking verve out there tonight.

Zaha again looking to accelerate away, but Smalling gets their first and delivers a hospital pass back to Amos, who does well to clear from a difficult angle.

<i>Stat attack:</i> Palace have tasted victory in each of their last three League Cup quarter-finals against top-flight opposition.

Scannell brings Palace forward and they're sniffing around the United penalty area

Amazing - Palace fans have started the 'ole's' already, as their side control possession in midfield.

The ball drops to Rafael about 25 yards out but his left-foot volley was optimistic and unsurprisingly goes wide.

Macheda gets to the byline and crosses in with his left foot. Wright heads it out for a United corner.

Berbatov and Macheda exchange passes down the left as United look to calm things down a tad.

Fantastic opening, particularly from Palace.

Easter gets beyond Evans and looks to be through. But just as he's about to pull the trigger, Smalling gets a crucial foot in.

Gibson aims a long ball towards Diouf but the forward's touch is heavy.

Positive run from Nathaniel Clyne down the right and Palace really showing no fear.

Zaha again with an excellent series of touches in midfield to create some space. Looking impressive so far.

Zaha breaks at pace - running all of 60 yards on his own, but as he gets to the edge of the box he fires a shot high and over.

Gibson delivers but it's headed clear.

Valencia down the wing early on and United immediately have a corner on the right.

And we're off...

Berbatov and Diouf to get us under way.

In fact, I lie - it's a minute's applause. I always think it is a much better way of paying tribute. "There's only one Gary Speed" is the chant going around Old Trafford. A nice touch from the United and Palace fans.

We're almost ready for kick-off now, but first there is a minute's silence in tribute to Gary Speed.

For all the goals updates and chat from tonight's Europa League games, <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/live/_/id/990348/matchday-live---europa-league,-carling-cup?cc=5739" target="_blank">join Dec Warrington now.</a>

Comment on Twitter from @ChazAaronCamp: <i>"If United's midfield shows up to play, I've got a 3-1 (UTD) prediction."</i>

History lesson over and back to the present day - Palace boast a talented young squad, with forwards Wilfred Zaha and Sean Scannell the pick of their starters, while full-back Nathaniel Clyne has also been catching the eye in the Championship this season.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/1130/leemartinfacupfinal1990goal20111130_275x155.jpg"><br>Lee Martin lashes home Man Utd's winner against Crystal Palace in the 1990 FA Cup final replay

There is of course history between United and tonight's visitors Crystal Palace - it was against the south Londoners that Sir Alex Ferguson claimed his first trophy with the Red Devils back in 1990. A goal from full-back Lee Martin gave United a 1-0 win in the FA Cup final replay, after the first match ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw.

It's a very young team for United, with an average age of just under 24 by my reckoning. But still plenty of first-team experience in there with Rafael, Fabio, Evans, Smalling, Berbatov, Park and even Gibson all possesing plenty of United appearances between them.

As always, I'd be keen to hear your thoughts on the game so please do share your musings with me on Twitter - <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/marklomasESPN" target="_blank">@marklomasESPN the place to go</a>.

Hello everyone, Mark Lomas here to take you through all of the action at Old Trafford. After being at Stamford Bridge last night, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a match with just as much needle and controversy. Though I'm not sure if the away side will be winning 2-0 tonight.

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/990174/sir-alex-ferguson-turns-to-youth-against-crystal-palace?cc=5739" target="_blank">he will field a young team on Wednesday night</a>, with the likes of Paul Pogba and Ravel Morrison expected to play a part.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/1130/siralexfergusonanddougiefreedman20111130_275x155.jpg"><br> Glaswegian duo Sir Alex Ferguson and Dougie Freedman will do battle at Old Trafford.

Join us from 19.45 GMT for live text commentary of Manchester United v Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup quarter-finals.

Murray with a hopeful effort that curls comfortably over the bar.

An early cross from Smalling but Price has it in his hands.

Second half of extra-time begins.

As things stand, United heading out of the Carling Cup at the same stage as last year.

<b>Half-time in extra-time: Man Utd 1-2 Crystal Palace. </b>

Pogba shoots miles over the bar from 18 yards out.

Palace continuing to frustrate the reigning Premier League champions.

Untied buliding possesion patiently at the moment.

Dikgacoi tries an effort from the lafway line after Amos' clearance reached him. But the United keeper made it back in time.

Park again with space on the right, Palace defending resolutely.

Park crosses from the right, McCarthy heads clear.

Ambrose strikes it from 35 yards and it's another unbelievable shot. Really good save from Amos to prevent it from going into the top corner.

Okay, golden may be over-exaggerating but it was a good chance. He got in behind McCarthy but poked the ball well wide and didn't even test Price from about 12 yards out.

Macheda misses a golden chance.

Gibson strikes it well on the volley from 20 yards out but it's the wrong side of the post.

United corner now. Pogba to take.

Perhaps a hint of offside but the quality of the delivery certainly deserved a goal.

<b>Man Utd 1-2 Palace. </b>Murray stoops to head in Ambrose's teasing cross.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/goal.gif"> <b>GOAL</b> Murray

Ambrose to swing it in from the left.

Zaha wins a free-kick after fooling Park with another delightful piece of skill.

Again Palace able to stand their ground.

Valencia wins a corner after his shot hits McCarthy.

Palace fans in full voice - the home supporters have not been too loud tonight.

Diouf and Pogba seem to get in each other's way and any potential danger is avoided for Palace.

Gibson gets hold of the ball and strikes a great left-foot effort. Deflected away for a corner.

Park and Valencia interchange on the right.

Fryers combines with Pogba, who sends the ball to the other wing. Loose pass from Macheda and the move breaks down.

Park shoots wide after cutting in onto his left-foot. I'll let you guess what he did with the shot. That's right, dragged.

It's just occurred to me that Park has been playing right-back since Rafael went off. He's done okay.

And Chris Foy blows for the start of extra-time...

Nearly ready for the off for the next 30 minutes.

<b>Man Utd 1-1 Palace</b>. Macheda's penalty equalised Ambrose's scorching strike and we're heading into extra-time. Both sides have made all their subs.

There's the full-time whistle. It's extra-time at Old Trafford.

Palace on the break, Zaha goes alone again but shoots straight into Amos' grateful grasp.

Great header by Evans, who then feeds Morrison with a great ball hugging the left-wing. Clyne sprints back and covers well. The young right-back has been good tonight.

Palace corner now and it's the Londoners who have looked most like scoring.

I thought Murray had just scored as the net rippled. But it was the side netting after a shot from an acute angle on the right-edge of the box.

Palace still holding firm and looking for a winner themselves.

Morrison emerges into some space on the edge of the box but drags his shot wide. He's certainly not the first player to do that tonight.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/1130/darrenambrosecelebvmufc20111130_275x155.jpg"><br> Darren Ambrose celebrates his wonder strike.

<i>Stat attack: Palace goalscorer Darren Ambrose has netted in six of his last nine games in cup competitions. </i>

Parr does well to handle Park - the Palace defender has been superb in the second half.

It's been all Palace for the last five minutes or so.

Ambrose tries another from distance (who can blame him) but it hits Smalling.

He finds Ambrose, who in turn finds Dikgacoi. Smalling gets a vital foot in.

Zaha speeds away, going alone at the moment.

Amos came to punch but ended up on the floor. Fortunately for him, United were able to clear. He was nowhere near the ball there.

Palace corner now, their second in as many minutes.

Valencia crosses to Macheda, who takes an excellent first touch but can't get a strike away with his second. Surrounded by yellow shirts.

Smalling miscontrols the ball and Palace in a stong position. The deep cross finds Ambrose but he can't direct his header goalwards.

Valencia drives towards the Palace penalty area but McCarthy gets a toe in as Morrison looked to latch onto the ball.

Macheda won the ball for United on the edge of the Palace area but Diouf was standing in the way and offside. Diouf tonight = unimpressive.

Valencia unsurprisingly looking like United's major threat at the moment.

<i>Stat attack: The last time Palace met United in the League Cup, goals from Richardson and Saha gave the Red Devils a 2-0 win in 2004. </i>

Zaha runs at Smalling but the centre-back stands his ground.

Diouf creates space on the left of the box. He cuts in and skies his effort into row Z.

Palace still looking much more positive again now.

Curse of the commentator: Dikgacoi gives it away.

Good football in midfield from Palace, keeping the ball well.

Murray missed a pen at the weekend, can he give himself the ultimate confidence boost by scoring the winner at Old Trafford?

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Murray on for Easter.

Palace about to make their last change.

Parr once more getting into a crossing position and it went towards the danger zone. Well held by Amos.

Palace pushing now, Zaha finally seeing the ball again.

Parr accelerates away from Park down the left-wing but his cross goes all the way through to the far side. Good break from the left-back.

We should be in for an enjoyable final 20 minutes now. Finely poised at the moment. Extra-time and penalties may await.

So the lead lasted just three minutes. The right decision by the referee - a silly tug of the shirt by McCarthy.

<b>Man Utd 1-1 Crystal Palace</b>. Coolly slotted by Macheda, bottom left-hand corner with Price sent the wrong way.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/goal.gif"> <b>GOAL</b> Macheda

Macheda steps up...

Penalty for United, Macheda puleld back by McCarthy.

That was Ambrose's third goal in the competition this season.

Pogba with his own fiercely-struck shot from distance, tipped over by Price.

Wow, what a shock that is. Now we'll see what United's youngsters are made of.

<b>Man Utd 0-1 Crystal Palace</b>. What. A. Goal. All of 30 yards out, he smashes it into the top left-hand corner. Palace fans jubilant.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/goal.gif"> <b>GOAL</b> Ambrose with a screamer.

Pogba's first touch is to win a header in midfield.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Pogba on for Rafael.

Rafael looks to have an injury problem now. Seriosuly, these Brazilian twins need to take some vitamin supplements.

Macheda has scored just once in his last 17 games.

Macheda the latest to strike goalwards, a good turn to get away from McCarthy but his left-foot shot is high and wide.

United starting to find more gaps now.

Gibson has looked much better since half-time. I know I've given him plenty of stick but he's at least showing some desire to drop off and take responsibility for bringing the ball forward from defence.

Shot from Morrison, who found space on the inside-right of the box. Really smart save from Price with his feet.

<i>Stat attack: Palace have averaged a goal a game on their travels this season, winning four of their nine away matches.</i>

Great run from Rafael, but his cross can't find Diouf or Macheda.

Ambrose looks towards Easter, but the attempted pass is well beyond his team-mate.

Clyne with a good challenge on Diouf but then subsequently gives the ball back to a red shirt.

United's possession 75% to Palace's 25% so far in the second half. It tells a true story.

United looking significantly brighter since the interval. Palace struggling to get hold of the ball.

Good strike from Morrison just outside the area, which stung the hands of Price.

I must stress that I'm not actually sure whether Berbatov is injured or not. I hope for the sake of his career that he is.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/1130/kagishodikgacoi,dimitarberbatov20111130_275x155.jpg"><br> Dimitar Berbatov: Withdrawn at half-time after a disappointing opening 45.

A second look shows that it was an excellent save from Price.

Valencia misses a glorious chance. He took the ball off Gardner and accelerated clear but slotted his effort wide of the far left post.

Good delivery but Evans jumps too early and the ball is out for a goal-kick.

Park with a direct run and Parr brings him down. Free-kick United on the right, about 25-30 yards out. Gibson to swing it in.

Super turn from Valencia as Unite pour forward. Gibson gets to the edge of the box and drags a poorly-struck left-foot effort wide.

Gibson picks out Fryers with a pinpoint crossfield pass. Finally, a decent moment from the United midfielder.

Fryers gives the ball away to Zaha but United soon retrieve the ball.

Diouf with a great reverse ball to Fryers, but he can't get a decent cross in.

An early touch for Morrison but he gives the ball away.

Moxey's withdrawal for Palace down to that injury he picked up at the end of the first half.

What an embarrassment for Berbatov. He did very little in the first half though.

And we're off in the second half...

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Ambrose on for Moxey.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Ravel Morrison on for Berbatov.

To be fair, it's a good point!

Massive lack of optimism from @kamalmatt on Twitter: "<i>No creativity in utd squad right now. And no anderson and cleverley, utd in deep trouble until christmas.</i>"

The big news in the Premier League tonight is that Sunderland have sacked Steve Bruce - <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/990377/struggling-sunderland-sack-bruce?cc=5739" target="_blank">you can read the full story here.</a>

Absolutely, there were three in the space of about five minutes - to Amos' credit he did really well getting them clear.

Comment on Twitter from @RaceAudio: "<i>United defense feeling a bit suicidal today with those back passes?!</i>"

I'd be inclined to agree with that, was looking forward to seeing some more of Pogba, who was pretty decent in the second-half against Aldershot. Quite surprised that Gibson is still a Manchester United player.

Comment from @LB_CityOfVan on Twitter: "<i>Why fergie isn't giving Pogba a run is absurd. Especially with United's centre midfield problems. Gibson is awful</i>"

And if you want to have your say on the game on Twitter - <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/marklomasESPN" target="_blank">@marklomasESPN is the place to vent your spleen</a>.

Remember, for all the goals updates and chat from tonight's Europa League games, <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/live/_/id/990348/matchday-live---europa-league,-carling-cup?cc=5739" target="_blank">join Dec Warrington now.</a>

<b>HT: Man Utd 0-0 Crystal Palace. </b> Palace gave a really good acocunt of themselves, with Zaha the undoubted star of the show. But United began to dominate towards the end of the half, and losing Scannell will be a big blow for the visitors.

There goes the half-time whistle.

In the middle of that group rising for the ball was Moxey - he looks to have fallen painfully on his ankle as he hit the ground.

Fryers with a teasing left-wing cross but Price claims the ball really well under pressure from Diouf and Valencia.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Parr on for Scannell.

One of Rafael's two tackles was on Scannell and there was a heavy impact on the leg he hurt before. It's a real shame, but he's coming off now.

Valencia crosses and Diouf does fantastically to engineer an acrobatic overhead kick. He couldn't keep it down though.

Rafael with a superb double interception allows United to break.

Old Trafford looking embarrassingly empty tonight, I must say. Interested to hear what United claim the attendance to be.

Gibson looks long for Mahceda but Price is out quickly to collect.

Sustained period of possession for United over the past few minutes - much more patience in the home team's approach.

Smalling almost pickpocketed by Easter but just got away with it after dwelling on the ball in the centre circle.

Diouf has been moved to the left, with Macheda now joining Berbatov up front. Must have been the foul throw.

I saw Fryers up close when United beat Aldershot in the last round - he looked really good going forward but some question marks over him defensively.

Fryers on his first overlap only succeeds in over-hitting a cross from the left.

That was an injury-related sub - Fabio looked to have pulled his hamstring. I worry about what the Brazilian twins will be like in five years time - they seem to be rather injury prone already.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/subs.gif"> Fryers on for Fabio.

Valencia gives the ball away cheaply to O'Keefe. He feeds Scannell who drags his right-foot shot wide from 25 yards out.

Scannell back on - let's face it, he wants to play for as long as possible at Old Trafford.

Macheda fouls Clyne and Palace have a right-wing free-kick.

The exact problem is not clear, looks to have a bit of soreness on his knee.

Dougie Freedman looking pretty concerned at the moment and it could well be the end of Scannell's evening.

The physios are on and Scannell now getting some attention.

Scannell looks in a bit of pain after being clattered by Valencia - a classic heavy shoulder barge from the Ecuadorian.

Foul throw from Diouf deep in Palace territory. Just so appalling that a professional footballer can give away a foul throw. Rubbish.

I seem to remember Fabio was red carded in a League Cup clash with Wolves last season - he'd better be careful with two thirds of this game still remaining.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/gp10/i/yellow_card.jpg" height="15"> Fabio booked for a foul on Zaha, who else.

Rafael in plenty of space on the right after a defence-splitting pass from Valencia. The full-back drills in a cross, but it's too high for Macheda.

He's having a cracking battle with Fabio at the moment. The Brazilian just won the latest round, showing good physicality to keep the ball.

Really hope Zaha doesn't go the same way as Victor Moses and move on from Palace too soon. He's 19 and looks a real prospect. Best player on the pitch by a distance thus far.

There was a wonderful piece of skill by Zaha at the start of the move, which saw him evade the clutches of Macheda.

Evans blocks Scannell's shot from just inside the box. Palace corner.

Moxey really has his hands full with Valencia - he's doing an admirable job so far but I fear for him in the second half.

Possession stats show that both Palace and United have had 25% of the ball in the opposition third so far.

Berbatov looks in some pain after being penalised himself for climbing all over McCarthy.

Lazy pass from Berbatov after Park had opened up some space.

Zaha again with a positive run into the box, but his shot ended up in the stands again.

Scannell turns on the burners down the left and despite initially looking second best, Gibson makes a good sliding interception.

Great move from United, penetrating run from Valencia and he scoops a lobbed pass towards Berbatov. The Bulgarian shoots wide on the volley.

No problems for goalkeeper Price, though, as he collects the ball easily.

Gibson shoots from distance and it's deflected out for a corner.

Lovely turn from Berbatov and he escapes Moxey with a drop of the shoulder.

Not used particularly well by Palace though.

Zaha tripped by Fabio and Palace have a free-kick.

Amos again given a poor pass to deal with, Rafael the latest culprit. The keeper was out quickly to hoof clear.

Looking at a replay, it was outside the box - was a clumsy challenge nonetheless.

But the referee shakes his head.

Penalty shout for Palace, Zaha gets the wrong side of Fabio and looked to be pulled down.

Another really poor back pass for Amos to deal with - this time from Evans. The goalkeeper again handles it well with a left-foot volley to clear.

Rafael brings down Zaha a touch cynically in the centre-circle to concede a free-kick.

United probing away now, with Park and Valencia looking for an opening. The South Korean found some space in the area but couldn't get the ball out from under his feet.

Palace haven't scored in their last five games but I'm not sure how - looks to be plenty of attacking verve out there tonight.

Zaha again looking to accelerate away, but Smalling gets their first and delivers a hospital pass back to Amos, who does well to clear from a difficult angle.

<i>Stat attack:</i> Palace have tasted victory in each of their last three League Cup quarter-finals against top-flight opposition.

Scannell brings Palace forward and they're sniffing around the United penalty area

Amazing - Palace fans have started the 'ole's' already, as their side control possession in midfield.

The ball drops to Rafael about 25 yards out but his left-foot volley was optimistic and unsurprisingly goes wide.

Macheda gets to the byline and crosses in with his left foot. Wright heads it out for a United corner.

Berbatov and Macheda exchange passes down the left as United look to calm things down a tad.

Fantastic opening, particularly from Palace.

Easter gets beyond Evans and looks to be through. But just as he's about to pull the trigger, Smalling gets a crucial foot in.

Gibson aims a long ball towards Diouf but the forward's touch is heavy.

Positive run from Nathaniel Clyne down the right and Palace really showing no fear.

Zaha again with an excellent series of touches in midfield to create some space. Looking impressive so far.

Zaha breaks at pace - running all of 60 yards on his own, but as he gets to the edge of the box he fires a shot high and over.

Gibson delivers but it's headed clear.

Valencia down the wing early on and United immediately have a corner on the right.

And we're off...

Berbatov and Diouf to get us under way.

In fact, I lie - it's a minute's applause. I always think it is a much better way of paying tribute. "There's only one Gary Speed" is the chant going around Old Trafford. A nice touch from the United and Palace fans.

We're almost ready for kick-off now, but first there is a minute's silence in tribute to Gary Speed.

For all the goals updates and chat from tonight's Europa League games, <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/live/_/id/990348/matchday-live---europa-league,-carling-cup?cc=5739" target="_blank">join Dec Warrington now.</a>

Comment on Twitter from @ChazAaronCamp: <i>"If United's midfield shows up to play, I've got a 3-1 (UTD) prediction."</i>

History lesson over and back to the present day - Palace boast a talented young squad, with forwards Wilfred Zaha and Sean Scannell the pick of their starters, while full-back Nathaniel Clyne has also been catching the eye in the Championship this season.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/1130/leemartinfacupfinal1990goal20111130_275x155.jpg"><br>Lee Martin lashes home Man Utd's winner against Crystal Palace in the 1990 FA Cup final replay

There is of course history between United and tonight's visitors Crystal Palace - it was against the south Londoners that Sir Alex Ferguson claimed his first trophy with the Red Devils back in 1990. A goal from full-back Lee Martin gave United a 1-0 win in the FA Cup final replay, after the first match ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw.

It's a very young team for United, with an average age of just under 24 by my reckoning. But still plenty of first-team experience in there with Rafael, Fabio, Evans, Smalling, Berbatov, Park and even Gibson all possesing plenty of United appearances between them.

As always, I'd be keen to hear your thoughts on the game so please do share your musings with me on Twitter - <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/marklomasESPN" target="_blank">@marklomasESPN the place to go</a>.

Hello everyone, Mark Lomas here to take you through all of the action at Old Trafford. After being at Stamford Bridge last night, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a match with just as much needle and controversy. Though I'm not sure if the away side will be winning 2-0 tonight.

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/990174/sir-alex-ferguson-turns-to-youth-against-crystal-palace?cc=5739" target="_blank">he will field a young team on Wednesday night</a>, with the likes of Paul Pogba and Ravel Morrison expected to play a part.

<img src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/1130/siralexfergusonanddougiefreedman20111130_275x155.jpg"><br> Glaswegian duo Sir Alex Ferguson and Dougie Freedman will do battle at Old Trafford.

Join us from 19.45 GMT for live text commentary of Manchester United v Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup quarter-finals.