Marcus Rashford shines as Aston Villa defeat Preston to reach FA Cup semi-finals

Marcus Rashford broke his four-month goal drought to help Aston Villa secure a spot in the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in decades. His brace against Preston pushed Villa one step closer to ending their 68-year wait for an FA Cup title, as they aim to win their first since 1957.

Rashford, who lifted the FA Cup with Manchester United last year, has rediscovered his form at Villa after a period of stagnation at Old Trafford. Despite a lackluster season, the 27-year-old's two goals against Preston were a welcome reminder of his attacking quality, as he last scored on December 1st.

Preston, battling adversity with several key players missing, put up a valiant fight, but Villa's dominance was clear from the start. The hosts were without starting goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, forcing David Cornell into just his seventh appearance in two and a half years. Preston also had five teenagers on the bench, which highlighted their lack of experience at the top level.

The match began with a festive atmosphere at Deepdale, with fans creating a charged environment through banners, flags, and balloons. Despite the early buzz, Preston's best chance came from a possible penalty shout in the second minute when Will Keane collided with Villa’s Youri Tielemans in the box. Referee Chris Kavanagh, however, waved away the claims.

Preston's defensive setup focused on restricting Villa's attacking threats, especially Rashford, who played as a central striker. Though Villa dominated possession (72%), they struggled to break down Preston’s defense in the first half. However, Emiliano Martínez made a rare error when he misjudged a Robbie Brady cross, allowing Mads Frøkjær to attempt a header, though it lacked precision.

Rashford was eventually rewarded for his persistence. After a clever pass from Lucas Digne, the England forward calmly placed the ball into the net to give Villa the lead. It was his first goal for Villa since joining, and his first since scoring twice for Manchester United against Everton.

Rashford soon had his second goal of the game, converting a penalty after a foul on Villa’s Jacob Rogers in the box. In the second half, with Preston tiring, Jacob Ramsey capitalized by scoring from outside the box to seal the victory for Villa. The packed away section celebrated, already anticipating their trip to Wembley.

For Preston, it was a disappointing defeat, but Villa's clinical finishing and Rashford's return to form proved the difference. Aston Villa now look ahead to the FA Cup semi-finals with hopes of adding to their trophy cabinet, while Preston's cup run ends, leaving them to focus on their league campaign.