Norwich City 1 United 2

who beat Patrice Evra to advance onto a fine pass by Kyle Naughton.

Hernandez was unable to get any power on his shot after receiving a pass from Welbeck, with Ruddy saving comfortably, but De Gea was arguably busier than his opposite number in the first half. Pilkington's cross was met by a deft header by Holt but the Spanish keeper was equal to it, not only reaching the effort but clutching it safely.

United were not in top gear throughout the opening 45 minutes but looked dangerous when knitting moves together as Scholes and Michael Carrick tried to get a grip in midfield. After the restart, the Reds asserted more control but there were few chances created.

Bradley Johnson drilled wide following a stray pass out of defence by Evra and Andrew Surman had a volley blocked but the champions' defence looked comfortable. United burst into life with another lovely move as Welbeck played a one-two with Giggs but his lob past Ruddy did not carry enough pace on it and Zak Whitbread was able to clear.

De Gea had to be alert to make a spectacular diving catch to cut out a Pilkington centre but Sir Alex's side conjured up another moment of inspiration when Phil Jones' cross was volleyed against the bar by Giggs, who was so close to marking his special day with a goal.

Nevertheless, the Canaries remained in the game and, after a hopeful penalty shout against Scholes, Holt headed off target when left unmarked