McDonald brace sees off young Guns

Kevin McDonald steered Burnley into the semi-finals of a major competition for the first time in 25 years with a superb brace in a 2-0 win over Arsenal at Turf Moor.

While McDonald rightly took the plaudits, the Lancashire club also had to thank goalkeeper Brian Jensen, who made a string of fine saves to keep his side in front.

Scottish midfielder McDonald scored either side of half-time and there was pandemonium around the old ground after a famous victory.

Arsenal almost took the lead before McDonald made the breakthrough when Fran Merida released Nicklas Bendtner. However Jensen stayed alert and diverted the striker's effort to safety.

Burnley took the lead in the sixth minute after Chris Eagles swung in a superb cross from the right. Arsenal could not clear their lines after goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski failed to gather the ball.

McDonald took full advantage to score from the edge of the six-yard box to put the the second-tier side in the driving seat - and they never looked back.

Burnley extended their lead in the 57th minute with McDonald again showing a cool headed when needed.

Randall was caught napping when Eagles delivered a throw-in and McDonald raced clear before curling a delightful shot into the far corner with the outside of his right boot.

Burnley were happy to knock the ball around and keep possession but Arsenal still looked dangerous going forward.

Nicklas Bendtner should have pulled a goal back with three minutes remaining but the striker failed to capitalise on a good ball from Vela to put the seal on a miserable night for the Gunners.