Aston Villa 3 Doncaster 1: Verdict

Feb 4 2009

John Carew scored on his first start for three months as Aston Villa reached the fifth round of the FA Cup for only the second time in nine years.

The Norway international struck for the eighth time this season, proving his fitness after a lengthy lay-off with a back problem.

Steve Sidwell and Nathan Delfouneso were also on the mark for Martin O'Neill's drastically changed team, with Jason Price netting a consolation effort for visitors Doncaster.

But the Coca-Cola Championship side could be proud of their efforts and attempted to play constructive football from the first to the final whistle.

Villa will just be happy to be through to the next round after resting star names like Gabriel Agbonlahor, Gareth Barry, James Milner and Brad Friedel ahead of the weekend Barclays Premier League clash at Blackburn.

O'Neill, who made seven changes to the side which drew with Wigan at the weekend, has admitted clinching a Champions League spot is the main priority for the midlands club this season.

Carew managed to get the full 90 minutes under his belt and Ashley Young marked his return from a three-game ban by playing for 75 minutes.

Central defender Curtis Davies and midfielder Sidwell also caught the eye for Villa while James Chambers was impressive at left-back for the visitors.