We have been undone by some exquisite finishing

Last updated : 10 March 2009 By Tony Scholes
Arsenal boss Arsène Wenger was pleased with the way his side played to ensure a sixth round tie at home against Hull City and then a possible semi-final against Chelsea. "We did the job in a serious way," he said.

"In the first half Burnley made the job very difficult for us because they marked us tightly. We kept good defensive tightness and we scored a goal. In the second half we scored brilliant goals.

"We could have had a few more but overall we did the job in a conscientious and serious way and before going to Roma it is good that we didn't concede and we scored."

Owen Coyle, speaking after the game, said: "It was a remark of respect that Arsène Wenger played some top, top players. For us, it was terrific to be on this stage and the players really gave to grasp the opportunity to try to make that happen on a weekly basis.

"Seasons like this don't come along every year and I know that from my own experience. So as much as we have enjoyed the cup runs it counts for nothing. "We want to be in there at the business end when the prizes are handed out, so I would ask the players to use that as a motivation."

On the game he added: "We had a few players who really performed to their levels and a few others who perhaps didn't. But when you analyse it, you have to understand the quality that Arsenal have and operate at the levels they do.

"I have said to the lads to be disappointed by the result, but now, as much as we wanted a run in the FA Cup, we have ten cup finals in the Championship. If we have any aspirations to play on that stage again then they have to go out in the bread and butter of the Championship and try to force ourselves into the play off positions.

"We are a point behind Preston with a game in hand and we have shown all season we can play. If we bring all that together and show our standards, we are capable of having a great end to the season."

Coyle continued: "I wanted us to be positive and try to entertain. We knew there were going to be times when we would have to defend because of Arsenal's quality. I have to say I felt very comfortable in the game at 0-0 and it was mistakes from our players that led to the first two goals.

"But the finish for the first was only bettered by the second by Eduardo. Every time I watched it back it got better, so I stopped watching.

"When all said and done we have been undone by some exquisite finishing, but I do feel we have played a part.

"The second goal, as good a finish as it was, Christian stepped out when we should have held his line. But you have to admire the quality of the goals.

"Arsenal have movement, but also movement with pace and that is why they have top class international players and operate in the Champions League every year."