No-show is not EZE to take as Villa's trophy dreams ended

VILLA’S hopes of lifting the FA Cup this season were dashed by Crystal Palace after losing 3-0 at Wembley in the semi-finals on Saturday night.

- By JOHN TOWNLEY

Ismaila Sarr scored two second-half goals after Eberechi Eze had opened the scoring with a lovely finish in the 31st minute - assisted by Sarr.

The first big chance of the contest fell to Morgan Rogers in the 25th minute after a cross from the left by Lucas Digne, but the forward dragged his effort wide.

Jean-Philippe Mateta was denied an opener having fouled Ezri Konsa on his route to goal, but Eze ensured Palace broke the deadlock by firing past Emi Martinez from distance in the 31st minute.

Konsa came close to equalising shortly after Villa fell behind, but Dean Henderson got down well to keep out his header.

Palace finished the half on top, and Tyrick Mitchell was presented with a golden chance to double their lead. Sarr rolled the ball across the box for the left-back to convert, but he fluffed his lines from close range a huge let-off for Villa.

Unai Emery’s side forced Henderson into action twice early in the second half, as he denied John McGinn and then Digne’s effort from distance.