There were 12,000 more matchgoers present for this semi-final than the previous day's non-contest. "The city is yours," crowed the Manchester United supporters, "20,000 empty seats: are you f-----g sure?" Those of a red and blue persuasion will be back at Wembley next month.
United's only penalty shootout triumph in their previous eight was against Rochdale and the goalkeeper was Robert Sanchez, between the sticks for Brighton. David de Gea was rested that night.
De Gea, captaining United with Bruno Fernandes substituted, lost the coin tosses for the choice of end and the taker. Brighton had the benefit of a blue-and-white backdrop and stepping up first.
