Piquionne sends Pompey to Wembley

Frederic Piquionne

12 April 2012

Portsmouth's season has included four different owners and the threat of liquidation - but it will also have a trip to Wembley after Frederic Piquionne earned them a 2-0 victory over Birmingham.

Pompey, saddled with debt and being pursued by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, will earn more than £600,000 in prize money and broadcasting fees for reaching the FA Cup semi-final but money was hardly on their minds as they celebrated victory against Alex McLeish's men.

Piquionne's goals brightened up a quarter-final tie short on action until he struck in the 67th and 70th minutes, then Liam Ridgewell had an effort ruled out for the visitors despite the ball appearing to cross the line.

Before that, there was little to do for the two England goalkeepers on display, with David James looking to re-establish himself as Fabio Capello's first choice and Joe Hart tipped as a future number one.

They were barely tested during a first 45 minutes short of entertainment and goalmouth action, despite Birmingham having James McFadden in their forward line after overcoming groin problems during the week.

The visitors had Roger Johnson in their defence and he was looking for revenge after being in the Cardiff side that lost to Pompey nearly two years ago.

He and Scott Dann at the centre of Birmingham's defence meant it needed something special for the hosts to make an impression - and Piquionne provided it.

The French striker made no mistake from close range for the opener. Steve Finnan put the ball back in the danger area after a corner and found John Utaka, Hart looked to have the situation under control but Dann crashed into him and the ball fell for Piquionne to tap in.

Piquionne's second came three minutes later. Jamie O'Hara played him through and the striker twisted and turned around Johnson before planting his finish past Hart for his fourth goal in three games.