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All smiles: Everton manager David Moyes - Source: Getty Images -
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Manchester United's bid to become the first side to win an unprecedented five trophies continues on Monday (NZT) but first they have to get past Everton with the tie between these two clubs in the semi-final of the FA Cup a repeat of Everton's stunning 1-0 victory over the Red Devils in the final of the tournament in 1995.
The Toffees may have failed to win a single trophy since Joe Royals side beat United and have defeated their North-West rivals just once in the 14-years that have past, but that doesn't mean that pundits are not giving the Blue half of Merseyside a chance.
The reason many see Everton, currently sixth on the Premier League table, as the ones to end the current Premier League and European Champions hopes is the spirit this side has show in the 08/09 season.
After a disastrous start that saw the side win just two of their first eleven matches an injury ravaged Everton revived their season to knock Liverpool, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough out of the FA Cup, and challenge a faltering Aston Villa for the fifth spot on the Premier League table.
All while having a depleted strike-force that saw midfielder Tim Cahill play as the lone front-man for much of the season.
One of the main reasons for Everton picking themselves up after their less than impressive start to the season has most definitely been their manager (often touted as the man to take over Alex Ferguson when he is prised from United) David Moyes.
Moyes may have failed to win a trophy since coming to the Merseyside club from Preston eight years ago, but it is he who has instilled a spirited mentality in 'The Peoples Club' whose limited budget may have stopped the side competing on footballs bigger stage but whose eye for a great buy (the most notable of these cunning purchases is of course Cahill who was transferred to Everton from Millwall for a bargain NZ$3.9 million) has seen his side go from strength to strength for each season he has been in charge.
And it is Moyes who is now rallying his troupes for what he has described as the biggest game of his managerial career.
In an interview with the Liverpool Echo Moyes told reporters how he will be the man to end Everton's cup wait.
"As a football man, Everton will win a trophy soon that's for sure." The Scot said.
"United are an outstanding team and we will need to play at our maxium to win - but we know we can do it."
And while Arsenal, United and Chelsea all have their eye on the bigger prize of the Premier or Champions League, Everton have eyes for just one trophy - and after all his hard work and determination in transforming Everton over the past eight years, there is possibly no other club, or manager in Moyes who truly deserves to lift the FA Cup trophy at Wembley in 2009.
FA Cup semi finals LIVE and exclusive this weekend with TVNZ. Get details HERE
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