Ledley eager for final challenge

Cardiff goal-hero Joe Ledley set his sights on lifting the FA Cup on 17 May after his strike saw off Barnsley in Sunday's semi-final at Wembley.

The 21-year-old Wales midfielder's ninth-minute strike, a fine volley, booked a showdown against Portsmouth.

"It's brilliant, I thought everyone played really well and we can go into the final with confidence and try to win it," Ledley said.

"I thought we deserved the win and it's great for the fans as well."

Ledley gave the Bluebirds the perfect start when a half-clearance fell to him on the edge of the Tykes area.

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A sweet connection with his left foot saw the ball loop over Barnsley goalkeeper Luke Steele and nestle in the back of the net.

"It was a difficult ball coming down but I just hit it and hoped for the best, the luck was in," said Ledley.

"The fans are buzzing and to come back here for the final at this great stadium, it's good for the fans and it's good for the players.

"After the goal, Barnsley came at us first half, but I thought we got at them pretty well in the second half and deserved the win."

Kayode Odejayi should have put Barnsley level when put through one-on-one with Cardiff keeper Peter Enckelman and Ledley admits his heart was in his mouth.

"I thought he was going to bury it, but it was a relief to see it go wide and that's our luck," Ledley added.

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