Middlesbrough 2 Manchester United 2

A CONTROVERSIAL penalty prevented Middlesbrough from booking a place in the FA Cup semi-finals at the expense of Premiership leaders Manchester United.

After Boro had edged their way ahead 70 seconds after half-time courtesy of George Boateng's powerful close ranger header, the Dutchman was then adjudged to have deliberately handled inside the area after Rio Ferdinand's near post flick on.

Boateng, with both arms guarding his face, could do little to stop the ball connecting but referee Rob Styles was quick to point to the spot.

Cristiano Ronaldo, vilified inside the Riverside Stadium for his part in United's win here in December, powerfully found Mark Schwarzer's bottom right corner 22 minutes before the end to seal a replay at Old Trafford a week on Monday.

Wayne Rooney had earlier given the Red Devils a deserved 23-minute advantage when he capitalised on some hesitancy in the home defence to find Schwarzer's bottom corner from 18 yards.

But Boro, after being initially ripped apart by Ronaldo's drive, responded emphatically.

Shortly before half-time Lee Cattrermole controlled Julio Arca's header towards goal with the inside of his right boot before firing in Tomasz Kuszczak's net.

Boateng then converted Stewart Downing's corner immediately after half-time to put the home side in front but Ronaldo made the most of Mr Styles' generosity to ensure Middlesbrough's hopes of a trip to Wembley now rest on the return fixture at Old Trafford.