The result comes after Burnley eliminated Chelsea on penalties at Stamford Bridge in the fourth round and sees them into the semi-finals of a major competition for the first time in 25 years.

Kevin McDonald was the hero as he ensured victory for the Coca-Cola Championship team with a superb brace.

Burnley booked their place in the last four of the Carling Cup after showing a young Arsenal side how to finish.

While McDonald rightly took the plaudits, the Lancashire club also had to thank goalkeeper Brian Jensen, who made a string of fine saves to keep his side in front.

Scottish midfielder McDonald scored either side of half-time and there was pandemonium around the old ground after a famous victory.

Meanwhile Derby, relegated in shame from the Premier League last season, are on the brink of a Wembley final after edging past Premiership team Stoke.

An injury-time penalty from Nathan Ellington sent Paul Jewell's men into the semi-finals, the first time County have reached that stage of a major cup competition since 1968.

Stoke and Rory Delap had thrown everything they could think of at the Rams' determined defence, but Derby fans who suffered through an embarrassing top-flight campaign last term at last had something to celebrate.

Carling Cup Fifth Round results

Stoke 0
Derby 1 (Ellington 90)

Burnley 2 (McDonald 6, 57)
Arsenal 0