Manchester United manager David Moyes has insisted that scoring the opening goal was crucial during his side's 2-0 win over Stoke City in this evening's League Cup fixture.

The Red Devils took control of the game after Ashley Young gave them the lead just after the hour mark, going on to score a second through Patrice Evra.

"I think the first goal tonight, whoever got it, was going to make a big difference," Moyes told Sky Sports News.

"It was a tight game, we had some good play at times but we hadn't created too many chances, but I don't think Stoke created too many either. I thought that once we got the first goal we were in control. When we got the second goal, we went on and saw the game out well.

"The conditions were a leveller, particularly in the first half it was really difficult for the players to play. The wind was blowing all over the place. Players will tell you that to play in heavy wind is as bad as anything."

United will take on Sunderland in the semi-finals of the competition.