Fortune was hiding again for West Ham, but not for the global audience. After the non-event of 12 months ago, the FA Cup was redeemed with its best final of modern times, eventually won 3-1 on penalties by Liverpool, who had the most unlikely of heroes in Jose Reina.
Sunday Times
Reprieved Reina brings down bubbly Hammers
If this really was the last FA Cup final in Cardiff, it will surely have proved a parting of such sweet sorrow for winners and losers alike.
Sunday Telegraph
Reina's penalty saves capitalise on Gerrard heroics
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard and manager Rafa Benitez display the FA Cup after a classic final against West Ham, that was decided on penalties.
Independent on Sunday
Reina transformed from zero to hero as Reds win rare classic
Liverpool have won the first and last Cardiff FA Cup finals, and both times they went to the brink of defeat before pulling the game round.
The Observer