Balloons burst Joe's cup dream

Shrewsbury-born Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart was left deflated after a bunch of balloons contributed to a shock FA Cup defeat for his side.The former Shrewsbury Town stopper started bursting the myriad of blue balloons floating around his goalmouth during his side's tie at Sheffield United, after they caused mayhem with one defender appearing to mistake the match-ball for a balloon.

The Premier League side suffered a 2-1 fourth-round defeat at Bramall Lane, with the Blades' first goal in the 12th minute arriving in bizarre circumstances.

Defender Michael Ball was clearly confused as the ball deflected off City captain Richard Dunne and then onto one of the balloons. Ball completely missed his attempt at a clearance and while Luton Shelton was almost deceived too, he managed to steady himself and score from six yards.

City manager Sven Goran-Eriksson said: "I don't want to use it as an excuse, but it was a very strange goal."

Last night's defeat was made worse after the dressing room was targeted by thieves.