Cardiff edge into Cup final

Ledley hooked a volley into goal from the edge of the box after picking up a clearance from Barnsley defender Rob Kozluk.

Barnsley, who had defeated Liverpool and Chelsea on their way to the semi-finals, had plenty of possession but struggled to translate it into goals. Kayode Odejayi had Barnsley8217;s best chance in the 67th when clear on goal with only the goalkeeper to beat but he sent his shot wide.

Beating history

Cardiff have only lifted the FA Cup trophy once 8212; in 1927 when they beat Arsenal 1-0 at the old Wembley. It8217;s the only time that the FA Cup has been won by a club outside England.

Barnsley8217;s Dennis Souza headed a shot past the post in the 13th minute and Odeyaji tamely tapped the ball to Cardiff goalkeeper Peter Enckleman six minutes later. Barnsley goalkeeper Luke Steele saved an effort from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink 8212; the 36-year-old former Chelsea and Netherlands striker.

While Cardiff are pushing for a place in the playoffs to reach the Premier League, Barnsley are struggling to avoid relegation from the Championship.

If Cardiff win the final, they still cannot qualify for the UEFA Cup because the Football Association8217;s rules state that Welsh clubs only qualify through their own competitions.