Marc Skinner believes Manchester United's narrow win over Brighton is a sign of how far his side have come.
United were not at their dazzling best as a late winner from Rachel Williams saw off Brighton 3-2 in the Women's FA Cup semi-finals on Saturday.
But Skinner, who had goals from Leah Galton and Alessia Russo to thank for turning the tide after the Seagulls had taken the lead, was delighted to see his side book their place at Wembley on May 14.
Speaking to MUTV, he said: "It was the good, the bad and the ugly from us.
"We were not at our very best. We conceded two goals that we don't usually concede.
"Brighton didn't make it easy for us but this team have shown they can win when the result has to matter."
The Seagulls broke the deadlock courtesy of a Mary Earps own goal nine minutes before the break.
And Skinner, 40, revealed a frank conversation at half-time ensured the hosts went out fired up to progress to their first-ever FA Cup final.
Galton levelled matters two minutes into the second half at Leigh Sports Village and Russo handed United the lead after 71 minutes.
Despite the disappointment of Danielle Carter equalising after capitalising on a mistake by Millie Turner, Skinner was delighted with his side's response as they carved out the opportunity for Williams to net her last-gasp winner.
He said: "At half-time we had words as a collective and the team agreed the energy needed to be better.
"This result means a massive amount for us and for our fans. Our fans deserve it because their voice in the second half was insane.
"We have a really hungry group of players who will give everything they have for success."
Match-winner Williams, 35, added: "To send us through feels amazing.
"But credit to everyone. With the season we're having, to now have an FA Cup final is the reward we deserve."
United will face Chelsea in next month's final after the holders overcame Aston Villa 1-0.
