The middle of the line

This game played out in quite a similar way to the Basel game earlier in the week. In the first half, Fulham were dominant and scored fairly early on (this time through Zamora) but despite creative play and several chances, could not extend their lead. In the second half, the opposition started to turn the tables, and Fulham seemed to let the pressure drop, but managed to hold on through quality defensive play.

In a sense, this win was ground out, but sometimes teams have to play such games. Since the 1-0 loss against Arsenal (arguably a result that the Gunners had to grind out), Fulham have played nine league games. One was the loss away to Brum and three were away draws, with the home draw against Bolton. The remaining four games were all home wins, including the scalp of Liverpool. Instead of being tired out by playing in Europe, it appears that the squad have been improving. The Whites are now 8th in the Premiership, and while there are some tough fixtures up ahead – the crunch game in Basel, followed by Man Utd, Spurs and Chelsea over Christmas – the club is in a very good position.

There’s a full six day break before the next game up at Burnley, so hopefully the players can be up to a long trip up north.