Sunday Fulham Stuff (15.08.10)

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http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7945736/Bolton-Wanderers-0-Fulham-0-match-report.html


Bolton Wanderers 0 Fulham 0: match report


Read a full match report of the Premier League game between Bolton Wanderers and Fulham at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday Aug 14 2010

(HT 0-0)  


By Peter Gardiner


Published: 5:14PM BST 14 Aug 2010


Mark Hughes has hardly had time to become acquainted with the Fulham players following his appointment as manager at the end of last month.

However, Hughes returned to the north-west, where he was formerly in charge of Blackburn and Manchester City, to witness his new charges deliver a workman-like performance as they extracted a hard-earned point from an equally industrious Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium.

Aston Villa consider move for Mark Hughes It was never a classic confrontation between two sides who appeared destined to again occupy mid-table positions once more, although much will be expected from Hughes as he attempts to fill the shoes vacated by the popular Roy Hodgson, who took the Londoners to the Europa League final last season after having earlier hoisted Fulham to their best ever Premier League finish of sixth position.

Chances for either side were few, although there was an early urgency about Bolton that suggested they might radically remedy their recent poor record against Fulham who they have failed to overcome in eight previous League encounters.

Johan Elmander drove wide, only a splendid interception by Dickson Etuhu denied Martin Petrov who followed up with a powerful 25-yarder that David Stockdale, the Fulham goalkeeper standing in for injured Mark Schwarzer, held chest-high.

However, Fulham eagerly responded and their captain, Danny Murphy, was marginally wide with the visitors' first attempt.

Bobby Zamora, receiving from Damien Duff, spotted the Bolton goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen off his line but chipped over from long range.

Yet neither side provided a positive first-half threat, Elmander again firing off target while Simon Davies saw an attempt from the right blocked.

The second half was little different as both defences remained in command. Elmander shot on the turn only for Stockdale to palm the ball over and the Bolton striker was again denied by Stockdale before Stuart Holden went close for the home side with a fine, low attempt that went behind off the foot of a post

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Hughes Pleased with Stockdale

Saturday 14th August 2010


Fulham FC News


Speaking after Fulham's goalless draw at the Reebok Stadium, Fulham Manager Mark Hughes was pleased with his team's display.

David Stockdale, who started in place of the injured Mark Schwarzer in goal, produced a string of fine saves as Bolton pushed forward.  His performance drew praise from the Fulham Manager.   

"I was pleased with what we produced today," Hughes said.

"You expect to have to deal with good quality here with the threat of Kevin Davies and I think we acquitted ourselves well, certainly the back five, and I include David Stockdale, who I thought played really, really well.

"The confidence that he showed helped the back four. They were very organised and understood what they needed to do to get a result today.

"David has been training well and I have been really impressed with him in the short time that I have been at the club.

"I had no qualms about throwing him in, I thought he'd do well and I'm glad that he has enjoyed the experience."


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/BoltonReactionHughes.aspx#ixzz0wbm60S9M

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Bolton 0 - 0 Fulham


A testing start to Mark Hughes's Fulham tenure this would be. Owen Coyle has revitalised this side and his attempts to replace Bolton's aggressive long-ball style with a more fluid passing game looked evident from the off, with Chung-yong Lee and Kevin Davies linking nicely to fashion a chance for Johan Elmander.

The hosts were quick out of the blocks, but Fulham looked controlled and confident with the now England-capped Bobby Zamora showing some promising early touches.

All eyes were unquestionably on the Whites, as a new chapter opened in their long history. Hughes named a more than familiar line-up however, with the only changes to the side that played the majority of last season seeing Paul Konchesky and Mark Schwarzer replaced by Stephen Kelly and David Stockdale.

The latter, making just his second league appearance and fourth in total for the Whites, looked at home in the Fulham goal – making one routine stop from a Davies header, before catching the eye with a super save from Martin Petrov's strike from distance.

The 24-year-old also saw off the aerial threat Davies, before diving bravely at the feet of Elmander.

With half an hour gone, the young 'keeper thwarted Bolton and Elmander again, making a decent save from the Swedish striker's curled strike.

At the other end, Zamora went close with a clever lofted effort, had it been a few inches lower, Fulham would have been in front. Simon Davies flashed a volley wide, while captain Danny Murphy shot narrowly wide from Zoltan Gera's lovely first-time pass.

With the score level at half-time, both teams could well have had a breakthrough; Bolton may have seen more of the chances, yet Fulham looked the better in possession.

Bolton again made a lively start to the half, and within minutes Stockdale again denied the home side's attack, with the young stopper tipping Elmander's arching strike over the bar.

The home crowd bellowed for a penalty when Chung-yong Lee went down under a challenge from Murphy, but referee Stuart Attwell was spot on with his decision; with our skipper showing his vast experience to pick the pocket of the South Korea international with an expert intervention.

At the other end, Gera offered a moment of inspiration, however his ambitious overhead kick deflected off the back of Gary Cahill and out for a corner.

History and form certainly suggested the Whites would get their goal, with Fulham scoring one goal in each of their last four opening-day games. Barclays Premier League statistics, released this week, also revealed Fulham scored 69 per cent of their goals last season in the second-half - which was the highest proportion in the top-flight.

Another fantastic stop from Stockdale denied the home side further, with Elmander kept out again following a one-on-one with the Yorkshire-born 'keeper. Stocko was having one hell of a game.

Into the last 20 minutes, and with a very vocal travelling Fulham faithful behind them, the Whites began to push forward with more urgency, Zamora fired wide from the edge of the box and Gera's effort was blocked by the boot of Cahill.

An exciting spell followed with Stuart Holden rattling the foot of one of the Fulham posts from distance, while Murphy created space for Clint Dempsey to force a decent save from Jaaskelainen.

Dickson Etuhu was next to test the Finnish 'keeper, lashing Murphy's inviting pass at goal, while a break from Zamora was unfortunately checked by former Fulham defender Zat Knight.

With the momentum, Zamora then found Murphy waiting with the goal in sight, but the captain's strike was blocked by Gretar Steinsson and away for a corner. The resulting delivery from Davies found Zamora at the back post, and his centred header allowed Aaron Hughes to direct at goal from which Jaaskelainen claimed comfortably.

Fulham certainly finished the game in the ascendency, with Damien Duff, Davies and Murphy all teasing balls into the box, however Bolton maintained their resilience.

It was not the win we had all hoped for, but Hughes will be happy; his side defended solidly, tackled intelligently and pressed and harried until the end. Chances were certainly created, and from that he has plenty to take. 

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/MatchAndTeam/MatchCentre/Matches/1011/Premiership/BoltonAway.aspx#ixzz0wbmk0yfJ

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Bolton Photo Special

Saturday 14th August 2010

http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/BoltonPhotoSpecial.aspx

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http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2010/08/14/2070808/owen-coyle-sees-positives-in-boltons-scoreless-draw-with

Owen Coyle Sees Positives In Bolton's Scoreless Draw With Fulham


New signings provide spark for Wanderers...


By Jim Barg


Aug 14, 2010 7:25:00 PM

Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle may have only won six of his first 21 fixtures since joining the club in January, but is still keeping the faith as their Premier League campaign began with a goalless draw against Fulham at the Reebok Stadium.

"We probably did enough to win the game, but Fulham are a very good side," Coyle told BBC Sport after the match.

"A clean sheet was positive for us, and if we can just sharpen up in the final third, that will serve us very well.

"We've made a conscious effort to make sure we have a good shape to us, but we have to do it on a weekly basis."

While both defences dominated play, Bolton had the better of what chances there were in the second half.

Reserve Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale did well twice, punching away a 62nd minute Bolton corner and a Stuart Holden free-kick in the 69th minute.

Holden had the best chance for Bolton, hitting the right post in the 78th minute with a low shot.
Coyle gave new signing Martin Petrov a start, and he caused Fulham problems throughout the match.

The Bulgarian international almost scored the first goal of the season late in  the first half.
Petrov drove in a fierce effort which Stockdale had to dive to catch before Fulham's Bobby Zamora attempted an audacious lob that drifted just over Jussi Jaaskelainen's crossbar.

All of which led Coyle to conclude: "Once the new players integrate, I believe we'll get stronger. We've got to have that intensity on a game-by-game basis."

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http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2010/08/14/2070742/fulham-manager-mark-hughes-not-ready-to-let-mark-schwarzer

Fulham Manager Mark Hughes Not Ready To Let Mark Schwarzer Go


Shot-stopper not moving to Arsenal at the moment...


By Jim Barg


Aug 14, 2010 6:40:00 PM

Fulham played out a dull scoreless draw with Bolton Wanderers on Saturday afternoon in their Premier League season opener, but the off-field news was the absence in the starting line-up of goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.

Officially, Schwarzer was facing a late fitness test due to a back problem, but the Australian goalkeeper's absence may also have been explained by the fact that he handed in a transfer request with a view to joining Arsenal earlier this week.

David Stockdale came in to replace Schwarzer for only his fourth Fulham appearance, and his first since playing in a 2-1 win over Everton last September. 

When asked about the situation by BBC 5 Live after the match, Hughes was adamant that nothing had changed from the previous day.

"He [Schwarzer] sees an opportunity, and possibly wishes to take that if he can," said the Fulham boss.

"But he understands the situation, and our position in the Premier League. If there isn't a deal or a situation that all parties are happy with, at the moment we can't sanction Mark Schwarzer leaving Fulham football club."

Asked if there would be any interest in another goalkeeper, notably Manchester City's Shay Given, Hughes was again non-committal.

"From our point of view, we're in a position with exceptional goalkeepers," he added.

"Obviously, we want that situation to remain. If there's something that can be done where all parties are happy then we'll investigate it. But, at the moment it doesn't seem likely."

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http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/stockdale-makes-his-point/


Stockdale makes his point

by Dan on August 14, 2010

Mark Hughes might want to keep Mark Schwarzer but if the Australian does get his move to Arsenal then at least the new Fulham manager can be sure he's got an able deputy in David Stockdale.


Stockdale proved an able replacement for Mark Schwarzer at the Reebok
The young goalkeeper, who has impressed during his fleeting first-team appearances since he signed from Rotherham two years ago, was outstanding as Fulham earned their first point under their new manager with a gritty display in what wasn't much a spectacle at Bolton this afternoon. Owen Coyle's side made the livelier start but, with the visitors a little more threatening on the counter-attack than they might have been under Roy Hodgson, a draw seemed a fair result.

Coyle opted to pair Johan Elmander, who had enjoyed an excellent pre-season, with Kevin Davies up front and the decision nearly paid dividends early on. A clever turn from the Swede fashioned the first chance inside ten minutes but he perhaps should have added to his paltry total of eight league goals in 55 appearances rather than dragging a shot disappointingly wide. The only one of Coyle's new signings to be given a start, Martin Petrov, was a constant danger down the Bolton left and he came close to marking his debut with a goal on several ocassions. The Bulgarian was first denied by a fine challenge from John Pantsil as he raced into the penalty area to reach an excellent ball from Kevin Davies before bringing a fine sprawling save out of Stockdale when he connected with a rasping drive from the edge of the box.

Fulham grew in confidence as the half went on, gradually gaining more of a foothold in the contest. Danny Murphy had already driven just wide of the post before Bobby Zamora, full of confidence after winning a first England cap in midweek, was unfortunate to ruffle the netting on the roof of the net with an audacious chip from 30 yards. Greitar Steinsson bravely blocked a shot from Simon Davies, but perhaps the closest Fulham came to opening the scoring owed little to the visitors' own endeavour. Instead, there was a heart-in-mouth moment for Paul Robinson when the Bolton left back almost headed past Jussi Jaaskelainen only for the goalkeeper to smother the ball with Zamora lurking.

The second half began with a spell of Bolton pressure. American midfielder Stuart Holden drove wide from distance and Stockdale tipped over a shot on the turn from Elmander at full-stretch. Referee Stuart Atwell also infuriated the Reebook Stadium faithful by ignoring two penalty appeals. Elmander felt he should have had a penalty after tangling with Brede Hangeland, whilst the home crowd were also howling for a spot-kick when Lee Chung-Young tumbled under a challenge from Murphy, but the replays suggested Atwell was justified in not upholding either shout.

Stockdale stood up well to save once more from a frustrated Elmander and when their goalkeeper was finally beaten the frame of the goal came to their rescue. The Aberdeen-born midfielder lashed a low drive past Stockdale from the edge of the box but the ball came back off the far post. Coyle went for broke in the closing stages with three attacking substitutions designed to produce a late winner, but Fulham held firm. The visitors were largely penned back in the final quarter but substitute Clint Dempsey did cause alarm with a dangerous cross-cum-shot.

Given Bolton's dreadful recent record against the Londoners – they haven't beaten Fulham in eight Premier League meetings now – Coyle couldn't be too disappointed with this result, although you suspect it was Hughes who was more pleased with the point. Fulham will have to improve for next Sunday's date with his old side, Manchester United, though.

BOLTON WANDERERS (4-4-2): Jaaskelainen; Steinsson, Robinson, Cahill, Knight; Muamba (M. Davies 86), Holden, Lee Chung-Yong, Petrov (Taylor 86); Elmander (Klasnic 90), K. Davies. Subs (not used): Bogdan, Ricketts, O'Brien.

BOOKED: Muamba.

FULHAM (4-4-1-1): Stockdale; Pantsil, Kelly, Hughes, Hangeland; Etuhu, Murphy, Duff, S. Davies; Gera (Dempsey 74); Zamora. Subs (not used): Zuberbuhler, Stoor, Baird, Greening, Riise, Elm.

BOOKED: Gera, Zamora, Pantsil.

REFEREE: Stuart Attwell (Nuneaton).

ATTENDANCE: 20,352

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Mark Hughes Video Interview -

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/f/fulham/8914707.stm

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http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/08/14/bolton-0-0-mark-hughes-fulham/

Bolton 0-0 Mark Hughes' Fulham

Filed under: Match info — weltmeisterclaude @ 4:19 pm

There are signs of a new Fulham emerging. Mark Hughes won't want to change too much too soon, but a few clever tweaks seem to have added something and today we were unfortunate not to beat a decent Bolton side.

The first half was quite even, Bolton perhaps shading it. David Stockdale, playing in place of the suspiciously injured Mark Schwarzer, had a bit to do and did most of it well: a superb full-stretch save from Martin Petrov was a highlight, not least because he caught the ball, which 'keepers don't tend to do these days. He also made some authoritative claims and some booming clearances.

Our best moment came after half an hour when England's Bobby Zamora slipped clear in the inside left channel 40 yards from goal. He was too far out to go all the way, but saw Jakalaainan off his line and clipped a terrific shot over the panicked keeper but onto the roof of the net. It would have been a fine goal.

The second half initially saw more of the same, although Bolton nearly scored when Johann Elmander escaped Hangeland's marking and smashed a shot towards goal, Stockdale saving again. Then Elmander broke through again, and Stockdale saved again. Next Stuart Holden hit the outside of our post with a skidding drive. We weren't under pressure or anything, but the momentum was against us.

It was starting to feel a bit Chris Coleman-esque, but Hughes made a fine switch that changed the game: Zoltan Gera had played reasonably well but had been largely contained, so Clint Dempsey was brought on for the last 20 minutes. Suddenly it was all Fulham. Dempsey revelled in his "10″ role, and based on the theory that it's better to narrowly fail to make five killer passes than to not attempt them in the first place, he was almost excellent, a slightly heavy touch letting him down when it mattered. Otherwise a snap shot from the right hit with trademark power brought a good save from Jaskalaainen, and some generally lively work between the lines and all across the pitch meant that Bolton were suddenly confused and in trouble.

We spied Etuhu in the area a few times, Aaron Hughes had an attempt on goal, but despite these strange occurences there was no way through. 0-0 isn't a bad return for a Northern away game, and if we try to attack like this in future it seems certain that we'll do okay.

So far, so good.

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http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/08/14/stockdale-shines-as-fulham-fc-endure-stalemate-at-bolton-wanderers-82029-27063256/


Stockdale shines as Fulham FC endure stalemate at Bolton Wanderers

Aug 14 2010

By Tim Edwards

Bolton Wanderers 0-0 Fulham

David Stockdale showed Fulham there is life after Mark Schwarzer after the youngster single-handedly earned Mark Hughes' side a point at the Reebok Stadium this afternoon (Saturday). The 24-year-old was thrust into the action at the expense of Australian Schwarzer, who has slapped in a transfer request in a bid to force through a dream move to Arsenal.

After a quiet opening period the Leeds-born shot stopper, making just his second league appearance for the Cottagers, plucked Martin Petrov's stinging drive out of the air with unassuming confidence before thwarting Johan Elmander inside the box after Dickson Etuhu has dallied on the ball.

He continued to frustrate the impressive Swede in the second half, first tipping over a fierce close-range drive before saving bravely at his feet after Brede Hangeland was caught napping.

Stuart Holden did eventually beat the former York City youth product but crashed his shot against the post.

Fulham, who went closest to scoring in the first half through Danny Murphy's rasping effort and a Bobby Zamora chip, could have won it in injury time but Zamora was denied by Paul Robinson's last ditch tackle.

Fulham: Stockdale, Kelly, Pantsil, Hangeland, Gera (Dempsey, 74), Murphy (cpt), Duff, Hughes, Etuhu, Zamora, Davies. Subs not used: Zuberbuhler, Baird, Stoor, Riise, Greening, Elm.

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http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/8/14/1622925/stockdale-is-solid-in-net-as

Stockdale Is Solid In Net As Fulham Play A 0 - 0 Draw With Bolton


by Russ Goldman on Aug 14, 2010 5:37 PM BST  3 comments

Before the game began, reprorts trickled out that Mark Schwarzer would not be playing in net for Fulham. However, his replacement playing in his fourth appearance for the club gave an excellent performance. David Stockdale could not be rattled at the Reebok in net. The overall performance of the club was solid. The first half was pretty even between the clubs. In the second half, especially the last 15 minutes of the game, Fulham were pressing and looked the better side. Unfortunately they could not score and the game ended 0 - 0 at the Reebok.

The first half was pretty even between the two clubs. I would have to give the slight edge to Fulham. The big news is that in the beginning of the game David Stockdale was solid in net. He was in for the injured Mark Schwarzer who was a game time decision.

Fulham had some nice passing in the beginning of the match. This passing led to a shot on net by Danny Murphy. His shot just went wide, but the build up was encouraging.

As I mentioned this was a pretty even half and Bolton had their chances. In the 14th minute, Martin Petrov made a real nice run and it looked like he was going to have a good chance to score. However, John Pantsil made a great tackle which took away a potential shot from Bolton. Shortly afterwards , Bolton had a corner which was taken by Stuart Holden. This led to a header which was easily saved by Stockdale.

Petrov would have a chance to make an impact in the 18th minute. He had a nice shot on the left side which is nicely saved by Stockdale.

The best chance for Fulham came in the 21st minute. Bobby Zamora took a long range chip shot that went over the goalkeeper and almost floated in the net. Unfortunately the ball just went over the net. In the 23rd minute Zoltan Gera had a long range shot. Gera would have another chance in the 31st minute off of a corner kick by Damien Duff. His header would go wide of the net.

Overall the first half was entertaining but there were no goals by either side. The first half ended scoreless 0 -0.                 

The second half began with Bolton coming out stronger than the Cottagers. In the 47th minute, Stuart Holden took a long range shot that went over the net. This was followed up by a great chance for Bolton. In the 48th minute, Johan Elmander had a great strike that was inside the box.  David Stockdale got his hand on the ball and pushed it over the net.

The Bolton pressure continued a little later. In the 62nd minute, Johan Elmander made a great run and his shot was nicely save by Stockdale. Stuart Holden had one of the best chances of the match. In the 78th minute, Holden's strike on the left side hits the post. Fulham were fortunate at this point to still be tied.

However, the rest of the match was all Fulham. They were the attacking side. Ironically the change in pace happened when Clint Dempsey entered the game . He replaced Zoltan Gera who also had a solid game. In the 79th minute, Clint Dempsey took a nice shot on the right hand side of the field that was saved by the goalkeeper.

Fulham's attacking play would continue. In the 81st minute Stephen Kelly put a shot on net. In the 83rd minute, Dickson Etuhu got a nice strike on net just outside of the box. In the 84th minute a nice pass from Dempsey to Zamora was intercepted by the goalkeeper.

In the 89th minute Fulham had a corner kick. Off of the corner, Zamora heads the ball to Aaron Hughes who's header was saved by the goalkeeper. The play was all Fulham late in this match. As we went to 3 minutes of extra time Fulham dominated with a few corners and constantly in the Bolton end. However, all of the pressure by the Cottagers could not lead to a goal. The game ended with a 0 -0 draw.

On the road, Fulham have been very poor the last few seasons. I noticed a different away team watching the game today. They were very aggressive and definitely went for the win. I am pretty confident that Mark Hughes will be happy with the effort in the second half.

The back four were great today. Stephen Kelly played a great game filling in for the injured Paul Konchesky. Dickson Etuhu stood out in the central midfield. Up top Bobby Zamora was physical and in good form. As I mentioned prior, Clint Dempsey coming in late in the game gave the Cottagers a boost. It was a nice effort all around by the club.

However, the one player who really stood out was Fulham's goalkeeper David Stockdale. Fulham might have a young promising goalkeeper of the future. Only time will tell if Stockdale will become a consistent goalkeeper. In Fulham's first game of the season, Stockdale was as solid as can be in a 0 - 0 draw at Bolton.   

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http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/aug/14/bolton-fulham-match-report


David Stockdale stops Bolton and Fulham take away a point   


Harry Polkey at Reebok Stadium


guardian.co.uk, Saturday 14 August 2010 17.06 BST

A disappointing scoreline, perhaps, but there was sufficient encouragement in the performance of both teams for neither manager to be entirely displeased. Which, as it happened, neither was.

"We'll accept we can sharpen up in the final third, but in terms of how we went about our work today, it was pleasing," said the Bolton manager Owen Coyle. "It's probably a back-handed compliment to ourselves that Fulham were happy to sit in, but they have good players. Some of our play was great, the atmosphere was great and all credit to Stockdale. The biggest compliment I can pay him is to say they didn't miss Mark Schwarzer."

The Stockdale to whom Coyle referred was David, Fulham's reserve goalkeeper. A 24-year-old Yorkshireman signed from Darlington, and since loaned out several times, Stockdale proved to be nerveless and, when he had to be, agile in defending his goal from shots by Martin Petrov and Johan Elmander.

Fulham could point to a beautiful 30-yard chip from Bobby Zamora that beat Bolton goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen, but drifted just over the bar, and a dominance of the final 10 minutes that should have resulted in more chances than it did.

Fulham manager Mark Hughes was happy, though. "I was pleased with what we produced – we acquitted ourselves really well," he said. "The confidence Stockdale showed helped the back four – and they looked very organised."

Schwarzer had failed a fitness test, Hughes said, not been dropped from the side as a response to his transfer request. "The intention is he'll be staying; we've had conversations and I think he understands we have to protect our position — we're not going to make promises we can't fulfil," said the Welshman.

In regard to Manchester City's disaffected Craig Bellamy, Hughes confirmed his interest in the player. "I'm aware there are other clubs interested, but there's a long way to go and, as I've said before, the really important thing is that Craig takes the right step for him — I'm sure he'll take his time and eventually get to the right decision," he said.

The nearest the match came to a goal was 12 minutes before the close, when Bolton's American international Stuart Holden advanced a drove a low shot against the outside of Stockdale's right-hand post. The odds are Stockdale would have got to it, and perhaps his excellence will give Hughes something else to talk about when he next sits down with Schwarzer.

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http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/match/3111147

Bolton Wanderers v Fulham


Match facts

Observer report


Saturday 14 August 2010 15.00

  Score line 
Final score  Bolton Wanderers  0 – 0
(HT 0 – 0)
  Fulham 
Bookings Muamba 40
  Gera 62
Zamora 71
Paintsil 77

Bolton Wanderers's Percentage Fulham's Percentage
Corners 4
33%  8
67% 
Goal attempts 11
50%  11
50% 
On target 5
55%  4
45% 
Fouls 11
44%  14
56% 
Offside 5
62%  3
38% 

Bolton Wanderers Jussi Jaaskelainen, Gretar Steinsson, Paul Robinson, Gary Cahill, Zat Knight, Fabrice Muamba (Mark Davies, M, 86), Stuart Holden, Martin Petrov (Matt Taylor, 86), Chung-Yong Lee, Johan Elmander (Ivan Klasnic, 90), Kevin Davies, K

Fulham David Stockdale, Stephen Kelly, John Paintsil, Brede Hangeland, Aaron Hughes, Zoltan Gera (Clint Dempsey, 75), Danny Murphy, Damien Duff, Dickson Etuhu, Simon Davies, Bobby Zamora

Referee Attwell, S

Venue Reebok Stadium

Attendance 20,352

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http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11672_6312724,00.html


Coyle rues missed chances


Trotters boss eyeing up new recruits


By Hayley Paterson 


Last updated: 14th August 2010   

Owen Coyle was satisfied with a point against Fulham but felt Bolton could have snatched victory at the Reebok Stadium.

The opening day of the season saw the Trotters and Cottagers share the spoils with neither side able to convert their chances as they played out a goalless draw.

Johan Elmander had a fantastic chance to get his name on the scoresheet but stand-in goalkeeper David Stockdale produced an outstanding save to deny the powerful Swede's drive.

Stuart Holden then could have clinched glory but he saw his clinical strike bounce back off the post.

"All credit to Fulham, they came with a game plan, probably very respectful of us that they sat in and made it difficult," Coyle told Sky Sports.

"I thought we had opportunities to win the match, but equally the last five minutes they did one or two things so it's a point and we move on."

Quality
The Scotsman handed a debut to free transfer Martin Petrov who at times showed flashes of his quality and brought in high praise from his new manager.

Coyle was also pleased with the centre-back partnership of Gary Cahill and Zat Knight who faced a difficult task to deter a tireless Bobby Zamora.

"We've created a lot of opportunities, Petrov at the heart of a lot of things and that all goes well for the rest of the season," he added.

The Trotters boss said he would ideally like to bring in some new recruits, but that may mean having to sell some players in order to free up funds.

On making more signings, he added: "We'd certainly hope that to be the case.

"It's fair to say we probably need one or two to move on and there's a couple of lads at the club who want to play and not had as much game time as we would've liked so if there's other clubs interested and one or two move on then that might free up some funds.

"So if there's money available somewhere then I'll look to spend it."

[White Noise]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6312826,00.html

Stockdale delighted by display


Shot-stopper enjoys second Premier League start


By Hayley Paterson   


Last updated: 14th August 2010   

Fulham's stand-in goalkeeper David Stockdale was pleased with his clean sheet against Bolton after his inspired performance helped the Cottagers play out a goalless draw.

It was only the 24-year-old's second Premier League appearance after he was a late replacement for Mark Schwarzer who picked up a back injury prior to the trip to the Reebok Stadium.

And with the Australian's future in doubt following a transfer request and ongoing interest from Arsenal, Stockdale may be getting more than a taste of Premier League action after a superb display in Fulham's opening game of the season.

Since signing in 2008 from Darlington, Stockdale has spent much of his Fulham career out on loan to clubs including Rotherham United and Leicester City, but he proved to be a calm and collected presence between the sticks.

The back-up 'keeper expertly denied two powerful strikes from Bolton's Johan Elmander to keep the Cottagers in the tie.

At the other end Fulham failed to convert with Bobby Zamora's chip just going over the bar and the defensive duo of Gary Cahill and Zat Knight clearing everything which came their way.

Solid
On his clean sheet, the young goalkeeper told Sky Sports: "I'm really glad for the team, I don't really look at myself in general.

"I'm really glad for the defence that it was a good performance, solid, no nerves and good all round."

Stockdale gave praise to his own defensive powerhouse in the shape of man of the match Brede Hangeland and also highlighted Aaron Hughes as an "unsung hero".

"I play with him (Hangeland) in training every day and you see the quality that he's got," said Stockdale.

"Don't forget Aaron Hughes, who is an unsung hero I think. It shows in the last two years where Fulham have gone and we've got a solid pair there and it was nice to play behind them and feel that.

"It's never easy to come to Bolton and get a point, never mind a clean sheet and a point, so I think the manager will tell you that for his first competitive game."

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http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/08/14/fulham-fc-goalkeeper-david-stockdale-hopes-heroics-secures-him-run-in-first-team-82029-27064139/


Fulham FC goalkeeper David Stockdale hopes heroics secures him run in first team


Aug 14 2010


By Tim Edwards

David Stockdale insists Fulham's last line of defence is in safe hands should Mark Schwarzer leaves Craven Cottage.

The Australia international was conspicuous by his absence from the team sheet before this afternoon's goalless draw with Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium.

However, his replacement Stockdale, who only discovered he was playing two hours before kick off, was a revelation as he made a string of fine saves to keep the Trotters at bay.

Johan Elmander could have walked away with the match ball had it not been for Stockdale's heroics, while Martin Petrov was also thwarted by the 24-year-old Yorkshireman.

And while Stockdale relished just his second Premier League appearance he admitted it would be a hammer blow for the Whites if his mentor Schwarzer was to join interested London rivals Arsenal.

"It was exciting to get a game and not have any worries," said Stockdale. "I came in and did the usual routine and it has paid off. I have given the manager a dilemma.

"If Mark (Schwarzer) goes I fully expect another goalkeeper to be brought in, which is the right thing to do. I have put a a reminder in the gaffer's head that I can do it. He might change his mind and keep with me.

"I would love to get a run in the team and show people what I can do. It has taken two years to get to the point where the manage is happy to put me in."

Stockdale, who was nurtured by non-league York City, said he understood why 37-year-old Schwarzer is tempted by a potential move to the Gunners.

He added: "I would like him to stay but the rumours about where he could go make it a career-defining transfer. On the other hand Fulham want to keep a world class goalkeeper."

Fulham host Manchester United next Sunday hoping for a repeat of last December's 3-0 thumping. Stockdale, if selected, is not expecting an easy ride but admits victory would mean even more to him being a staunch fan of United's fierce rivals, Leeds.

"The Leeds versus Man U thing does not really go on now because of where Leeds are but of course it would be good (to beat them)."

Fulham boss Mark Hughes was satisfied with his side's endeavour in Lancashire.

I was pleased with what we produced today,' he said. "You expect to have to deal with good quality here with the threat of Kevin Davies and I think we acquitted ourselves well, certainly the back five, and I include David Stockdale, who I thought played really, really well.

"The confidence that he showed helped the back four. David has been training well and I have been really impressed with him - I had no qualms about throwing him in."

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http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11672_6311590,00.html


Bolton and Fulham share spoils


Cottagers 'keeper puts in solid performance


By Hayley Paterson   


Last updated: 14th August 2010   

Fulham boss Mark Hughes came away with a point from his first game in charge after a 0-0 draw with Bolton.

The newly-appointed Cottagers boss brought in back-up goalkeeper David Stockdale for the game at the Reebok Stadium and the 24-year-old proved he could cut it in the top-flight in just his second Premier League game.

The young shot-stopper replaced Mark Schwarzer who is currently injured and looks likely to be unveiled at Emirates Stadium as Arsenal's new No.1.

In a sloppy game Bobby Zamora, fresh from his England debut in midweek, had the best chance of the half when he attempted a delicate chip which nestled on the roof of Jussi Jaaskelainen's net.

Bolton rarely threatened but can take positives from a hard-working display by Johan Elmander, a solid debut from new signing Martin Petrov and Stuart Holden's strike which hit the post. However, neither side really troubled the goalkeepers in a stop-start encounter.

The opening game of the season at the Reebok Stadium saw the hosts carve out the first opportunity after 10 minutes as Elmander attempted a back heel, collected the rebound and then dragged a shot wide to Stockdale's right.

A minute later at the other end, Fulham skipper Danny Murphy went closer with a low strike from outside the box.

Debutant
Wanderers debutant Petrov began to make his mark on the game as the former Manchester City star cut into the box incisively after being fed by Kevin Davies, only to be halted by a wonderfully-timed challenge by John Pantsil.

Gary Cahill connected with the corner but his downward header was comfortably collected by Stockdale. The centre-back leapt again in the box soon after but was unable to meet Petrov's inswinging free-kick.

Petrov was in the midst of Bolton's attacks as he drove in a fierce effort which Stockdale did well to catch. Zamora then tried to break the deadlock with an audacious lob that drifted just over Jaaskelainen's crossbar.

Fulham then enjoyed a spell of possession with Gretar Steinsson clearing a bouncing shot from Simon Davies and Zat Knight heading behind Damien Duff's free-kick.

But Bolton continued to press as Elmander dispossessed Dickson Etuhu and sent a powerful strike into the arms of Stockdale.


Lucky escape
Jaaskelainen had a lucky escape when he got in a mix-up with Paul Robinson and just got a hand to his defender's header back to spare his blushes.

Bolton were the brighter side as the second half got under way, with Holden firing in an ambitious effort off-target and Elmander collected Steinsson's cross to turn in the box and unleash a snap-shot which Stockdale tipped over for a corner.

Referee Stuart Attwell felt the wrath of the Bolton faithful after they felt Elmander was fouled by Hangeland on the edge of the box, however waved play on. The replay also showed the centre-back won the ball cleanly.

The official then awarded Fulham a soft-looking free-kick when Fabrice Muamba made contact with Aaron Hughes, before ignoring the home crowd's cries for a penalty as Lee Chung-yong went down in the box under a Murphy tackle, which again on the replay showed the midfielder timed his challenge beautifully.

Elmander was unlucky not to score once more after the hard working Swede found himself in a shooting position only for Stockdale to deny the opener.

Zamora became frustrated and was the next person to show his displeasure with Attwell and received a booking after raising his hands to the official and appearing to grab his shirt.

Fulham were looking frustrated in general and Holden could have won it late on for the home side with 12 minutes to go but his drilled effort bounced back off the post.

Bolton boss Owen Coyle made a treble substitution in the final minutes, bringing on Matthew Taylor, Mark Davies and Ivan Klasnic for Petrov, Muamba and Elmander, but the visitors stood firm to earn their new manager his first point.


Bolton Wanderers
Team Statistics
Fulham

0 Goals
0

0 1st Half Goals
0

5 Shots on Target
4

5 Shots off Target
7

1 Blocked Shots
4

4 Corners
8

11 Fouls
14

5 Offsides
3

1 Yellow Cards
3

0 Red Cards
0

75 Passing Success
71.6

25 Tackles
18

80 Tackles Success
83.3

46.5 Possession
53.5

52.3 Territorial Advantage
47.7

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http://www.skysports.com/football/user_ratings/0,19768,11065_3285854,00.html


Fulham Player ratings 


Player Our Rating Your Rating Rate player

David Stockdale
Excellent saves  7 7.5  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Brede Hangeland
Colossal  8 7.2  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Stephen Kelly
Hard working  7 6.0  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
John Pantsil
Rash at times  6 5.7  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Aaron Hughes
Cool performance  7 6.2  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Danny Murphy
Great throughballs  6 5.7  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Simon Davies
Not involved enough  6 5.4  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Dickson Etuhu
Strong display  6 5.8  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Bobby Zamora
Tireless  7 6.8  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Damien Duff
Poor free-kicks  6 5.7  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Zoltan Gera
Very quiet  5 6.2  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Clint Dempsey
(Sub)
Tried 

[White Noise]

Bolton 0 Fulham 0

Published: Today

 
FULHAM made a low-key start to life under Mark Hughes after holding on for a point at Bolton on the opening day of the Premier League season.

Wanderers dominated the contest and were unlucky not to secure all three points when Stuart Holden struck the post in the 78th minute.

Johan Elmander was also denied on several occasions by Cottagers goalkeeper David Stockdale, who had been selected by Hughes ahead of Arsenal target Mark Schwarzer.       

The Australian was facing a late fitness test ahead of the match due to a back problem but his absence from the squad may also have been explained by the fact that he has recently handed in a transfer request with a view to joining the Gunners.

It was the hosts who carved out the first opportunity after 10 minutes as Elmander attempted a flick, collected the rebound and then dragged a shot wide to Stockdale's right.

A minute later at the other end, Fulham skipper Danny Murphy went closer with a low strike from outside the box.

Wanderers debutant Martin Petrov began to make his mark on the game and cut into the box incisively after being fed by Kevin Davies, only to be halted by a wonderfully-timed challenge by John Pantsil.

Gary Cahill connected with the corner which followed, but his downward header was comfortably collected by Stockdale and the centre-back leapt again in the box soon after but was unable to meet Petrov's inswinging free-kick.

Moments later, Petrov drove in a fierce effort which Stockdale had to dive to catch, before Bobby Zamora, looking confident after making his England debut in midweek, attempted an audacious lob that drifted just over Jussi Jaaskelainen's crossbar.

Having struggled to impose themselves, Fulham then enjoyed a spell of possession with Gretar Steinsson clearing a bouncing shot from Simon Davies and Zat Knight heading behind Damien Duff's free-kick.

But it was Bolton who continued to make the more legitimate chances, as Elmander dispossessed Dickson Etuhu and sent a powerful strike into the arms of Stockdale.

Jaaskelainen then got in a mix-up with Paul Robinson and fumbled his header, but the Finnish stopper dived on the ball before Zamora could capitalise.

Bolton were again the brighter side as the second half got under way, with Holden firing in an ambitious effort that rose off-target before Elmander collected Steinsson's cross in the box, swivelled and unleashed a snap-shot which Stockdale tipped over for a corner.

Having had a fairly quiet afternoon up until that point, referee Stuart Attwell was then heckled by the Bolton supporters after making a series of unpopular decisions.

First Elmander hit the deck after a collision with Brede Hangeland on the edge of the area, only for Attwell to wave play on.

The official then awarded Fulham a soft-looking free-kick when Fabrice Muamba made contact with Aaron Hughes, before ignoring the home crowd's cries for a penalty as Lee Chung-yong went down in the box under the challenge of Murphy.

Lee made a tame effort on goal moments later, but Elmander was unlucky not to score once more after working his way into a shooting position, with Stockdale on hand to avert the danger.

Zamora was the next person to show his displeasure with Attwell and received a booking after raising his hands to the official and appearing to grab his shirt.

Fulham were looking frustrated in general and Holden went closest to breaking the deadlock with just over 10 minutes to go, firing in a shot that bounced back off the post.

Bolton boss Owen Coyle made a treble substitution in the final minutes, bringing on Matthew Taylor, Mark Davies and Ivan Klasnic for Petrov, Muamba and Elmander, but the visitors stood firm to earn their manager his first point.

Bolton: Jaaskelainen, Steinsson, Cahill, Knight, Robinson, Lee, Muamba (Mark Davies 86), Holden, Petrov (Taylor 86), Kevin Davies, Elmander (Klasnic 90). Subs Not Used: Bogdan, Ricketts, Blake, Andrew O'Brien. Booked: Muamba.

Fulham: Stockdale, Pantsil, Hangeland, Hughes, Kelly, Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Duff, Gera (Dempsey 74), Zamora. Subs Not Used: Zuberbuhler, Baird, Riise, Stoor, Greening, Elm. Booked: Gera, Zamora, Pantsil. Att: 20,352

Ref: Stuart Attwell (Warwickshire).



Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3096039/Bolton-0-Fulham0.html#ixzz0wcGQ4rHJ

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Sparky: I'll go to Shwar for Mark


Published: Today


MARK HUGHES insists he can put the brakes on Mark Schwarzer's move to Arsenal.
The Gunners are hot on the trail of the Fulham keeper, who is keen on a switch to north London.

Hughes made shackling his stopper a top priority when he took over at Craven Cottage.

And asked if Schwarzer can be talked into staying at Fulham he said: "That is the intention, yes. Nothing has moved on.           

"Myself and Mark have had conversations and I fully understand the reasoning behind the fact that he maybe wants to take up the opportunity to join Arsenal.

"But I think he also understands that we have to protect our position as well, and that is what we are doing.

"We are not going to put Fulham's position or reputation at risk by making promises we can't fulfil, so at the moment it's very much the status quo and nothing has moved on."

Schwarzer sat out the Cottagers' draw with Bolton today — but club officials say the Aussie failed a fitness test.

Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3096320/Mark-Hughes-desperate-to-keep-Mark-Schwarzer-at-Fulham.html#ixzz0wcH6eroI