Sunday Fulham Stuff (14/01/18)...

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Results

Friday
Sheff Utd	0 - 0	Sheff Wed
Saturday
Cardiff	4 - 0	Sunderland
Barnsley	0 - 0	Wolves
Birmingham	0 - 3	Derby
Brentford	2 - 0	Bolton
Bristol City	0 - 1	Norwich
Burton	1 - 3	QPR
Hull	0 - 0	Reading
Ipswich	1 - 0	Leeds
Middlesborough	0 - 1	Fulham
Millwall	1 - 1	Preston NE
Nottm Forest	0 - 1	Aston Villa

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Middlesbrough 0-1 Fulham

Oliver Norwood's fifth goal of the season gave Fulham their fourth win in five league games

Oliver Norwood's penalty in the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time gave Fulham victory at fellow play-off hopefuls Middlesbrough.

The on-loan midfielder tucked in from the spot after he was tripped in the box by Boro's Grant Leadbitter.

Britt Assombalonga almost scored for the hosts moments before, but saw his effort come back off the crossbar.

Assombalonga's strike partner Rudy Gestede spurned two one-on-one chances in the first half.

The Benin international first miscontrolled when played in by Norwood's poor back pass, then dragged another effort wide of the post five minutes before the break.

Fulham had few chances, with Tomas Kalas hitting the side-netting and Stefan Johansen firing wide, but victory took Slavisa Jokanovic's side up to eighth in the table, one point off the play-off places.

Boro had penalty claims waved away when Martin Braithwaite went down in the box under the challenge of Kalas and the Dane fired an effort just wide after being played through in the second half.

The defeat was Tony Pulis' second in three Championship games following his appointment as Boro boss on 27 December, and the Teesside outfit are now two points outside the top six as they seek an immediate return to the Premier League.

Middlesbrough boss Tony Pulis said:
"I am disappointed because I thought we were the better side, especially in the first half when we had three or four chances and Fulham didn't do anything to hurt us. We were the dominant force.

"We didn't play as well in the second half but looking at the Braithwaite penalty, it is a really disappointing decision. We understand and recognise referees will make mistakes but when they affect matches they should be called into question.

"The player falls before Grant touches him. The big thing in the game nowadays is when legs tend to buckle without any challenge being made, which is difficult for referees to get right.

"I am not sure who is in charge of Championship referees but you would love to ask the referee why he didn't give it. It has happened to me loads of times but the disappointing thing is they get a penalty at the other end which was harder to call but he blew straight away."

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic said:
"They pushed each other (Braithwaite and Kalas) and the referee was in perfect position to make the decision.

"For our penalty, it was clearly a contact between Norwood and the Boro player and, again, the referee was in the perfect position to give the penalty.

"This is only three points and given us a positive push for the next challenge ahead. We want to win, and it is an important points and it is important to win these games. I think we will have positive week in front of us and (will be) ready for next time."




http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/42587428

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Head Coach Reaction

Slaviša Jokanović heralded his team for a "great win" and was very happy that Fulham found a way to take three points from The Riverside.

Oliver Norwood's penalty deep into second-half stoppage time was the only goal of the match, as the Whites won on Teesside for the first time since 1984.

"We must be satisfied," the Head Coach said. "It was a great win for us. This kind of victory—when we're fighting for important targets—we must win the types of game like the one we won today.

"This type of victory 100% encourages us, fills us with confidence, and gets us ready for the challenge that is ahead of us."

When he was asked if he expected to find a goal so late in the match, the Head Coach responded: "Why not? In the last 20 minutes we started to dominate the game, playing with more confidence. We moved the ball well and created some half-chances."

Jokanović was pleased with his side's grit, as they kept pushing until the final whistle. "We didn't plan to win the game with this type of moment, but it's a part of the game. It's part of the competition. And we must be especially satisfied with the result.

"It's a positive success for us. This is only three points, but it gives us a positive push for the next challenge that is ahead of us."

The Head Coach didn't want to rest on his laurels though, and encouraged his side to keep working.

"At the end of the day these are important points and it's important, when we fight for our targets, to win these types of games," he said.

"I expect we're going to have a positive week ahead of us, working hard and getting ready for the next step."




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/13/head-coach-reaction-middlesbrough

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Middlesbrough 0-1 Fulham: Player ratings as Tim Ream shines in defence

Fulham played out a 1-0 win at the Riverside in a game of very little goal mouth action

A last-minute Oliver Norwood penalty ensured Fulham took all three points from their trip to Middlesbrough.

Slavisa Jokanovic made three changes to the line up after the defeat to Southampton, with Tom Cairney only being fit enough to make a place on the bench.

There was an early let off for Fulham when Oliver Norwood's sloppy back pass nearly let Rudy Gestede in, but the striker got the ball tangled in his feet and Marcus Bettinelli cleared.

Fulham had their first effort on target in the 40th minute when Sheyi Ojo headed at Darren Randolph, but Middlesbrough should've been ahead seconds after - Gestede again the man through, but this time his deft chip was sent just wide of the post.

Martin Braithwaite had a great chance for Boro in the second when he beat Odoi to go one on one, but he slotted the ball into the side netting.

But Norwood's last second penalty ensured the points went back to Craven Cottage.

Here's how we rated the side:

Bettinelli 7: A few notable moments of a lack of communication with his defence. Did well with his one-on-ones and kept a clean sheet - good display.

Fredericks 6: Tried to get forward but was beaten to the ball by Friend a lot, leaving Fulham exploited at the back.

Ream 7: Had a really good first half, probably the only Fulham man you could say that about. Continued his fine game into the second 45. My man of the match.

Odoi 6: Some nice cover as Boro looked to play in between the centre backs in the first half. Slotted in at left back and dealt with Braithwaite fairly well in the second.

R Sessegnon 6: Was destroyed by Traore in the first half and had probably the most uncomfortable period of football he's ever had marking the Boro man. Immediately looked better when pushed further forward and was unlucky not to score.

Norwood 5: Big let off in the early stages when his sloppy backpass saw Gestede in. Not another good performance from Norwood, who slowed the ball down and looked generally sloppy.

McDonald 6: Caught in possession too many times in the middles of the park in the first half but picked up his game and did a good job of screening the back four and setting Fulham forward.

Johansen 5: Along with the other two central midfield players, was caught in possession far too many times. It wasn't a great performance from the Norwegian.

Ojo 5: Struggled to get onto the ball down the right but did get a header on target. Was replaced by Kalas after 52 minutes.

Kamara 5: Was marked out of the game in the first period and struggled to get any type of service. Didn't have any impact and was replaced by Fonte on the hour.

Piazon 5: Did very little with the ball in the first half going forward, while the Boro players went past him like he wasn't there defensively.

Subs-

Kalas 6: Was involved in a battle at centre half and was lucky not to give away a penalty.

Fonte 6: Continued to make the same runs we've seen him try and do in Fulham shirt, but again there was no end product today. Pressured high up the pitch.




https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/middlesbrough-0-1-fulham-player-14151144

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Norwood's penalty gives Fulham dramatic win at Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough 0 Fulham 1

Oliver Norwood's penalty in the fifth minute of injury time gave Fulham a dramatic victory.

Norwood scored from the spot after he was tripped in the area by Grant Leadbetter.

It came just after Middlesbrough had gone close to scoring when Britt Assombalonga's effort hit the bar.

Rudy Gestede missed two great chances for Boro, who had plenty of possession.

But Fulham dug in and massively boosted their play-off hopes by taking their chance when it came.



http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/norwoods-penalty-gives-fulham-dramatic-win-middlesbrough

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Middlesbrough 0-1 Fulham

Oliver Norwood struck a dramatic late penalty to earn Fulham a 1-0 win at Championship play-off rivals Middlesbrough.
The energetic midfielder won and converted the spot-kick deep into stoppage time to make Boro, who had hit the bar through Britt Assombalonga seconds earlier, pay for a few wasted chances.
The victory lifted Fulham a point above Middlesbrough, who also had their own strong calls for a penalty waved away earlier in the second half, and a point shy of the top six.
Fulham have steadily climbed the table since November and a run of four wins from five unbeaten matches building up to the Riverside trip had raised hope and expectations.
But, even though they asked full-backs Ryan Sessegnon and Ryan Fredericks to push on regularly, they struggled to gain an advantage in the final third initially.
Middlesbrough, who surprisingly only had leading scorer Assombalonga on the bench in favour of starting with the same team that defeated Sunderland in the FA Cup, looked more confident without really causing goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli any trouble.
Assombalonga's replacement Rudy Gestede was guilty of wasting Middlesbrough's best two chances of the opening period.
Even though he led the line reasonably well and worked hard, his finishing was disappointing.
Gestede should have scored in the fifth minute, or at least forced Bettinelli into a save. When he was fed the ball in behind the Fulham defence, he only had the keeper to beat but stumbled and the chance was gone.
Middlesbrough, with Adama Traore shining until he wasted his final delivery, should have done more with the possession they enjoyed. The only occasion Bettinelli had a save to make was from a header from Gestede, who was flagged offside.
And with half-time approaching Gestede had his second fantastic chance when he was played in behind the defence once more. With Bettinelli running straight for him and in a more central position, the Benin striker lifted his finish over the goalkeeper but saw his effort trickle wide and to safety.
The only occasion Fulham had threatened during that period was seconds earlier when Sessegnon's run to the byline and excellent cross ended with Darren Randolph holding a header from Aboubakar Kamara.
Neither manager changed anything at the break and Middlesbrough continued to show more going forward. Stewart Downing fired an effort from distance over while Martin Braithwaite's strong claims for a penalty after a shove from Tomas Kalas fell on deaf ears.
After Assombalonga was introduced for Gestede, Braithwaite should have scored after cleverly beating Dennis Odoi but could only find the side-netting with his finish.
Fulham could also have scored when Tomas Kalas did the same after the hosts did not react to a corner.
After Assombalonga had hit the bar at one end, the breakthrough finally came at the other when Norwood was tripped by Grant Leadbitter and got up to convert the penalty.
ends



http://www.espnfc.co.uk/report?gameId=483379

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Middlesbrough 0-1 Fulham: Oliver Norwood scores last-minute penalty winner

Oliver Norwood struck a dramatic late penalty to earn Fulham a 1-0 win at Championship play-off rivals Middlesbrough.

The energetic midfielder won and converted the spot-kick deep into stoppage time to make Boro, who had hit the bar through Britt Assombalonga seconds earlier, pay for a few wasted chances.

The victory lifted Fulham a point above Middlesbrough, who also had their own strong calls for a penalty waved away earlier in the second half, and a point shy of the top six.

Fulham have steadily climbed the table since November and a run of four wins from five unbeaten matches building up to the Riverside trip had raised hope and expectations.

But, even though they asked full-backs Ryan Sessegnon and Ryan Fredericks to push on regularly, they struggled to gain an advantage in the final third initially.

Middlesbrough, who surprisingly only had leading scorer Assombalonga on the bench in favour of starting with the same team that defeated Sunderland in the FA Cup, looked more confident without really causing goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli any trouble.

Assombalonga's replacement Rudy Gestede was guilty of wasting Middlesbrough's best two chances of the opening period.

Gestede should have scored in the fifth minute, or at least forced Bettinelli into a save. When he was fed the ball in behind the Fulham defence, he only had the keeper to beat but stumbled and the chance was gone.


Kevin McDonald and Oliver Norwood celebrate the 1-0 win over Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough, with Adama Traore shining until he wasted his final delivery, should have done more with the possession they enjoyed. The only occasion Bettinelli had a save to make was from a header from Gestede, who was flagged offside.

And with half-time approaching, Gestede had his second fantastic chance when he was played in behind the defence once more. With Bettinelli running straight for him and in a more central position, the Benin striker lifted his finish over the goalkeeper but saw his effort trickle wide and to safety.

The only occasion Fulham had threatened during that period was seconds earlier when Sessegnon's run to the byline and excellent cross ended with Darren Randolph holding a header from Aboubakar Kamara.

Neither manager changed anything at the break and Middlesbrough continued to show more going forward. Stewart Downing fired an effort from distance over while Martin Braithwaite's strong claims for a penalty after a shove from Tomas Kalas fell on deaf ears.

After Assombalonga was introduced for Gestede, Braithwaite should have scored after cleverly beating Denis Odoi but could only find the side-netting with his finish. Fulham could also have scored when Tomas Kalas did the same after the hosts did not react to a corner.

After Assombalonga had hit the bar at one end, the breakthrough finally came at the other when Norwood was tripped by Grant Leadbitter and got up to convert the penalty.

The managers

Tony Pulis: "I am disappointed because I thought we were the better side, especially in the first half when we had three or four chances and Fulham didn't do anything to hurt us. We were the dominant force.

"We didn't play as well in the second half but looking at the Braithwaite penalty, it is a really disappointing decision. We understand and recognise referees will make mistakes but when they affect matches they should be called into question."

Slavisa Jokanovic: "They pushed each other (Braithwaite and Kalas) and the referee was in perfect position to make the decision. For our penalty, it was clearly a contact between Norwood and the Boro player and, again, the referee was in the perfect position to give the penalty.

"This is only three points and given us a positive push for the next challenge ahead. We want to win, and it is an important points and it is important to win these games. I think we will have positive week in front of us and (will be) ready for next time."



http://www.skysports.com/football/mboro-vs-fulham/374939

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Middlesbrough 0 Fulham 1: Penalty controversy & missed chances leave Tony Pulis' side empty-handed

Referee Geoff Eltringham took centre stage at the Riverside as Boro somehow left empty-handed against the Cottagers

Fulham's last win at Middlesbrough came in 1984 when Nena's 99 Red Balloons was top of the UK charts and Police Academy dominated at the box office.

The Cottagers certainly got out of jail this afternoon as Boro screamed injustice, somehow leaving empty-handed despite dominating the match from the outset.

Referee Geoff Eltringham was the villain on Teesside, his decision to wave away a stone-wall penalty on Martin Braithwaite in the second half leaving Tony Pulis and the Riverside in disbelief.

Yet that later turned into exasperation as the whistler awarded Fulham a controversial spot-kick in the death that proved decisive.

For Boro, looking to build on their fine festive form by climbing into the top six with another victory, it was partly self-inflicted - a catalogue of missed chances adding to the deadly cocktail of Saturday misery.

Rudy Gestede twice spurned glorious openings before substitute Britt Assombalonga rattled the bar late on, and Pulis' decision to twist rather than stick with his second-half substitutions actually halted Boro's momentum in the final knockings.

But it was referee Eltringham who took centre stage as Boro dropped to ninth in the standings, with the second consecutive home league reverse constituting another missed opportunity.

Here's how the game panned out:
The livewire & costly missed chances

For Tony Pulis it was a first league meeting with Fulham outside of the top-flight since February 2000, but he didn't need to look too hard to discover what's been the Cottagers' weakness this season.

No side in the Championship have conceded more headed goals than the west Londoners, so it came as little surprise that Boro opted for another direct brand of Pulis-ball in a bid to maintain their sparkling run of form.

Within the first couple of minutes Ryan Shotton had launched two throw-in missiles into the Fulham box - and while neither fell to a Boro player, Slavisa Jokanovic will have winced as the nerves jangled in his back-line.

What followed was a dominant first-half display from Boro, showing a new-found tenacity and energy to squeeze their opponents to death in the midfield.


Adama Traore (Image: Evening Gazette)

Then came the chances, two of them in an impressive opening period, yet Gestede - preferred to Assombalonga in the XI as Pulis kept faith with the side that dispatched sorry Sunderland in the FA Cup seven days earlier - missed them both.

The first came inside seven minutes as Oliver Norwood's telegraphed back-pass was pounced upon by the big Benin forward, but Gestede failed to get his shot away before keeper Marcus Bettinelli raced out to thwart him as his legs tangled beneath him.

That followed a decent spell of Fulham possession, with Boro seemingly happy to sit off and retain their shape, but that mistake sparked Boro into life.

Pulis sensed weakness. So did Boro, with Adama Traore the expected livewire as he kept 17-year-old full-back Ryan Sessegnon busy.

In midfield, Jonny Howson and Grant Leadbitter snarled and snapped into tackles to win the ball back quickly, while Stewart Downing - again deployed centrally - acted as the glue in Boro's attack.

Sessegnon may be the Championship's most sought-after talent, linked with a £50m move to Tottenham this month, but he won't have endured a more difficult 45 minutes in his career as Traore terrorised him down Boro's right.

The 21-year-old is enjoying a new lease of life under Pulis, and he continued to give Boro the upper hand as he exploded into life in the final third, twice breaking to the by-line but seeing his low cut-back desperately hacked clear.

And while Fulham came into the game as the division's joint highest scorers on the road this season, all they had to show for in an awkward opening period was a miscued Stefan Johansen effort that sailed well over Darren Randolph's bar, while Sheyi Ojo - linked with Boro in the summer - headed straight at the Irish No 1.

Then came Boro's second opening five minutes before the break as Gestede - preferred to top scorer Assombalonga who sat out of his first league game this term - raced through on goal for the second time but prodded wide of Bettinelli's post, leaving Pulis flabbergasted on the sidelines.

Assombalonga was famously nicknamed 'sharpshooter' at Nottingham Forest for his enviable record in front of goal, and Boro's £15m may well have shuffled hopefully in his seat as Gestede passed up another glorious opening.

A stone-wall penalty waved away

Fulham started the second half with much more attacking intent, causing Boro a couple of early scares, but the game's lull coincided with a quick-fire change by the visiting boss.

On came former Boro loanee Tomas Kalas for the ineffectual Ojo, a move that allowed danger man Sessegnon to be relieved of his Traore task and moved further forward into the attacking front three.

And it was the Czech Republic international, part of Boro's promotion-winning class of 2015/16, who was immediately in the spotlight as he clumsily brought down the spinning Martin Braithwaite inside the area - with shouts of 'penalty' echoing around the Riverside.

It caused momentary bedlam in the dugout too as Pulis raced over to the fourth official in appeal, but the referee waved away the North Stand's passionate plea in a decision that riled the Teesside faithful.


Martin Braithwaite & Boro appeal (Image: Evening Gazette)

Understandably so too as replays showed the Boro attacker was clearly impeded, as the real-time judgement of 23,000+ inside the ground was proven correct.

How Pulis and Boro yearned for VAR to highlight their case, yet the passionate appeals from players and staff fell on deaf ears as Fulham survived again.

Then came the expected Boro change, Assombalonga getting the nod and replacing Gestede as the aggrieved home fans raised the noise levels heading into the final half hour.

It was finely poised between two sides harbouring top-six hopes having enjoyed a renaissance of late, Boro on the back of four wins from five and Fulham unbeaten in four league outings.

And it felt like the first goal would be crucial. Boro have won all 10 of their Championship matches this season after scoring the first goal, and Pulis continued to pace his technical area as his side probed.

The chances came too, at both ends, as Braithwaite lashed into the side-netting after bamboozling Dennis Odoi just moments before Kalas did the same with a close-range effort at the other end.

Sessegnon then saw his looped effort take a big deflection but thankfully into Randolph's arms, enough to convince Pulis to throw the dice one final time as Adam Clayton and Marvin Johnson replaced Traore and Braithwaite.

The changes seemed to confuse Boro's play rather than compliment it, however, as Fulham began to ask a few questions of their own.

As the hosts tried to get to grips with their new system, Jokanovic's previously-timid side finally found their voice.

Late drama at either end

Boro were certainly in the ascendancy when playing a more direct approach, but there's no doubt that the Cottagers benefited as the game became more fluid.

Yet it was Boro who were left ruing their misfortune in stoppage time as Assombalonga smartly broke through and chipped Bettinelli.

As the Riverside rose to its feet waiting for the net to ripple, the groans that followed seconds later told its own story.

And as the ball cannoned off the top of the crossbar, you got the feeling it just wasn't going to be Boro's day.

You could say that again, as Fulham broke down the other end and were awarded the penalty that Boro felt they had deserved earlier in the half.

Norwood took a tumble under the challenge of captain Leadbitter, with referee Eltringham pointing to the spot, and it was a case of deja vu for Boro.

Back in October, they were beaten by a late penalty at home to Cardiff - and they suffered the same fate again as the boos rung around the Riverside, Norwood picking himself up and converting from 12 yards to hand the Cottagers a smash & grab away win.

For Boro and Pulis, there was clear frustration, anger and exasperation. How didn't they win that game, let alone lose it?



http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/middlesbrough-0-fulham-1-penalty-14152116

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MIDDLESBROUGH: Tony Pulis frustrated by match deciding penalty decisions and wasted chances after Fulham defeat

TONY Pulis was not amused with referee Geoff Eltringham's big penalty decisions that led to Middlesbrough losing in dramatic fashion at the Riverside Stadium.

Fulham were awarded a spot-kick in the fifth minute of added time after Grant Leadbitter had been adjudged to have tripped Oliver Norwood in the box. Norwood then converted.

That came after Middlesbrough had had their own shouts for a penalty turned down when Martin Braithwaite appeared to have been shoved to the floor by Boro old boy Tomas Kalas.

Pulis, clearly annoyed afterwards, was also disappointed with the number of chances Middlesbrough missed. Rudy Gestede, Braithwaite and Britt Assombalonga, who hit the bar seconds before the winner, were all guilty.

Pulis said: "We didn't play as well in the second-half but looking at the Braithwaite penalty, it is a really disappointing decision. We understand and recognise referees will make mistakes but when they affect matches they should be called into question.

"It has happened to me loads of times but the disappointing thing is they get a penalty at the other end which was harder to call but he blew straight away, he probably has his reasons why.

"I am not sure who is in charge of Championship referees but you would love to ask the referee why he didn't give it."

Pulis did sympathise with the challenges faced by referees in the modern game outlining that it is difficult to get these decisions right with the modern fad of players' legs buckling without being challenged.

He said: "The player falls before Grant touches him. The big thing in the game nowadays is when legs tend to buckle without any challenge being made, which is difficult for referees to get right."

Pulis admitted the blame can't all be laid at referee Eltringham's feet as Boro did have several good chances to put the game to bed.

He added: "Our players have made mistakes and missed opportunities you would expect them to put away so it is not all down to the referee."

The end result disappointed Pulis who outlined his disappointment in losing in such a manner when for the most part Middlesbrough were the superior team.

Pulis said: "I am disappointed because I thought we were the better team, especially in the first-half when we had three or four chances and Fulham didn't do anything to hurt us. We were the dominant force."

"The biggest disappointment is for the chances we created, you would expect the players we have in the team to take those chances. If we had scored the first goal, I think we would have won it comfortably."



http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/football/middlesbrough/15826720.MIDDLESBROUGH__Tony_Pulis_frustrated_by_match_deciding_penalty_decisions_and_wasted_chances_after_Fulham_defeat/

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Norwood's late penalty steals the points
by Sarah on January 13, 2018

If the makers of a footballing dictionary needed to define the sucker punch, they'd probably include a picture of Ollie Norwood's late penalty at the Riverside Stadium this afternoon. The Brighton loanee's spot-kick in the fifth minute of stoppage time handed Fulham, who had been pushed onto the back foot by Tony Pulis' sense of adventure from the first whistle, a barely believable first victory at Middlesbrough in 33 years after the home side had made all the running.

While Pulis will rue costly misses from Rudy Gestede and Britt Assombalonga, Slavisa Jokanovic can salute the spirit of his players after a backs-to-the-wall effort reminiscent of the one that earned Fulham a scoreless draw here in 2015 helped to put their promotion ambitions back on track. The visitors offered more of a threat on the break the longer the game went on and ruthlessly punished Assombalonga for striking the crossbar when he seemed certain to score in stoppage time. Boro were ultimately undone by the fact that failed to register a single shot on target despite promising much in the final third.

Norwood, who was only featuring in the starting line-up because captain Tom Cairney had been only fit enough to take a place on the bench, had a difficult afternoon in Fulham's swamped midfield but found himself in the Boro box deep into added time. He induced an untimely tackle from the otherwise impeccable Grant Leadbitter and then proved himself Fulham's most reliable penalty taker by sending Darren Randolph the wrong way to secure an improbable victory. It all seemed so unlikely when Boro began the game on the front foot eager to make the most of the feelgood factor that had accompanied five wins from their last five fixtures.

The home side flew out of the traps eager to make up ground on the top six. They were almost handed the dream start when Norwood underhit a backpass but Rudy Gestede – surprisingly preferred to Britt Assombalonga up front – failed to round Marcus Bettinelli, who had raced to met the Boro forward on the edge of the box.

Middlesbrough's best moments came from the former Barcelona winger Adama Traore, whose electric pace down the right flank gave Ryan Sessegnon his toughest test in senior football. The swift Spaniard had offered an early warning of his threat when he surged into the penalty area and nearly created a chance for Stewart Downing before seeing his own effort deflect wide off Denis Odoi. Perhaps his best moment came when he outfought Aboubakar Kamara for possession and burst away from three Fulham tacklers on his way to sending in a dangerous cross that was turned behind by the retreating Odoi.

Jonny Howson sent a speculative effort wide from distance before turning provider for the game's best chance. A glorious through ball split the Fulham centre halves sending Gestede clear on goal, but the former Aston Villa forward again fluffed his lines as Bettinelli advanced – dragging his finish wide as he tried to dink it over the Fulham goalkeeper. Middlesbrough should have been a couple of goals up at the break, but much to the home crowd's exasperation, Pulis's side had nothing to show for their dominance.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side played their ususal passing football – but the Serbian looked furious on the touchline as the first period went by with little penetration. The visitors only found their feet towards the end of the half when, after Stefan Johansen and Kevin McDonald had sent long-range efforts high over the crossbar, Fulham's best move saw Lucas Piazon release Sessegnon and the full back's floated cross was headed straight at Randolph by Sheyi Ojo.

With Middlesbrough continuing to enjoy the ascendancy in the second period, Jokanovic's first change was designed to shore up his side's position. The Serbian brought on former Middlesbrough defender Tomas Kalas to replace Sheyi Ojo, switching Odoi to left back and allowing Sessegnon to move up to the left wing. The move immediately gave Fulham a new impetus with the seventeen year old beating two Boro defenders and sending over a cross that narrowly eluded Lucas Piazon.

Then came a moment for real fortune for the Londoners. Kalas appeared to have bundled over Martin Braithwaite as both players tussled in pursuit of a cross – but referee Geoff Eltringham waved away Middlesbrough's vociferous appeals for a penalty. Pulis then threw on Assombalonga, who memorably ended Felix Magath's Fulham reign with a poacher's hat-trick whilst he was at Nottingham Forest, in search of a breakthrough and the pacey forward quickly unsettled the reshaped Fulham back four with a couple of intelligent runs.

Fulham were becoming more of a threat on the break. A short corner found Kalas in space at the near post but the centre half lashed a good chance into the side netting – and then the speedy Sessegnon skipped into the Boro box only for the excellent Ben Gibson to produce a goal-saving challenge as he was preparing to pull the trigger. The hosts still enjoyed the lion's share of the ball and Assombalonga spurned two chances to clinch a vital win in the closing stages. He was crowded out by a combination of Kalas and Bettinelli as he squeezed a shot into the side netting from close range and then, having sprinted away from Tim Ream, chipped the Fulham keeper only for his shot to come back off the crossbar. Assombalonga reached the rebound first, but scuffed his follow-up wide.

By this point, Jokanovic's men would have been forgiven for clinging on for a point they scarcely merited. Instead, Fulham clinched three precious points that left them just one point outside the top six when Norwood kept his cool to convert the spot-kick he won in the fifth minute of added time. Middlesbrough paid the harshest penalty for Grant Leadbitter's ill-advised lunge on the Northern Irish midfielder and Norwood picked himself up to fire into the bottom corner from twelve yards.

MIDDLESBROUGH (4-2-3-1): Randolph; Shotton, Friend, Ayala, Gibson; Leadbitter, Howson, Downing, Traore (Johnson 82), Braithwaite (Clayton 81); Gestede (Assombalonga 63). Subs (not used): Konstantopoulos, Christie, Bamford, Fletcher.

BOOKED: Friend, Howson.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Bettinelli; Fredericks, R. Sessegnon, Odoi, Ream; McDonald, Norwood, Johansen; Ojo (Kalas 52), Piazon (Kebano 86), Kamara (Fonte 57). Subs: Button, S. Sessegnon, Edun, Cairney.

BOOKED: Johansen, Fredericks, Odoi.

REFEREE: Geoff Eltringham (County Durham).

ATTENDANCE: 23,850.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/middlesbrough-v-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

 
Pulis furious at Fulham vs Middlesbrough penalty decisions - and he wasn't the only one

Referee Geoff Eltringham waved away penalty claims when Martin Braithwaite hit the deck - but later awarded Fulham a last gasp spot kick

Tony Pulis was left baffled and "really disappointed" by two controversial refereeing decisions which went against Middlesbrough in the home sucker punch defeat to Fulham.

Pulis waited by the tunnel at full-time to question Geoff Eltringham after the referee had waved away what appeared an absolute nailed on penalty for a Tomas Kalas foul on Martin Braithwaite, before then pointing to the spot in the final seconds when Fulham's Oliver Norwood hit the deck.

Boro skipper Grant Leadbitter who committed what was adjudged to be a foul in the box was furious with the decision. As was Pulis, who told BBC Tees the decision to not give the "stonebanker" Braithwaite penalty but to award the other in the dying seconds was "really disappointing".

And Pulis wasn't the only one furious at the decision, with Boro fans taking to social media at full-time to express their dismay.

While Boro can rightly feel aggrieved by the second half decisions at the Riverside, they should have had the game wrapped up long before conceding that last gasp sucker punch.

The hosts carved out a string of chances but spurned them, with striker Rudy Gestede missing two one-on-ones in the first half. He was replaced by Britt Assombalonga in the second, and the £15m missed a glorious opportunity of his own as he hit the bar in stoppage time.

Moments later, Fulham were ahead. As ex-Boro man Ryan Fredericks put it on social media, the visitors "nicked it".



http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/pulis-furious-fulham-vs-middlesbrough-14152339

[WhiteJC]

Jokanovic's joy at Fulham's 'great win'
by Dan on January 13, 2018

Slavisa Jokanovic praised his players for never giving up after they secured what he described as 'a great win' with virtually the last kick of the game at Middlesbrough this afternoon.

The Fulham head coach hailed his team's character after they absorbed constant pressure from Tony Pulis' team before moving to within just a point of the Championship play-offs thanks to Ollie Norwood's penalty in the fifth minute of stoppage time. Jokanovic told his post-match press conference at the Riverside Stadium:

It was a great win for us. This kind of victory – when we're fighting for important targets – we must win the types of game like the one we won today. This type of victory 100% encourages us, fills us with confidence, and gets us ready for the challenge that is ahead of us.

The Serbian was briefly bemused when he was asked whether he was surprised that Fulham's winner arrived so late in the contest.

Why not? We didn't plan to win the game with this type of moment, but it's a part of the game. It's part of the competition. And we must be especially satisfied with the result. In the last 20 twenty minutes we started to dominate the game, playing with more confidence. We moved the ball well and created some half-chances.

Jokanovic believes the manner of Fulham's win over a potential play-off rival could fill his side with confidence as they attempt to repeat last season's feat and put together a late run to get into the top six.

It's a positive success for us. This is only three points, but it gives us a positive push for the next challenge that is ahead of us. I expect we're going to have a positive week ahead of us, working hard and getting ready for the next step.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/jokanovics-joy-at-fulhams-great-win/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham looking to sign Norwich City striker Nelson Oliveira?

Fulham have reportedly identified Norwich City forward Nelson Oliveira as a potential transfer target.

The Cottagers have failed to replicate their form of last season - where they reached the Championship playoffs - but they still sit in 10th place in the second-tier standings, just six points off the top six.

However, the club's top goalscorer is left-back Ryan Sessegnon, who has netted seven times, and head coach Slavisa Jokanovic would prefer to add more firepower to his squad despite having little say over transfers.

According to The Sun, the West Londoners could launch an approach for Oliveira, who has been tipped to leave Carrow Road during the January transfer window.

The Portuguese striker is highly regarded, but the 26-year-old has contributed just seven goals in 20 outings in the league this season and could be sold for a fee in the region of £8m.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/fulham-looking-to-sign-nelson-oliveira_316149.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham manager applauds Middlesbrough penalty decisions: 'The referee was in the perfect position'

The Fulham manager supported both of referee Geoff Eltringham's major decisions at the Riverside & hailed his side's display

Slavisa Jokanovic felt referee Geoff Eltringham was in the "perfect position" to make both of his controversial penalty calls as Fulham secured their first-ever win at the Riverside.

The game was decided in the dying seconds as Oliver Norwood tumbled under the challenge of Boro captain Grant Leadbitter, before the midfielder picked himself up and swept home from 12 yards.

Earlier in the second half, Tony Pulis and the Boro faithful were left exasperated as the whistler waved away Martin Braithwaite's appeal, with replays clearly showing the Dane was unlawfully impeded by Tomas Kalas.

Yet after a game of penalty drama and a catalogue of missed chances, it was Fulham who celebrated their first win on Teesside since 1984.

After the game, Jokanovic was asked about both penalty decisions - and he had a very different view to the furious Pulis.

"We must be satisfied, it is a great win for us," he said. "They missed one great chance and then we got a goal and this is the kind of victory you must get if you have an important target.

"In the last 20 minutes we started to dominate and had more confidence and had some half chances.

"We didn't plan to win the game at that moment but they missed chances and we scored the goal."

Quizzed on the two penalty decisions, Jokanovic added: "They pushed each other and the referee was in perfect position to make the (Braithwaite) decision.

"For our penalty, it was clearly a contact between Norwood and the Boro player and, again, the referee was in the perfect position to give the penalty."

The result sees Boro drop to ninth in the Championship table, with Fulham - now unbeaten in five league outings - leapfrogging Pulis' men in the standings.

"This is only three points and given us a positive push for the next challenge ahead," Jokanovic said.

"We want to win, and it is an important (three) points and it is important to win these games.

"I think we will have positive week in front of us and we will be ready for next time."



http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-manager-applauds-middlesbrough-penalty-14152387

[WhiteJC]

Jokanovic says referee got penalty calls right
by Dan on January 13, 2018

Fulham head coach Slavisa Jokanovic said referee Geoff Eltringham was correct with crucial penalty decisions at either end of the pitch after the Whites' first win on Teesside in more than three decades was tinged with controversy.

County Durham official Eltringham angered the home fans and Boro boss Tony Pulis after failing to award Middlesbrough a penalty when Fulham substitute Tomas Kalas appealed to bundle over Marlon Braithwaite in the box. Whilst Pulis was convinced his side should have been given a spot-kick, Jokanovic felt the collision was more of an accidental coming together.

Asked about the incident during his post-match press conference, the Serbian head coach said:

    They pushed each other and the referee was in [a] perfect position to make the decision.

The Fulham boss was similarly forthright when quizzed on the referee's award of a stoppage-time spot-kick when Ollie Norwood tumbled over Grant Leadbitter's challenge. Jokanovic said:

    For our penalty, it was clearly a contact between Norwood and the Boro player and, again, the referee was in the perfect position to give the penalty.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/jokanovic-says-referee-got-penalty-calls-right/

[WhiteJC]

 
Manchester United target Ryan Sessegnon commits short-term future to Fulham, club reveals

Manchester United will have to wait to sign young Fulham left-back Ryan Sessegnon if they wish to pursue the Englishman.

The 17-year-old's current club have revealed Sessegnon will be staying at the club until at least the end of the season as they try to push for promotion back to the Premier League.

Man United have, unsurprisingly as one of the country's top clubs, linked with one of the country's most exciting prospects.

However, Fulham vice-chairman Tony Khan told the Telegraph that Sessegnon won't be joining United.

"As it's been the subject of a great deal of speculation, I'd like to announce that Ryan Sessegnon is staying with Fulham football club and will not be departing during this January transfer window," Khan said.

"Ryan is a very important part of the Fulham family, and we're grateful that he'll be with us as we fight to achieve promotion this season."

Sessegnon has already played over 50 times for Fulham despite being only 17. He's this season's top goalscorer at Craven Cottage, having netted a hat-trick against Sheffield United back in November.

He played his first full season under Slavisa Jokanovic in the last campaign, appearing 30 times. Now he's a regular at left-back or on the left-wing.

An England U19 international, Jokanovic was delighted with the news: "This is fantastic news for myself, the club, supporters, and for Ryan too.

"He can be focused on his daily work and competing with Fulham," he told BBC Radio London.

He added: "We're probably going to start talking about a similar story in the summer, but now it's a safe situation for us."

Clubs will undoubtedly look to take Sessegnon away from his boyhood club in the summer such is his talent. But he'll cost a lot. United were reported to be considering a bid in excess of £20m for him.




http://thepeoplesperson.com/2018/01/13/manchester-united-target-ryan-sessegnon-commits-short-term-future-to-fulham-club-reveals-193391/

[WhiteJC]

Middlesbrough 0-1 Fulham: Player ratings
by Sarah on January 13, 2018

Sarah scores Slavisa Jokanovic's men out of ten after the Whites managed to come away with all three points having pulled off the ultimate smash and grab raid at the Riverside Stadium this afternoon ...

Marcus Bettinelli: It seems slightly unbelievable that the Fulham goalkeeper wasn't called upon to make a single save given all the pressure that the Whites had to soak up. That didn't mean that Bettinelli had a quiet afternoon. He commanded and cajoled his defence impressively – and was characteristically vocal throughout – and when his team needed him, the academy graduate came up big. He raced from his goal-line to put off Martin Braithwaite when he was let in by Ollie Norwood's sloppy pass and then made himself big as Rudy Gestede bore down on goal just before the break. 7

Ryan Fredericks: An energetic performance from the full back and it needed to be with George Friend attempting to restrict his attacking influence by bombing on for Boro. Fredericks did get forward as much as he would normally do, largely kept occupied by Middlesbrough's direct approach and how the home side started the game on the front foot, but he did his defensive duties impressively and was a key part of the defence that kept another important clean sheet. 6

Denis Odoi: A surprisingly pick ahead of Tomas Kalas, Odoi produced another understated display at centre back. Dealt with the threat of Rudy Gestede in the first half and, having been switched to left back for the majority of the second period, quelled the previously lively Braithwaite effectively. Repelled Boro's direct attempts to hit balls between himself and Ream in the first half and was a confident distributor of the ball when the midfield needed a break. 7

Tim Ream: Marked his hundredth Fulham appearance with the kind of commanding performance we have come to count upon from the American. Never looked hassled even though the Whites had to soak up incessant Boro pressure in the first 25 minutes and still looked as relaxed on the ball as ever. Coped well with Gestede and then Assombalonga – only letting the substitute go for the chance that he pinged against the crossbar in stoppage time. It is this sort of determined showing that has largely consigned Michael Madl, who started last season ahead of him, to the periphery of the Fulham squad. 8

Ryan Sessegnon: Had a rough first half against the raw pace of Adama Traore in his toughest assignment in senior football. Still showed admirable strength and no little foot speed of his own to recover his position on occasions but it was no surprise that Fulham started to make more of an impression going forward once he had been moved into the left wing position. Created two openings with determined runs down the flank and almost played in Johansen with a lovely solo run as well. 7

Kevin McDonald: The stand-in skipper, usually so dependable at the base of the midfield, looked as if he was badly off his game in the first half an hour as Boro looked to blow Fulham. Struggled to assert himself on proceedings and kept on giving the ball away – although he was hardly alone in that. Much better in the second half, giving the back four some much-needed protection, and carrying the ball forward from deep. 6

Stefan Johansen: A hit and miss performance from the Norwegian. Booked for an early over-zealous tackle and struggled to find both his range of passing and touch, frequently being robbed by the Boro midfielders. Gradually recovered his composure and, at times in the second half, looked the most likely to make something happen for Fulham in the absence of Tom Cairney. 6

Ollie Norwood: Almost handed Middlesbrough the dream start with a ridiculously underhit backpass that gave Gestede a glorious chance. Was understandably cautious in possession, given how Fulham were being forced onto the back foot at times. but become more effective once Pulis threw on a couple more forwards and went even more direct. Slowed the play down more than once – but this was an afternoon for giving his team-mates a breather – and his desire to deliver a gamechanging moment saw him in the box when he was felled by Grant Leadbitter. Converted the penalty with customary coolness. 7

Sheyi Ojo: Struggled to get in the game as Fulham's wide men fed on scraps for much of the first half. Was eager to put himself about for the cause – frequently tracking back as well as making positive forward runs. Got himself on the end of a flowing move just before the break, directing a downward diving header straight at Darren Rudolph from Ryan Sessegnon's cross. It was a sign of how the game was going when he was replaced by Kalas seven minutes after the break. 6

Lucas Piazon: A tough return to the league starting line-up for the Brazilian, who looked a little short of a gallop against a physical side embodying their manager's robust approach. Wanted too many touches in possession and was breezed past by Traore as the Spaniard surged away from several black shirts. He'll be better for more game time in his legs though. Gave way for Neeskens Kebano with five minutes to play. 5

Aboubakar Kamara: A quiet afternoon for the big French striker, who was nullified throughout by Ben Gibson. Never really got a sight of goal but didn't stop trying. Found himself out on the flanks often as Fulham fought to establish a foothold in the contest. Was replaced by Rui Fonte on the hour mark. 6

Substitutes:

Tomas Kalas (on for Sheyi Ojo, 52): Shored up a Fulham defence that, at times during a shaky first half looked as though it might gave in, with a gritty performance on his return to the Riverside. Got involved in a wrestling match with Braithwaite straight away and was incredibly fortunate not to concede a penalty after appearing to shove him over in the box. 6

Rui Fonte (on for Aboubakar Kamara, 57): Offered more finesse than Kamara as a false nine, dropping deep to give his midfielders a short ball and link the play. Covered plenty of ground in pressing the Middlesbrough defence – something Kamara struggled with today – and made a number of smart runs off the shoulder. Had no opportunities in front of goal, but put in a valuable shift for the team. 6

Neeskens Kebano (on for Lucas Piazon, 85): Came on with five minutes to go and had a central part in the game's decisive moment. Battled to win half a yard of space inside the box well into the stoppage time and his deflected cross fell kindly for Norwood, who was felled by Leadbitter. 6



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/middlesbrough-0-1-fulham-player-ratings/

[WhiteJC]

Middlesbrough win was 'massive,' says McDonald
by Dan on January 13, 2018

Stand-in skipper Kevin McDonald says Fulham's first win at Middlesbrough since 1984 was a 'massive' result that could help kickstart the club's Championship promotion push.

The Scottish schemer, who led the side in the absence of regular captain Tom Cairney, saluted the Whites' solid defensive display that proved the basis for what he described as a 'massive three points' that came courtesy of Oliver Norwood's 95th minute penalty at the Riverside. McDonald told BBC Radio London that Fulham hadn't taken Tony Pulis' new team lightly, preparing for a tough assignment on Teesside:

    It was a great result for us in the end. We knew it was always going to be a tough game for us coming here. They set up well, defended well – obviously we did as well, but it was a massive three points for us. I'm not sure if it was a penalty or not, I'll have to have a look at that, but it was a massive three points and I felt it was a good game.

The 29 year-old hopes that the manner of the victory, which took Fulham to within a single point of the play-off positions, can provide real momentum at a crucial stage of the season. McDonald is certainly confident that Fulham will be battling for a place in the top six at the end of the campaign:

    I think we're going to be up there – there's no doubt about that. We took a bit of time to get going but we're slowly creeping up the table and I think we're going to be there or thereabouts. Today's obviously a big result and we've got to keep plugging away. We've got Burton Albion at home next weekend. It's a great chance to take three points and we need to go in with the same attitude that we did today.

McDonald revealed that the preparation for the trip to the north east had focused on Middlesbrough's attacking threats, particularly how to combat the pace of winger Adama Traore and the aerial threat posed by Rudy Gestede.

    We knew it was going to be that way. We knew Traore was going to cause us problems – he's so fast, he's incredible, to be honest with you. They obviously played the long ball up to Gestede. We knew it was going to be a tough start with the fans behind them – as soon as they get a bit of momentum, it's hard to deal with. I thought we defended well, we battled away well enough to keep a clean sheet.

The former Wolves midfielder was not surprised to see the visitors come more into the contest in the second period as Fulham began to exploit some of the gaps Middlesbrough left as they went in search of that elusive opening goal.

    It was always going to open up and up. I felt we got more of the ball and better with the ball we looked more direct and we looked to play in the gaps and stuff. I thought towards the end – apart from [Britt] Assombalonga's chance – if anyone was going to win it, it was going to be us.

The midfielder also shared how much he was enjoying his deployment at the base of the Fulham midfield in a role created for him by Slavisa Jokanovic.

    I'm used to it now – the gaffer wants me in that position. I enjoy doing the dirty side, but at the same time I like to get on the ball and start the attacks. I've played here eighteen months. It's a difficult kind of role from what I've played before and I really enjoy it. I thought personally I'd done well today and as a team I thought we were a good team.

He was pleased to come out on the end of some real drama in added time as Fulham punished Assombalonga for striking the bar by scoring with the last kick of the game when Northern Ireland international Norwood won and converted a late spot-kick.

    It was fantastic for us to score. We've had penalty problems in the past, so I'm sure half our fans were thinking, 'Here we go again'. Luckily enough, Ollie [Norwood] stepped up confidently with a good penalty and he got the three points for us.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/middlesbrough-win-was-massive-says-mcdonald/

[WhiteJC]

 
Anthony Vickers verdict on Middlesbrough being just as guilty as the referee in Fulham defeat

It's easy to point the finger of blame but Boro failed to make their dominance count, writes Anthony Vickers

The lights blazed late into the night at the Riverside with the pitch taped off and SOCO specialists doing a forensic fingertip search looking for evidence.

Boro were robbed. Fulham made a gleeful hasty getaway on their team-coach while there was a wheel spin and screeching rapid exit from the officials car-park too.

The highlights are as likely to feature on Crimewatch as the sports report, the post match narrative feels more like a police procedural than the usual 'five things we learned.' And outraged fans crying for blood have a suspect firmly in their sights.

The explosion of righteous indignation from the home supporters was directed firmly at the referee for two contentious penalty decisions.

Boro players and the boss were angry and disappointed over the stoppage time spot-kick conceded but Grant Leadbitter had his foot strategically well placed when he shifted his body weight and gave Norwood a crafty little nudge and the contact - to dip into the big bag of football cliches - "gave the referee a decision to make." And "you've seen 'em given."

It was more the tension of the timing and the stinging consequences of the sanction that followed than the mechanics of the moment that caused the uproar over that.

That would probably be a penalty even if they did wheel out VAR. Most fans would be jumping up, pointing angrily and screaming should that be against Boro. I know I would.

But it is the one that wasn't given that most Boro fans would regard the great miscarriage of justice.

That is the one that live in folk memory, the one that a metaphor mixing manager Tony Pulis described as "a stone banker."


Fulham score a late winner at the Riverside

That was the one that had Boro fans furiously Googling the referee only to find he was a life-long Sunderland fan, a discovery that threw petrol on the flames of fury and led to fevered talk of conspiracy where cock-up was the key.

The foul by Tomas Kalas on Martin Braithwaite was part wrestling manoeuvre, part full-body frisk by sullen border guards and part British Bulldog takedown.

The defender is pulling, pushing and blocking off using several different limbs all in one action, which is quite impressive in some ways.

You can argue that Braithwaite should have been stronger, shrugged it off and tore himself free - an old-fashioned concept - but in an era of contact meaning "you have the right to go down" few forwards would do that. And a Half-Nelson does constitute contact. It was nailed on. And the ref was well placed to see it.

Boro should have had a penalty and that is where the fury will be directed in an irate inquest.

But if Boro were 'robbed' then they have to take responsibility for leaving all the doors and windows open while they snoozed.

It is easy to point to the last gasp penalty as the moment that defined the match - or indeed the spot-kick that wasn't given - but Boro should have been out of sight by then.

The first half missed sitters were just as much crimes against football as any refereeing howlers.

The officials are easy scapegoats - and make no mistake, the ref had a bad day at the office - but had Boro made their first half domination count then the late penalty would have been a late consolation at best.

Rudy Gestede played well. No, seriously, he did. Being a lone targetman is a tough gig. With your back to goal you get clattered and battered and you can't see the hits coming - but the big man won most of the headers and was brilliant in controlling with his chest, bringing the ball down and laying it off for Stewart Downing or Jonny Howson to recycle swiftly and spark an attack.

His tactical importance to the Tony Pulis system can be seen be looking at how the shape started to crumble once he was replaced, the out balls went astray and were quickly collected and thrown back as the pressure mounted. He plays a key role in the team.

But twice when through on goal with time and space the failed to hit the target.

In the first instance he was alert to dart into the box onto a slack back pass then stumbled over the ball as he tried to round the keeper then fumbled the ball wide.

And given a second golden chance he burst onto a slotted pass through the middle to the edge of the box but he looked like he was wearing clown shoes for his poor first touch that pushed it too far and gave the keeper a crucial fraction to close the gap and then the striker's rushed poke squirted outside the upright.

For a striker to twice bungle one-on-ones is every inch as much ineptitude as the ref showed.

Boro played well in the first half. They had a good shape, the played the ball around crisply and they were fluid up front.

The midfield did well to knit together some neat passing to find space and several times almost broke through and electric runs from Adama Traore repeatedly ripped Fulham apart.

It was a positive first 45 - but they never had a shot on target.

And in the second half Boro allowed the visitors to claw back into the game.

Taking Gestede off meant the direct approach floundered (although Britt Assombalonga twice almost broke through and did chip onto the bar), the switch of Traore to the left flank made him less effective and let Ryan Sessegnon start to assert his influence and the late changes in midfield conceded the initiative to Fulham.

It is easy to point the finger and boo the pantomime villain and ring 999 demanding the police investigate a crime.

But that was a game that Boro dominated but failed to kill off. A game where they missed golden opportunities.

They weren't so much robbed as gave the game away.



http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/anthony-vickers-verdict-middlesbrough-being-14152628

[WhiteJC]

Tim Ream: 100 not out
by Dan on January 14, 2018

These days the Fulham website always runs a poll shortly after the final whistle has sounded on a matchday asking the fans to pick their man of the match. It was a surprise to see the regular feature there last night after the Whites snuck away from the Riverside Stadium with all three points – given that the results could only lead to a landslide in favour of the peerless Tim Ream. His peerless performance was the primary reason why Slavisa Jokanovic's side recorded the precious clean sheet that meant they could profit from Ollie Norwood's late, late penalty.

Ream's resolute contribution was all the more fitting because it marked a century of appearances in the Fulham back line in the many we have become accustomed to seeing. The St. Louis native was fearless in the air against a much taller opponent in Rudy Gustede, read the game superbly and passed the ball so well that you were left wondering whether he was really a midfielder in disguise. It is that comfort in distributing the ball that gave him an opportunity in the first team when Slavisa Jokanovic was searching for a ball-playing centre half this time last year – and the dependable American defender has never looked back.

It hasn't always been this way, of course. Ream endured a pretty dispiriting start to life at Craven Cottage having been brought in by Kit Symons and the then head of football operations Mike Rigg to try and plug the leaks in a ragtag Fulham defence. Paired with Richard Stearman at the heart of a reshaped back four, Ream struggled to recapture the form that had seen him win the player of the year award as a popular Bolton defender for many years and, by the time Jokanovic was plotting a course away from the Championship relegation zone, was being used as an occasional left back.

When Tomas Kalas arrived on loan from Chelsea at the start of last season and struck up an encouraging partnership with Michael Madl, it looked as though the sun might be setting on Ream's brief Fulham career. Ream, having played alongside a number of partners in his early months at the Cottage, suddenly found himself watching from the sidelines as the Whites began to threaten at the right end of the table but, rather than sulking, he redoubled his efforts to contribute to the squad. Jokanovic was impressed by his work ethic during pre-season and the defender's desire to seek out just what the coach was looking for from his centre backs – that proved just as crucial as the St. Louis native's patience as it turned out.

Jokanovic initially turned to another of the club's big money signings – the long since forgotten Ragnar Sigurdsson – when injuries separated his first choice central defensive partnership but England's scourge in Euro 2016 didn't possess either the composure or the passing ability he sought. The Serbian considered going back into the transfer market to find the player he was after but afforded the American an opportunity to stake his claim alongside Kalas last January and it was a chance Ream grabbed with both feet.

Where his early Fulham career was characterised by shakiness and the odd mistake that always seemed to turn into an opposition goal, Ream is now reliable and a crowd favourite. His reading of the game is second to none and those artful turns away from a pressing centre forward are far less heart rendering. The 30 year-old's comfort in possession suits a Fulham side that are instructed to play the ball out from the back – and the way that Ream slotted seamlessly into the defence alongside Kalas was one of the key factors in Fulham's terrific late run into the Championship's top six.

It looks as if the Whites are coming into form at just the right time for history to repeat itself – ideally without the semi-final pain this time. Ream has arguably usurped even Kalas as the club's most consistent defender and, in so doing, has become the latest American to forge a special bond with the Fulham faithful. Where the Hammersmith End once sung the names of Carlos Bocanegra, Brian McBride and Clint Dempsey, there's an unmistakable cry now whenever the popular defender is in possession. To the uninitiated, it could sound like booing – but it's actually the home fans saluting 'Reeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaam' as he brings the ball under control.

Ream's been a fans' favourite wherever he's gone throughout his career. That is undoubtedly down to his unquestionable footballing ability but it also about his character. Nobody could fault his ceaseless effort or desire, but the affable American also freely acknowledges how fortunate he is to make a living from the beautiful game and that the fans pay his wages. Fulham and Tim Ream didn't seem like a great fit at the start, but, after his first century, it is now very difficult to imagine life without the Whites' number thirteen.




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