Sunday Fulham Stuff (25/02/18)...

[WhiteJC]

 
Results

Friday
Hull	1 - 0	Sheff Utd
Saturday
Birmingham	0 - 2	Barnsley
Burton	0 - 1	Millwall
Leeds	1 - 0	Brentford
Norwich	0 - 0	Bolton
Preston NE	0 - 1	Ipswich
QPR	2 - 5	Nottm Forest
Reading	3 - 3	Derby
Sheff Wed	2 - 4	Aston Villa
Sunderland	3 - 3	Middlesborough
Fulham	2 - 0	Wolves

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 2-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers

Wolves keeper John Ruddy is helpless as Ryan Sessegnon (right) sweeps in Fulham's opener

Fulham consolidated their place in the Championship play-off places with a dominant victory over leaders Wolves.

The hosts, unbeaten in the league in 2018, began well and led when winger Ryan Sessegnon, 17, tapped in after Aleksandar Mitrovic's shot was parried.

Ivan Cavaleiro twice tested Fulham keeper Marcus Bettinelli but Mitrovic fired in a low second from 20 yards.

Stefan Johansen almost curled in a third before Diogo Jota blazed over Wolves' best chance from close range.

Nuno Espirito Santo's side remain nine points clear of second-placed Cardiff, who play on Sunday, though their buffer to third has been cut to 10 points following Aston Villa's win at Sheffield Wednesday.

The Cottagers are unbeaten in 12 games and have now won eight in a row at Craven Cottage, lifting them to within five points of an automatic promotion spot.

England Under-19 international Sessegnon has 13 goals this season and eight since the turn of the year, while on-loan Newcastle striker Mitrovic has scored in consecutive games, having scored his first for the club in midweek.

Wolves, without suspended midfielder Ruben Neves, managed just two shots on target and have dropped 12 points in their past eight games in all competitions, winning just three of those contests.

In contrast, Slavisa Jokanovic's side have won four consecutive league games without conceding at Craven Cottage for the first time since 1999.



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43093647

[WhiteJC]

 
Head Coach Reaction

Slaviša Jokanović thought his team "played a very good game" to defeat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 on a chilly night at Craven Cottage.

Ryan Sessegnon opened the scoring with an intelligent close-range finish in the 38th minute, and Aleksandar Mitrović doubled the Whites advantage with a sublime solo effort in the 71st.

"I definitely believe this was one of the best games we had at this level," Jokanović said. "My team played a very good game."

The Head Coach was full of praise for how his side set about overcoming the league leaders, given the strength of the away team. "Wolves are a strong, fast team," he noted. "We showed we can play against them. We came through adversity. We were brave, with great attitudes.

"We tried to not give them any space to move and at the end of the day we scored the necessary goals. Besides a good chance for them at the end of the game, we controlled the match—especially in the second half—and we must be satisfied."

While Jokanović was quick to emphasise how good the entire team was, he also singled Mitrović out for special praise. "The whole team played a very good game. But Mitrović opens up different options for us," Jokanović said.

"He scored a goal, he worked in the right direction for the team, and he held the ball up many times. He worked well off the ball too. He must be satisfied with his performance, just like we are satisfied with his performance. "

Still, the Head Coach was insistent on making sure it was the whole squad that was recognised. "I want to underline that it's the whole team that is working well," he said.

When he was asked if he thought the Whites could climb up into one of the top two positions, Jokanović was adamant that he was sticking with his game-by-game approach. "I am only looking at the next game," the Head Coach replied.

"The next game will give us an opportunity to fight for three points. This match will be soon be part of the past, and there will soon be another game, more important than the one today."

Jokanović also was proud of Sessegnon, and praised the teenager's almost telekinetic ability to sniff out a goal. "He has arrived many times at the right moment and in the right position to score a goal," the Head Coach said. "He has a special sense for just where the ball is going to arrive.

"He's showed this ability of his many times. He's a special kid with a special ability."




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/february/24/head-coach-reaction-wolves

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 2-0 Wolves: Starlet Ryan Sessegnon bags 13th goal of the season before on-loan Aleksandar Mitrovic sinks Championship leaders

    Goals from Sessegnon and Mitrovic earned them a well-deserved victory
    The Londoners remain fifth but it was their eighth successive home victory
    Championship leaders Wolves lost for only the second time in 20 matches

Fulham strengthened their growing play-off credentials after stunning runaway leaders Wolves 2-0 at Craven Cottage.

Goals from Ryan Sessegnon and Aleksandar Mitrovic put the London club seven points clear of 7th place, and with two of the four teams above them in the table dropping points on Saturday, even a direct return to the top flight remains a distinct possibility for the Cottagers.

It was fitting that such an exciting, end-to-end encounter was influenced so heavily by the liveliest player involved in the game.


Goals from Ryan Sessegnon and Aleksandar Mitrovic earned Fulham a well-deserved victory


Fulham went ahead after John Ruddy parried Mitrovic's shot into the path of Sessegnon


Teenager Sessegnon took his season's tally to 13 goals with his strike against Wolves

The 17-year-old looks a Premier League player, and whether it's in a Fulham shirt or not, his pace and relentless running would cause many a top-flight defender trouble.

His close-range winner on 38 minutes came after Mitrovic's shot was parried into his path by Wolves goalkeeper John Ruddy. He was the first to react and from two yards out and with the goal gaping, the youngster couldn't miss.

The warning signs were there for Wolves from very early in the first half. Mitrovic had lifted the ball over a helpless Ruddy in the Wolves goal and, just as the Fulham fans rose as one to celebrate, captain Conor Coady arrived in the nick of time to hook the ball off the line.

Wolves' response was what you would expect of champions-elect. Their dynamic front three combined beautifully to almost give them the lead. Leo Bonatini drew Fulham's defenders to the edge of the box, teed-up Helder Costa who flicked the ball on brilliantly into Ivan Cavaleiro who hit the bar the with outside of his boot.

However, as the first half went on Fulham found a foothold and it culminated in Sessegnon's strike after some smart work down the right from Mitrovic.

The break did nothing to lift Wolves and it remained Fulham who looked like the team flying high at the top of the division. With 20 minutes to go Mitrovic, who everything Fulham did seemed to be going through, beat three men on the edge of the Wolves box and fired an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner.


Mitrovic beat two defenders before driving a low 20-yard shot past Ruddy in 71st minute

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo sent on Benik Afobe and Diogo Jota in a bid to wrestle the initiative off the home side and the two substitutes almost combined to stunning effect. Afobe worked the ball into the Fulham box and cut the ball back to the arriving Jota, but the Portuguese fired over from six yards to the disbelief of the away end.

It was Wolves' best chance to score all game and with that the chance of an unlikely comeback was gone and they recorded only their second defeat in the league since October.

For Fulham, this was a massive win and strengthens their hopes of a return to the big time for the first time since 2014.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5430907/Fulham-2-0-Wolves-Sessegnon-Mitrovic-sink-leaders.html#ixzz586bBhyzd
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham boost promotion hopes by beating leaders Wolves

Fulham 2 Wolves 0

Ryan Sessegnon and Aleksander Mitrovic scored as Fulham massively boosted their promotion hopes by beating the Championship leaders.

Sessegnon tapped the opener into an empty net shortly before half-time for his 13th goal of the season, after Mitrovic's shot was parried into his path by keeper John Ruddy.

The Newcastle loanee then smashed home the second from the edge of the box on 72 minutes, having brilliantly turned and shrugged off two defenders.

Wolves had been a threat on the break and substitute Diogo Jota missed an open goal at the death, but the Whites were excellent and extended their unbeaten run to 12 Championship games.

Wolves, who remain nine points ahead of Cardiff at the top, had not lost since January and were handed only their fifth league defeat of the campaign.

Mitrovic had Fulham's best chance before Sessegnon's opener on 38 minutes when Tom Cairney's blocked shot drifted into his path and he lobbed Ruddy, only to see his effort cleared off the line by Conor Coady.

Ruddy could not hold onto Mitrovic's low, hard shot that allowed Sessegnon to score, after Wolves' Helder Costa had been their brightest spark with two goal-bound shots blocked inside the box.

Mitrovic did brilliantly when he received a pass from Tom Cairney with his back to goal, turning his marker and wriggling free of another defender to make sure of victory on 71 minutes.

And the Whites twice went close to a third, with a fine curling effort from Stefan Johansen just missing past the far post before Matt Targett shot wide in stoppage time.

Fulham (4-3-3): Bettinelli; Fredericks, Kalas, Ream, Targett; McDonald, Johansen, Cairney (Odoi 90); Ayite (Ojo 63), Mitrovic, Sessegnon.
Subs not used: Button, Fonte, Norwood, Christie, Kamara.



http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-boost-promotion-hopes-beating-leaders-wolves

[WhiteJC]

 
Result: Championship leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers suffer defeat at Fulham

Fulham have registered their eighth successive home win with a 2-0 victory over Championship leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers in Saturday's clash at Craven Cottage.

Ryan Sessegnon gave the home side the lead during the closing stages of the first half before Aleksandar Mitrovic's second goal since his loan move from Newcastle United confirmed victory for Slavisa Jokanovic's side.

Wolves remain nine points clear of Cardiff City - who face Bristol City on Sunday - while Fulham now sit just a point behind fourth-placed Derby County in the table.

Both teams started relatively brightly in West London but it was Fulham who created the first opportunity with Mitrovic flicking the ball over the head of John Ruddy before Conor Coady got back to make the clearance.

Moments later, Floyd Ayite dragged a shot wide of the near post from distance, before Wolves got their first real effort on goal when Alfred N'Diaye fired just over from 25 yards.

As the first half progressed, however, it was all Fulham and the home side finally went in front with seven minutes remaining when Sessegnon tapped home from close range after Ruddy had made a save down to his right to deny Mitrovic.

Wolves almost netted an immediate equaliser through Ivan Cavaleiro, who saw his 25-yard strike kept out by Marcus Bettinelli down to his left, but the visitors were fortunate to survive Ruddy spilling Matt Targett's low effort before claiming at the second opportunity.

The opening minutes after the restart belonged to Wolves with Cavaleiro seeing Bettinelli make another stop to deny the Portuguese from distance, but the visitors were still struggling to anything of note in the final third.

Fulham were also failing to apply constant pressure to the Wolves goal but there was a feeling that the Cottagers were in full control of the contest as long as Wolves continued to make the wrong decisions in the final third.

Jokanovic's side eventually doubled their advantage with 19 minutes remaining. Mitrovic comfortably held off Coady on the edge of the area before managing to find the bottom corner of Ruddy's net from 20 yards out.

Fulham appeared to be coasting through to the full-time whistle but Wolves should have halved the deficit with five minutes left when Benik Afobe rolled the ball to Diogo Jota to convert from 10 yards, but the Atletico Madrid loanee fired over in front of an empty net.

That proved to be Wolves' final chance and Nuno Espirito Santo will be grateful for a free midweek in order to prepare his side for fixtures with Reading, Leeds United and Aston Villa at the start of March.

FULHAM XI: Bettinelli; Fredericks, Kalas, Ream, Targett; McDonald, Johansen, Cairney (Odoi 92'); Ayite (Ojo 64'), Sessegnon, Mitrovic

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS XI: Ruddy; Bennett, Coady, Boly; Doherty, Saiss (Afobe 77'), N'Diaye (Gibbs-White 63'), Douglas; Cavaleiro, Costa (Jota 63'), Bonatini



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/wolves/result/result-leaders-wolves-suffer-defeat-at-fulham_319471.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 2-0 Wolves PLAYER RATINGS: Sessegnon and Mitrovic slay the league leaders

Fulham toppled the league leaders under the Sky cameras to make it 12 games unbeaten

Another Ryan Sessegnon strike and a wonderful Aleksandar Mitrovic goal ensured Fulham beat league leaders Wolves 2-0 to stretch that unbeaten run to 12.

Slavisa Jokanovic decided to make three changes for the visit of the league leaders, with Floyd Ayite, Tomas Kalas and Ryan Fredericks all returning to the starting XI - the same side that beat Aston Villa last week.

The home side started well and nearly had the opener - Aleksander Mitrovic's lob after the ball fell into his path was hacked off the line however.

And it was Fulham who took the lead when Mitrovic's effort was parried into the path of Sessegnon, who was in the right place at the right time to poke it home.

Mitrovic, who had been a pain for Wolves' defence all night, got the second when he turned his man and slammed the ball into the bottom left corner.

Wolves should've got one back when Marcus Bettinelli saved from Benik Afobe, he squared the rebound to Diogo Jota who was only yards out, but he scooped the ball over the bar.

Here's how we rated the side:

Bettinelli 7: A few skewed kicks but some decent saves to keep Wolves at bay. Did what he had to do fairly well when called upon. Great save to deny Afobe.

Fredericks 8: Got the better of his man a few times down the right and did well defensively. Was fantastic in the second 45.

Kalas 7: Was a commanding display at centre back in the first half. Worked well to get back into positions to defend as Wolves broke.

Ream 9: Was absolutely solid at the back in the first 45 minutes and for the remainder of the game. Did a great job nullifying the Wolves front line.

Targett 7: Another solid display from the left back who did his job and without complaint in this game.

McDonald 8: Did well shielding and dropping into the back four, mopping up quick Wolves breaks. Another solid screening display from the Scotsman.

Cairney 8: Had eyes in the back of his head at times to deal with pressure in the midfield. Grew into the game and started to dictate play during the second half.

Johansen 8: Looked back to his best with a fantastic effort in the midfield as the engine. Linked defence to attack a number of times.

Ayite 7: Didn't have much to do in the first half but came into the game more during the second. Tracked back well and did a good job defending the right as Wolves doubled up.

Sessegnon 7: Right place, right time for the youngster as he scored the opener. Looked to attack his marker at every opportunity.

Mitrovic 9: Held the ball up well and did some fantastic work to get a shot off for the first goal. Stunning second goal when he created space for himself and slammed the ball home.

Subs -

Ojo 7: A good impact on the game, the former Wolves man added width to the right and did a good job defending with Fredericks.

Odoi N/A: Didn't get enough time on the pitch.



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/fulham-2-0-wolves-player-14332606

[WhiteJC]

 
Wolves Defeated At The Cottage

Fulham 2 (Sessegnon 38, Mitrovic 71) Wolves 0

Wolves lost on the road in the Championship for the first time since October, as a goal in each half earned Fulham all three points at Craven Cottage.

Nuno's side weren't at their best and were made to pay when Ryan Sessegnon turned into an open net, chasing in after an impressive stop by John Ruddy.

The Cottagers had their second when Aleksandar Mitrovic fired home from range, condemning the visitors to a rare defeat away from Molineux.

Substitute, Diogo Jota should have set up a grandstand finish at Craven Cottage, but missed with the goal gaping five minutes from time to compound Wolves' evening in the capital.

An electric atmosphere had welcomed the two sides onto Craven Cottage and the noise levels buoyed Wolves, who should have done better with two great openings for Helder Costa, who'd raced clear but failed to pick out a Wolves shirt.

The hosts were up for it too and almost took the lead when Mitrovic clipped an effort over Ruddy, only to watch Conor Coady hook off the line, before Floyd Ayite dragged a shot comfortably wide of the mark.

Wolves were finding plenty of space between Fulham's midfield and defence, and once the returning Leo Bonatini created an opening, they should have done better, but Ivan Cavaleiro had strayed offside before firing Costa's pass into the side netting.

Nuno's side were growing into the game midway through the first-half and Alfred N'Diaye, who had two goals in his previous three games, fired a dipping effort just over Marcus Bettinelli's goal.

At the other end, Matt Targett's strike deflected nicely into Ruddy's arms, however the hosts would take the lead soon after. Both N'Diaye and Ryan Bennett surrendered possession cheaply and, once Ruddy had denied Mitrovic brilliantly with a low save, Sessegnon was quickest to react, tapping into an unguarded net.

The Cottagers were in the ascendency and Ruddy needed two attempts to smother Targett's effort following a short corner. Then, with the final attempt of the half, Stefan Johansen flashed a free-kick wide.

Half-Time: Fulham 1 Wolves 0

Nuno's half-time words had the desired effect at Craven Cottage and Wolves started the second-half well, with Cavaleiro's cross being spilt by Bettinelli and Costa blazing the rebound of the bar.

However, despite huffing and puffing, Wolves never looked like equalising, so Nuno shuffled his pack, bringing on Jota and Morgan Gibbs-White for Costa and N'Diaye.

It was Fulham who rallied after that however, and after outmuscling Coady, Mitrovic found the smallest of gaps and fired in at Ruddy's near post.

The hosts were flying and Johansen's whipped effort flew inches wide of Ruddy's goal, then after going down with an injury, Romain Saiss left the pitch for Benik Afobe, with Coady stepping into the midfield.

It wasn't over in terms of goalmouth action however, and Wolves should have given themselves a fighting chance with five minutes remaining. Coady set Afobe free and after the striker failed to find the back of the net, he played in Jota, who fired over with an open goal at his mercy.

That miss would be the final chance Wolves had of setting up a dramatic finish and they were beaten on the road in the Championship for the first time since a 2-1 reverse at QPR in the autumn.

Full-Time: Fulham 2 Wolves 0

Fulham: Bettinelli, Fredericks, Sessegnon, McDonald, Johnansen, Cairney © (Odoi 90), Ayite (Ojo 64), Read, Targett, Kalas, Mitrovic.

Unused Subs: Button, Norwood, Fonte, Christie, Kamara.

Booked: Targett (48)

Wolves: Ruddy, Doherty, Bennett, Coady ©, Boly, Douglas, Saiss (Afobe 77), N'Diaye (Gibbs-White 63), Cavaleiro, Costa (Jota 63), Bonatini.

Unused Subs: Norris, Batth, Miranda, Hause.

Booked: Douglas (68), Boly (75)

Referee: Peter Banks

Attendance: 23,510



https://www.wolves.co.uk/news/first-team/20180224-wolves-defeated-at-the-cottage/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 2-0 Wolves: Slavisa Jokanovic's men shock Championship leaders

Fulham sent out a real statement of intent in the Sky Bet Championship promotion race as they ran out 2-0 winners over leaders Wolves at Craven Cottage.

After a confident start, Whites' top scorer Ryan Sessegnon opened the scoring with his 13th of the season, reacting quickest after John Ruddy had spilled Aleksandar Mitrovic's shot.

And though Nuno Espirito Santo's men improved after the break, Mitrovic held off Conor Coady to fire home a low effort and double the hosts' lead and secure a valuable three points.

Neither side move in the Championship standings, though Wolves' lead can be cut to six points on Sunday afternoon should Cardiff beat fellow promotion-hopefuls Bristol City.

Player ratings

Fulham: Bettinelli (6), Fredericks (7), Kalas (7), Ream (7), Targett (6), McDonald (7), Johansen (7), Cairney (7), Ayite (6), Mitrovic (8), Sessegnon (8)

Subs: Ojo (5), Odoi (n/a)

Wolves: Ruddy (5), Boly (6), Coady (5), Bennett (6), Doherty (6), Douglas (5), Saiss (5), N'Diaye (6), Cavaleiro (6), Costa (6), Bonatini (5)

Subs: Jota (4), Afobe (5), Gibbs-White (4)

Man of the match: Aleksandar Mitrovic

With a streak of seven successive home wins under their belt, Fulham looked relaxed and confident in the early stages as they dominated possession and registered the game's first chance when Floyd Ayite dragged a shot wide from 12 yards.

Chances came at a premium, particularly with Wolves missing the creative influence of the suspended Ruben Neves, but the visitors looked to have weathered the early storm created by their opponents and they were denied by the offside flag on numerous occasions.

But seven minutes before the break, Fulham took the lead - and it was only ever going to be one player. Mitrovic hit a low shot, but Ruddy could only palm the ball to his right, where Sessegnon was on hand to slot into the unguarded net.

Nuno's men started strongly in the second half as they looked to claw themselves back into the game and Diogo Jota was introduced just past the hour mark, but Fulham were not keen to rest on their laurels.

Team news

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic made three changes from the team that drew 1-1 with Bristol City on Wednesday evening, with Ryan Fredericks, Tomas Kalas and Floyd Ayite all brought into the starting lineup.

Nuno, meanwhile, replaced influential pair Ruben Neves - suspended after picking up his 10th yellow card of the season against Norwich in midweek - and Diogo Jota with Romain Saiss and Leo Bonatini.

They fended off intense pressure from the visitors at times, but doubled their lead when January loan signing Mitrovic used his physicality to hold off Coady and fire past Ruddy at the near post from just outside the area - his second in two games.

Wolves almost pulled one back with four minutes to play, but Benik Afobe's attack was brought to a swift conclusion by Tim Ream, before Jota struck the rebound over the bar.

Man of the match - Aleksandar Mitrovic

The Serbian frontman showed just how much of an asset he will be in the Whites' promotion quest over the next few months, playing a key role in the first goal, before scoring the second himself.

The 23-year-old adds a physical element that may prove important with a fixture list that includes Derby, Sheffield United and Preston.

The managers

Slavisa Jokanovic: "I definitely believe this was one of the best games we had at this level. My team played a very good game. Wolves are a strong, fast team. We showed we can play against them. We came through adversity. We were brave, with great attitudes.

"We tried to not give them any space to move and at the end of the day we scored the necessary goals. Besides a good chance for them at the end of the game, we controlled the match-especially in the second half-and we must be satisfied."

Nuno Espirito Santo: "They were the better team and we struggled to go out and get possession, it's the reality of football and we keep on going. The focus is exactly the same, but we must do better than today. First-half I think was good, well played by both teams, both teams were organised and creating good football and chances on goal.

"The goal puts them in the best moment and shook us a little bit, then the second-half we started better but Fulham gained control. We created a lot of options to finish our actions, but they were not finished. The last pass or cross which gives you control of the game, we must improve because we have to be clinical.

"Today, Fulham deserved it. They have good momentum and are a good team."

What's next?

Fulham face another test next weekend when they travel to Pride Park to take on Gary Rowett's Derby, while Wolves host struggling Reading on Saturday evening, live on Sky Sports Football.



http://www.skysports.com/football/fulham-vs-wolves/375018

[WhiteJC]

 
Superb Aleksandar Mitrovic goal helps topple leaders – Makes it two in two

Aleksandar Mitrovic back on top form, his excellent goal helps bring down leaders Wolves.

Aleksandar Mitrovic is certainly hitting his stride now.

Rafa Benitez had refused to select the striker for a league match in nine months, so it had become an impossible situation for the Serbian striker.

A loan move to Fulham was agreed for the rest of the season and he is really reaping the benefits as he nears full fitness.

Mitrovic lasted the full game this Saturday teatime but his contribution overall was excellent.

Scoring in a 1-1 midweek draw at Bristol City, that followed an excellent display in the 2-0 win over in-form Aston Villa.

However, it was definitely cherry on top of the cake today, as a win over Wolves, who until recently had looked as though they were running away with the Championship, puts Fulham only five points off the automatic promotion places and seven points clear in terms of the play-off places.

Ryan Sessegnon put Fulham ahead today, then a superb Aleksandar Mitrovic goal (see below) made the game safe.

BBC Sport:

'An eighth-straight home win is very much on the cards for Fulham now.

Aleksandar Mitrovic has plenty to do when he receives the ball but he shows great strength to hold off and escape the clutches of Conor Coady.

Before drilling a low shot from 20 yards past the despairing dive of John Ruddy.'



https://www.themag.co.uk/2018/02/superb-aleksandar-mitrovic-goal-helps-topple-leaders-makes-two-two-fulham-newcastle-united/

[WhiteJC]

There's only one Bobby Moore
by Sarah on February 24, 2018

Like so many people I've met, my Dad is the reason I'm a Fulham fan. He took me to Craven Cottage when I was two, apparently, after the vociferous protests of my mother, who felt football wasn't a place for a little girl. I think he had hoped he'd have a boy enjoy walking along Stevenage Road on a Saturday afternoon with – but neither me or my sister were able to oblige him – and he was genuinely surprised when I loved it just as much as he did.

When I was about six and had started playing football at school, he took me to Wembley for the first time. I remember staring at the old arch in awe before he nudged him as a smartly dressed man walked past. Dad explained, as the man was smiling and shaking hands with people who came up to great him that the friendly gentleman was England's greatest ever defender. I think I must have given him a quizzical look because he also told me that he captained England when they won the World Cup and he played for Fulham. 'That's our team,' I said. My Dad smiled.

Until my Dad died, it was a little family tradition that we would watch England at least once a year. A few years later, we had great seats for a game against San Marino – presumably because nobody else was that excited by the opposition – and, now having started high school, I had a bit more confidence when we bumped into Bobby Moore again by chance just as he was preparing to commentate on the match. I told him I was a Fulham fan and that my Dad said he was the best defender he'd ever seen. He laughed. 'I'm not sure he's telling you the truth,' and signed my autograph book. That turned out to be Moore's last public appearance, as he died a week later – 25 years ago today – after a brave battle against cancer. When I realised the date today, I fished out my old autograph book and found the inscription, 'To Sarah, Well done on supporting Fulham. Best wishes, Bobby Moore'. It is all the more poignant now as my father also was taken too soon by bowel cancer, the disease that Stephanie Moore launched such a public campaign about after Bobby's death.

I was obviously far too young to appreciate just how great Bobby Moore was, but I remember thinking he was a very friendly man. My Dad scolded me on the way back to our seats for interrupting Mr. Moore 'whilst he was working'. He then told me of his joy of leaving work to find out that Moore had signed for Fulham, having been let go by West Ham. He told his mates at the pub – and they all thought good old Tony had been taken in by a prankster or something, until they read the next day's newspaper. It was no coincidence that the Whites reached Wembley during Moore's first season in the team, where of course they were beaten by his old club in the 1975 FA Cup final.

When you read the two excellent biographies, one written a while ago by Jeff Powell and a more recent but superb volume from Matt Dickinson, you realise how badly Moore was treated by the English footballing authorities after he retired. I've been fortunate enough to meet some of the people he played with and watched countless videos of him action, being far too young to have seen him myself – and have seen or heard nothing to dissuade me from my father's admittedly impressionable view. It seems a terrible waste that he died in Putney contributing to radio commentaries alongside his good friend Jonathan Pearce in the final years of his illustrious life as a way of giving something back to the game he loved.

I spent far too long browsing on the Fulham website this morning, looking at the photos of Moore's time at Craven Cottage, which is usually relegated to something of a footnote after those famous years with the Hammers in the retelling of his extraordinary career. There's an excellent feature with Les Strong recounting the experience of playing alongside Moore, which seems the most magnificent privilege. Apparently, there's more in the programme for today's game against Wolves, which makes it a must purchase for me.

My Dad wasn't given to much hero worship. He was a simple man of few words, who spent most of his working life driving buses, which is probably why his praise for Moore has always stuck with me. I played centre back at school, for a local girls' team and at university, and that meant I was subjected to many sermons on the art of defending. I'd always have questions and eventually my poor Dad shrugged his shoulders and made me watch videos of Moore. I can hear him now: 'Look how much time he has. How easy it is. And he could pass. You must be able to anticipate, Sarah. You can see it all from defence'. I must have looked a right idiot to emulate Moore's composure on the football field.

In today's game, I'm sure Moore would be worth millions. From everything I've read, he was one of the game's best defenders. I'm sure he would have been at home in Slavisa Jokanovic's defence, with his reading of the game and extraordinary range of passing for a centre half. I'm pleased to have met Bobby Moore, even if it was for a few fleeting seconds. He's a part of Fulham's fine history. He was wasn't just my father's hero, he was a whole country's. There's only one Bobby Moore.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/02/theres-only-one-bobby-moore/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 2-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers: Ryan Sessegnon scores again as Londoners consolidate play-off places


Sessegnon celebrates scoring for Fulham

Fulham underlined their promotion credentials as goals from Ryan Sessegnon and Aleksandar Mitrovic earned them a well-deserved 2-0 victory over Sky Bet Championship leaders Wolves.

The Londoners remain fifth but it was their eighth successive home victory in the league, with clean sheets in the last four, and extends their unbeaten run to 12 matches. It was also their first victory over Wolves in 10 attempts.

The visitors lost for only the second time in 20 league matches and remain nine points clear at the top of the table ahead of second-placed Cardiff's game with Bristol City on Sunday.

But they are winless in three games for the first time this season and have dropped 12 points in their last eight league games, five more than in their previous 16.

Wolves started well. Helder Costa broke away down the right after five minutes but shot too high, and then just failed to test Fulham goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli after another break.

But before long the pattern of the first half was set as Fulham began to take control with a series of fast-paced and intricate attacks.

They nearly broke through after 13 minutes when Tom Cairney's shot ricocheted to Mitrovic. He lifted the ball over goalkeeper John Ruddy but Wolves captain Conor Coady managed to hook it clear.

After 24 minutes Coady won possession and set up Alfred N'Diaye for a powerful shot from 25 yards that dipped just over Bettinelli's crossbar.

However, Ryan Bennett's poor clearance was cut out by Stefan Johansen, who found Mitrovic in a yard of space on the edge of the penalty area.

The Newcastle loanee's shot on the turn sent Ruddy sprawling to his right, but he could do no more than parry the ball and Sessegnon pounced to tap in his 13th goal of the season.

Bettinelli did much better with his first save of the second half, scooping away a dipping shot from Ivan Cavaleiro in the 50th minute, even though Leo Bonatini had run across his line of vision.

But Fulham were soon back into their passing rhythm, although their second goal in the 71st minute owed less to possession football than the strength and determination of Mitrovic.

He received the ball with his back to goal 30 yards out, turned past Coady and side-stepped Morgan Gibbs-White before driving a low 20-yard shot between Ruddy and his near post.

Johansen could have made it 3-0 seconds later but his first-time shot from 20 yards faded just wide of the upright.

Wolves missed a simple chance to halve the arrears late on when Benik Afobe set up what seemed to be an unmissable opening for fellow substitute Diogo Jota, but he chipped the ball over an open goal.



Read more at https://talksport.com/football/fulham-2-0-wolverhampton-wanderers-ryan-sessegnon-scores-again-londoners-consolidate-play#P6ds5BR7eOJpchHu.99

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 2 Wolves 0 – Report and pictures

Wolves were well beaten at Fulham as goals from Ryan Sessegnon and Aleksandar Mitrovic earned the home side a 2-0 win.


Wolves lost 2-0 at Craven Cottage (AMA SPORTS PHOTO AGENCY)

Sessegnon fired home shortly before half time after Mitrovic's shot was saved and the Newcastle loanee doubled the lead in the second half with a 20-yard shot.

Off-colour Wolves spurned a huge chance with five minutes left when Jota ballooned over.

But they created little of note in a defeat which means they've earned just two points from three matches.

Analysis

If Wednesday was a minor blip, then this latest Wolves setback felt far more meaningful.

It wasn't so much the result – only Wolves' fifth defeat of the season – that raised a few concerns, writes Tim Spiers at Craven Cottage.

After all, Fulham are the division's form team and currently enjoying the kind of momentum that managers dream of.

No, it was the limp performance Wolves offered that will raise a few alarm bells among their supporters.

They were well beaten and outfought. They committed sloppy defensive errors, they won desperately few second balls and created next to no clear-cut chances.

It was arguably their most subdued performance of the season and came at an important moment. Nuno will have demanded a reaction from his players after the late setback against Norwich but he just didn't get it.

It needed to be Wolves that set the tone early on. Instead it was Fulham. It needed to be Wolves that made a statement with a big win against a promotion contender. Instead it was Fulham.

The time to panic is not now. In fact this is a time for cool heads, for remembering what Wolves have done so, so well during the course of the season and, also, a time for looking at the league table, which shows that their lead to third place is 10 points.

They have more than enough in their locker to address this form immediately. But address it they must.

Match report

Nuno made two changes to his XI and surprisingly dropped Diogo Jota for the first time this season, with Leo Bonatini coming into the team. As expected Romain Saiss replaced the suspended Ruben Neves.

Fulham, who came into the game on the back of winning eight and drawing three of their previous 11 matches, had former Wolves man Kevin McDonald in their midfield, while dangerman Ryan Sessegnon started on the left wing.

The Cottagers' form has been even better than Wolves' of late and it soon showed. The confident hosts took the game to Nuno's team, making life uncomfortable for them from the off with a high tempo, intense pressing and plenty of tough tackles.

It was a frantic, end to end start to the match – the kind of game Nuno doesn't tend to appreciate, given his penchant for control and composure.

Fulham were soon on top with Coady making a number of important blocks and interceptions, particularly when clearing off the line after Aleksandar Mitrovic had lifted the ball over John Ruddy.

Floyd Ayite also fired just wide and Fulham kept Wolves on the back foot with a series of dangerous crosses and corners.

It was no surprise that the hosts went in 1-0 up at the break – but the manner of the goal was certainly surprising from a Wolves point of view as it was arguably the sloppiest they've conceded all season.

A poor Bennett clearance saw Fulham work the ball to Mitrovic who span Coady and fired low – Ruddy parried the ball but it went straight to Sessegnon who fired in from close range.

It was by no means one-way traffic in the first half. Wolves created a few half chances such as an Alfred N'Diaye piledriver which whistled over, a decent effort from Ivan Cavaleiro which Marcus Bettinelli had to save and a couple of promising moments involving Costa which petered out.

But in general they were second best and sorely lacking the composure of Neves in midfield.

Aside from a Cavaleiro shot which Bettinelli parried it was a quiet start to the second half and Nuno made his move on 63 minutes, with Jota and Morgan Gibbs-White replaced Costa and N'Diaye.

However the changes made little impact. Wolves rarely threatened the Fulham goal, with a woeful Saiss effort their only shot between minutes 50 and 85.

In the meantime Fulham doubled their lead when Mitrovic beat Coady again and drove low and true from 20 yards, beating Ruddy at his near post.

Johansen then curled one inches wide as Fulham threatened to run away with it.

Afobe replaced Saiss as Nuno went four at the back with Coady moving into midfield for the first time this season.

And it was Coady whose pass helped create the golden chance that Wolves were looking for...but they somehow spurned it. Coady released Afobe whose shot was blocked – it came back to him and he teed up Jota who ballooned his shot over the bar when it was easier to score.

That summed up Wolves' day and there was to be no late comeback.

Key moments

13 – The ball breaks for Mitrovic who lifts the ball over Ruddy and Coady clears just ahead of the goal line.

38 – GOAL – Bennett misplaces his clearance, Mitrovic spins Coady and fires low at goal – Ruddy parries into the path of RYAN SESSEGNON who can't miss.

71 – GOAL – ALEKSANDAR MITROVIC drives one from 20 yards and beats Ruddy.

85 – Afobe races through on goal, his shot is blocked but then he tees up Jota who somehow balloons over with the goal gaping from just eight yards.

Teams

Fulham (4-3-3): Bettinelli; Fredericks; Kalas, Ream, Targett; Johansen, McDonald, Cairney (c); Ayite (Ojo, 64), Mitrovic, Sessegnon. Subs: Button, Odoi, Fonte, Norwood, Christie, Kamara.

Goals: Sessegnon (38), Mitrovic (71)

Wolves (3-4-3): John Ruddy; Bennett, Coady (c), Boly; Doherty, N'Diaye (Gibbs-White, 63), Saiss (Afobe, 76), Douglas; Costa (Jota, 63), Bonatini, Cavaleiro. Subs: Norris, Batth, Miranda, Hause.

Goals: sdf

Attendance: 23,510

Referee: P Bankes
League position

1st (73 points from 34 matches)



Read more at https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/football/wolverhampton-wanderers-fc/2018/02/24/fulham-2-wolves-0--report/#Y2TeTcbF6GF1FGS6.99

[WhiteJC]

 
Everything Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic said in his post Wolves press conference

Here's what the head coach had to say after the 2-0 victory over Wolves this evening

ulham beat league leaders Wolves 2-0 at the Cottage this evening, here's everything Slavisa Jokanovic had to say in his post match press conference.

How well did the side play today?

"My team played very good game, definitely I believe this can be one of the best games we have found in this level.

"They are strong, electric fast team and we show we can play against them.

"We showed aggressiveness, we were brave with great substitutes, we try and not to give them so much space for win more.

"At the end of the day, we score the goals, they had one good chance at the end of the game and we controlled, especially second half, the situation and we must be satisfied."

Mitrovic had a good game

"All the team had a good game.

"We played without him well, but with Mitrovic now he opens different options and he scored the goal and pulled in right direction for the team and moved many times.

"He's working off the ball too, and at the end he must be satisfied with the performance and we are satisfied with his performance and in general this team is working well."

Looking at second place?

"I am looking for next game, next game we are going to have another opportunity to fight for three points and this will be soon part of the history and there will be another more important game.

"Where we are going to finish I cannot answer right now."

Another goal for Sessegnon

"He has many times arrived in the right moment at the right position to score the goal.

"He have some, I don't know how to call it, some sense for where the ball will arrive and today he showed this ability again."

Is that taught or natural?

"We try working with him, at the end it's something coming from the factory too and at the end he's a special kid with special ability too."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/everything-fulham-boss-slavisa-jokanovic-14333728

[WhiteJC]

 
Manchester United boost as 17-year-old wonderkid could be available this summer

Manchester United have been put on alert with Fulham winger Ryan Sessegnon being tipped to leave the London club at the end of the season. The 17-year-old, who has lit up the Championship with 12 goals in 32 games, has been linked with United, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.

Former Fulham striker-turned pundit Leroy Rosenior believes a deal has already been agreed for Sessegnon, who will ply his trade elsewhere ahead of the 2018/19 season. Spurs are favourites but Rosenior hints at a bidding war ensuing.

"I think that a deal has been done for Ryan as teams have been in for him," he said on James Richardson's Totally Football Show. "It's a Premier League side with strong rumours of Tottenham. I wouldn't be surprised if other sides have been in for him as well.

"He's stays at Fulham before moving in the summer. His future is already mapped out. Ryan has great potential. He is one of those players who you think he's not a left-back and not a left-winger. He could be an amazing player."

Sessegnon has been a regular for Fulham this season, having risen through the ranks of the youth side. The 17-year-old has also represented the England national team at u19 level, making 14 appearances, scoring four goals. He looks to have a bright future and could be in the Premier League in the coming months.

Manchester United are in the market for a left-back, a position the Fulham wonderkid can operate in, but he won't come cheap given the interest from other Premier League sides. Sessegnon is proficient in the final third and combative defensively.

He creates chances and drives from deep and could be perfect for the Red Devils. The teenager's future could be resolve in the coming months.



http://www.thefaithfulmufc.com/manchester-united-boost-as-17-year-old-wonderkid-could-be-available-this-summer/

[WhiteJC]

 
2 players who could leave Fulham in the summer including this midfielder under contract until 2020

Two Players Who Could Leave Fulham In The Summer

Fulham may yet be a Premier League side next season, their attacking flair and genuine skill levels marking them out as one of the better teams in this league.

Despite this, they are still not in an automatic promotion position because of their continued poor starts to seasons and they'd better hope they go up or surely they will not keep hanging onto the likes of Ryan Sessegnon and Tom Cairney.

Regardless of what division they are in, the below two players have not performed up to expectations and are bound to be allowed to leave this summer:

Rui Fonte

The Portuguese striker was signed supposedly to alleviate Fulham's continued No.9 problems for a large fee but has been poor almost every time he's performed.

Fonte was even moved to a wider position at one point which clearly didn't suit him and although some of this could be attributed to his settling into new surroundings, Fulham cannot take a chance on how long it will take for him to reach his peak.

With this in mind, Fonte may be sold on after just one season given that he came with a good reputation from Portugal and at 27 years old will still be an attractive proposition for some clubs, especially on the Iberian Peninsula.

Ibrahima Cisse

The defensive midfielder was brought in only last summer from Standard Liege for just over £2million and at 23 he, in theory, has plenty of potential yet.

It was a surprise at the time, though his arrival should have been a major sign that Slavisa Jokanovic indeed planned to change to a 4-3-3 which did not suit Fulham and was the major reason they underperformed in the first half of the campaign.

Having seen sense and gone back to a 4-2-3-1 with Stefan Johansen and Kevin McDonald, among others back in their rightful positions, Cisse is less needed given that as well as the aforementioned two, the Londoners have better performers such as Oliver Norwood and even Tayo Edun at their disposal.

Cisse can't use injuries as an excuse and I know he's young, but underperforming and being under contract until at least 2020 means Fulham will probably decide to market him from May onwards to clubs in Europe and maybe in a decent position to get a reasonable fee for Cisse.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/02/25/2-players-who-could-leave-fulham-in-the-summer-including-this-midfielder-under-contract-until-2020/

[WhiteJC]

Sessegnon and Mitrovic slay Wolves
by Dan on February 24, 2018

Such was the quality on show during Fulham's eighth straight home league success that an unitiated observer might have picked Slavisa Jokanovic's side as the runaway leaders of the Championship. Barring a brief spell before Ryan Sessegnon's opener where they stroked the ball around Craven Cottage sublimely, Wolves were a pale imitation of the team that has swept away all-comers this season and looked bedraggled long before their first away defeat in four months was confirmed.

The imposing Aleksandar Mitrovic proved the difference between the buoyant hosts, who haven't given up hope of claiming the second automatic promotion spot behind Wolves and Nuno Espirito Santo's strangely subdued side. The Serbian striker personified Fulham's fierce intensity when he turned Conor Coady inside out before firing a low shot between John Ruddy and his near post to double the hosts' lead with twenty minutes to play. Mitrovic, eager to prove a point to Rafa Benitez and his national coach with a World Cup on the horizon, played a pivotal part in Fulham's first as well. After Alfred N'Diaye carelessly squandered possession on the edge of his own box, the on-loan Newcastle forward fired a venomous shot that Ruddy did superbly to parry, before Sessegnon snaffled up the rebound.

Mitrovic – reunited with Jokanovic, his early Partizan Belgrade mentor – was in the mood from the off. He almost opened the scoring with a delicious dink over Ruddy, only for Coady to clear off the line. His desire, which didn't chime with Benitez in the north east, seemed to rub off on his team-mates. Floyd Ayite and Ryan Fredericks found plenty of space down the right and the former fired wide as Fulham maintained a ferocious tempo long after the early exchanges.

Wolves took a while to hit their stride – but the visitors had their best spell of what was eventually an uneven contest in the ten minutes before they went behind. Leo Bonantini burst clear after Fulham had overcommitted in attack but Ivan Cavaleiro's eagerness got the better of him and an offside flag rendered his rippling of the side netting academic. N'Diaye's dipping 30-yarder briefly worried Marcus Bettinelli before clearing the crossbar whilst Helder Costa couldn't find the finish to match a couple of dangerous dribbles.

The Championship's pacesetters appeared early for the second half, presumably with a Portuguese tongue-lashing lingering in their eyes. They penned Fulham back early on but only extended Bettinelli once when the Fulham goalkeeper clawed away a shot from Cavaleiro and Costa spooned the rebound over the crossbar. Nuno threw on Diego Jota and Morgan Gibbs-White to try and enliven his charges but Wolves sorely missed the suspended Reuben Neuves in midfield and struggled to disrupt the fluency of Fulham's football. Former Molineux man Kevin McDonald broke up visiting attacks with real relish and, in front of him, Tom Cairney and Stefan Johansen directed the contest almost effortlessly. Wolves toiled manfully but had only a wild strike from distance by Romain Saiss to show for their probing outside the Fulham box.

Once Mitrovic had shrugged off the attentions of an off-colour Coady to grab his second goal in three days, there only looked like one winner. The Whites nearly found a third just a minute later when a clever Cairney pass found Stefan Johansen, whose curler crept agnosingly wide of the top corner. Sessegnon, substitute Sheyi Ojo and Targett all fashioned chances to further extend the lead, but Wolves' forgettable evening in the capital was summed up with five minutes to play. Coady sent Benik Afobe clear with a raking ball through the Fulham defence and the Wolves substitute presented Jota with an open goal after his shot was blocked by the brilliant Tim Ream, but the Atletico Madrid youngster somehow contrived to lift his finish over the bar from eight yards out.

It would be tempting to take great heart from Fulham's consecutive home humblings of promotion rivals in the form of Aston Villa and the champions' elect. Jokanovic, eager to keep his players' feet on the ground, was already considering the threat Derby County will pose next weekend in his post-match press conference. What might matter more than the three points is the message this particular win sends – alongside the fact that Fulham kept a fourth successive clean sheet in the league at the Cottage for the first time since April 1999. There's a long way to go but the Whites are motoring nicely ahead of an enthralling Championship run-in.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Bettinelli; Fredericks, Targett, Kalas, Ream; McDonald, Johansen, Cairney (Odoi 9o); Ayite (Ojo 64), R. Sessegnon, Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Button, Christie, Norwood, Fonte, Kamara.

BOOKED: Targett.

GOALS: Sessegnon (38), Mitrovic (71).

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS (3-4-3): Ruddy; Bennett, Coady, Boly; Doherty, Douglas, Saiss (Afobe 76), N'Diaye (Gibbs-White 63); Costa (Jota 63), Cavaleiro, Bonatini. Subs (not used): Norris, Baath, Hause, Miranda.

BOOKED: Douglas, Boly.

REFEREE: Peter Bankes (Merseyside).

ATTENDANCE: 23,510.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/02/fulham-2-0-wolves/

[WhiteJC]

Jokanovic lauds one of his best Fulham wins
by Dan on February 24, 2018

Slavisa Jokanovic hailed Fulham's stylish win over Championship leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers tonight as one of his best victories since taking over at Craven Cottage.

The Whites extended their unbeaten run to twelve league games with a stunning victory over the division's pacesetters thanks to goals from Ryan Sessegnon and Aleksandar Mitrovic either side of half time. Speaking to the press after the final whistle, Jokanovic lauded his side's spirit and attitude as they proved their promotion credentials in front of the television cameras.

    I definitely believe this was one of the best games we had at this level. My team played a very good game. Wolves are a strong, fast team. We showed we can play against them. We came through adversity. We were brave, with great attitudes.

    We tried to not give them any space to move and at the end of the day we scored the necessary goals. Besides a good chance for them at the end of the game, we controlled the match—especially in the second half—and we must be satisfied.

The Serbian head coach wasn't keen to single out intervals for praise after what he called 'a team performance,' but he admitted Mitrovic has quickly become the focal point of Fulham's attack after his deadline day loan move from Newcastle.

    Mitrovic opens up different options for us. He scored a goal, he worked in the right direction for the team, and he held the ball up many times. He worked well off the ball too. He must be satisfied with his performance, just like we are satisfied with his performance.

Jokanovic refused to discuss the promotion picture – insisting his focus is only on another big fixture next weekend, the trip to fellow promotion contenders Derby County.

    I am only looking at the next game. The next game will give us an opportunity to fight for three points. This match will be soon be part of the past, and there will soon be another game, more important than the one today.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/02/jokanovic-lauds-one-of-his-best-fulham-wins/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham 2-0 Wolves: Player ratings
by Dan on February 25, 2018

Marks out of ten for Slavisa Jokanovic's men after Fulham stunned the league leaders at Craven Cottage ...

Marcus Bettinelli: An excellent display from the Fulham goalkeeper who made some smart saves at crucial times to keep the Whites in front. Looks more confident with the ball at his feet than he did last season, even if a couple of his first half kicks went astray, and scampered off his line swiftly a couple of times to avert any danger. Firmly established as Jokanovic's number one now and deserves great credit for four consecutive Craven Cottage clean sheets. 7

Ryan Fredericks: If the right back had a point to prove following Cyrus Christie's encouraging Fulham debut at Ashton Gate on Wednesday, then he offered a timely reminder to Slavisa Jokanovic with an exhilarating display this evening. Having conclusively lost the battle with Barry Douglas at Molineux back in November, Fredericks won that contest convincingly and flew into his tackles with real relish. Sped down the wing superbly in the second half and helped the home side generate real momentum when they were under a bit of pressure. 8

Matt Targett: Another mature performance from the on-loan Southampton full back. Showed no after affects from the ankle injury that forced him off at Bristol City in the week and was eager to give Wolves' wing-backs some defending to do from the outset. Dealt with the threat posed by Helder Costa decisively and might have capped an excellent evening with a late goal but shot into the side netting. 7

Tomas Kalas: Commanding return to the side for the Czech international after being rested on Wednesday. Gave Leo Bonatini, who had led Fulham a merry dance before Christmas, very little peace throughout and organised the back line brilliantly. Recovered exceptionally swiftly twice in the first half when Wolves broke at pace and looked assured on the ball as well. 7

Tim Ream: We'll soon exhaust all of the superlatives for the St. Louis native. This might have been his most impressive match in a Fulham shirt – just when you felt his remarkable renaissance at the heart of Jokanovic's defence would face its most serious examination. He was dominant from the outset, both in the air and on the ground, with his reading of the game exemplary. A first-class performance was summed up by his brilliant tackle to deny Benik Afobe a certain goal late on. 9

Kevin McDonald: The Scottish midfielder's excellence is so now commonplace it can go unremarked. Nullifed his ex-employer's midfield with real relish, but his game was more than just disrupting Wolves' rhythm. He regularly slotted into the back four when Ream and Kalas had been dragged out of position, but also found himself supplying some dynamism to Fulham's attacks at the other end of the field. 7

Tom Cairney: The skipper showed his class this evening after a rather laboured display at Ashton Gate on Wednesday. Got through his fair share of defensive work early on and dropped deeper to orchestrate Fulham's attacks, but weaved his way effortlessly through a crowded midfield to come to dictate proceedings. Probably his best display since before Christmas, which is good news with the Whites in the middle of a massive run of games. 7

Stefan Johansen: The Norwegian seemed to be everywhere at times this evening. Hassled and harried Wolves with an almost single-handed high press from the outset and turned defence into attack with either a beautifully threaded pass or a lung-busting run on an extraordinary number of occasions. Deserved a goal for the heights his energetic performance hit – and was fractions away with a lovely effort just seconds after Fulham had doubled their lead. 8

Floyd Ayite: It isn't difficult to see why Jokanovic plumps for the Togolese winger in crunch games like these. He set the tone early on, buzzing up and down the right flank like a likewire and looked dangerous cutting inside as well. Just as importantly he covered an impressive amount of ground whilst tracking back to ensure that Wolves' wing-backs didn't have the oceans of space they enjoyed at Molineux earlier this season. He could be a big player in the run-in. 7

Ryan Sessegnon: The teenager might not have stole the show with a virtuoso performance tonight, but he popped up with another massive goal – getting the reward for his incredible reading of the game by following in Aleksandar Mitrovic's powerful shot. Remarkably, he's scored thirteen goals from sixteen shots on target. Wolves put a man on him and Sessegnon thrived on the one-to-one battle – running into space at will. 8

Aleksandar Mitrovic: Displays like tonight's show why Slavisa Jokanovic has had the Serbian striker on his wishlist for eighteen months. Bullied Conor Coady, who has had a wonderful season at the heart of the Wolves defence, into submission and looks like the missing link for Fulham. Unlucky to be denied by John Ruddy in the first half, but scored his second in four days in sensational fashion. Showed more stamina and sharpness and looks a potent proposition up front. 9

Substitutes:

Sheyi Ojo (on for Floyd Ayite, 64): Returned to the fray as a substitute after Floyd Ayite had run himself into the ground and gave the Wolves defence no respite with plenty of purposeful runs down the right. Looked to have the beating of Douglas every time – getting the Scot booked for a cynical trip – but also got through plenty of defensive work. Made a terrific sliding tackle within seconds of coming on. 7

Denis Odoi (on for Tom Cairney, 90): Replaced the Fulham captain in stoppage time to shore up the clean sheet. 6



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/02/19188/

[WhiteJC]

 
The View from South Texas -- FFC v. Wolves

Of Febreze and Mariano Duncan​

There I was, all staked out in front of my computer, six minutes into the match when the other half of the now-defunct Tim and Bob Show arrived with food and good companionship designed to help me recover from my latest medical adventure. Having finally watched this season's iteration of Fulham enough to be able to write a coherent View, I was saddened to pass up the opportunity to write MY first match report of the season. About three hours later I remembered that ESPN3 has a replay option. There it was, waiting for me like a faithful four-legged friend, the match from the beginning!

And what a match. It didn't take me more than a few minutes to recognize that this is NOT Mick McCarthy's Wolverhampton Wanderers. This is a footballing side with disciplined and committed players executing a brilliant game plan. Two things are required to beat Fulham in the mood we're now in: recognition of opportunities to counter-attack with speed, and a disciplined front line to execute those attacks. Wolves had an abundance of the former and, for the entire first half, a complete absence of the latter. Each time they counter-attacked there was either an offsides call, a failure to anticipate a pass, or a clumsy turn in possession. Tim Ream and the rest of the back four were hardly troubled in the first 45 minutes.

The second half gave us all a glimpse at the brilliant attacking side that is this season's Wolves. The Putney End was under coherent, coordinated attack for the last 45. Of course, Fulham still were on the pitch, and Wolves excellent football gained them nothing.

Fulham were solid from the beginning, attacking with the width that they missed so much early in the season. Targett, Kalas, Ream, and Fredericks handled everything that came their way, ably assisted by McDonald at the front and Bettinelli at the rear. The midfield worked well with both the attack and the defense – something I'd been missing earlier in the season when Fulham often looked like 11 very talented individuals who had only met that morning. Those days are gone. Jokanovic has the squad he wants now, and they're all playing his style of football.

The two goals were an absolute joy. The first was a typical goal for our teenaged predator Ryan Sessegnon. Aleksander Mitrovic outmuscled his defender and fired low at Ruddy's feet. The Wolves keeper pushed it a foot or so away, and Sess came roaring in to put it in the net. 1-0 at the half, and a great relief for me. Too often we've seen Fulham dominate a first half and get nothing from it.

The second goal was a Mitrovic special, and it caused me to rise to my feet and cheer. Once again, dominating his marker physically, he turned and fired low into the right corner of the goal. 2-0 and the game was basically over. Later, in minute 89, Mitrovic found himself in front of goal with players on either side who could have taken his pass and run to the corner. Not gonna happen. Again he shifted the ball to his right foot and hammered toward goal. I yelled at my computer, "He's a shooter; let him shoot!"

Given a total of 18 inches to the left, the score could easily have been 2-0 at half time and 4-0 at the final whistle as the result of Johanson's probing shots from outside the box. It would have left me with a dilemma had either gone it, though. I thought Johanson was our least effective player overall, but a goal or two from him and he might have been HatterDon's Man of the Match.

Who was? Well, I gave a lot of thought to Tim Ream who broke up attack after attack and seldom put a foot wrong, but he was overshadowed by a complete performance from Ryan Fredericks. And then there was our teenagers 8th goal of 2018 – a number only excelled in all of England's four top leagues by Sergio Aguero. Finally, I decided to give the award to Mitrovich. He showed me the #9 leadership, strength, will, and execution we haven't seen at Craven Cottage since Bobby Zamora was sent packing. Well done, good sir, and well done everyone.

We have several tough matches to come, but I believe that in the end we'll be promoted along with Wolves. I also believe that the first purchase they will make will be a goalkeeper.

And then there's the shirt. Today, I donned my Cauley Woodrow top for the 8th match running. I swore from the start that I'd not wash it until we lost. My other Fulham shirts are disgusted every time Cauley returns to the closet, and my Febreze supply is dwindling as I write this.

What's next? Well, to quote former New York Yankee Mariano Duncan, "We play tomorrow, we win tomorrow, no problem." After all, we got the team, the boss, and THE SHIRT.



http://fulhamusa.com/threads/the-view-from-south-texas-ffc-v-wolves.9714/