http://www.people.co.uk/sport/football/football-hotline/2011/02/06/moussa-dembele-s-ful-stop-on-deadline-day-move-to-tottenham-102039-22901628/
Moussa Dembele's Ful stop on deadline day move to Tottenham
Feb 6 2011
by Dean Jones, The People
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TOTTENHAM had a transfer deadline day bid for Fulham's Mousa Dembele rejected.
An extra striker was one of the club's priorities as they anticipated losing Robbie Keane and wanted an extra body to challenge Jermain Defoe, Peter Crouch and Roman Pavlyuchenko.
They had Giuseppe Rossi in their sights but could not tie up a £35million deal with Villarreal.
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp turned his attention to Dembele, 23, signed by Mark Hughes for £5m in August.
He tore Spurs apart in the Cottagers' 4-0 FA Cup win but the north London club were told there was no chance of a deal.
Tottenham also failed with bids for Everton defender Phil Neville and Blackpool's Charlie Adam.
http://www.people.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/premier-league-match-reports/2011/02/06/aston-villa-2-2-fulham-it-s-pants-for-defender-john-after-og-102039-22902232/
Aston Villa 2-2 Fulham: It's Pants for defender John after OG
Feb 6 2011
By Dean Jones, The People
(http://images.mirror.co.uk/upl/people3/feb2011/3/3/dempsey-main-131830102.jpg)
JOHN PANTSIL must feel he is cursed after writing his name into the Premier League record books with a third own goal of the season.
Fulham's defender gifted Aston Villa the lead as he headed past Mark Schwarzer in the first half – and, although his side twice fought back to nick a draw, the Ghanaian has technically cost his side seven points since August.
His howler adds to an own goal in a draw at Blackpool at the start of the season and the only goal as Fulham lost 1-0 at Liverpool last month. It means he is only the second player in Prem history to score a trio of own goals in the same campaign.
Southampton's Andreas Jakobsson is the only other man to have achieved the unwanted feat in the top-flight – but to rub salt into Pantsil's wounds he also scored an own goal in this same fixture last season!
To add to his misery, the full-back was subbed early in the second half as he struggled to come to terms with his gaffe.
Luckily for him goals from Andrew Johnson and Clint Dempsey helped Fulham to a point, after Kyle Walker looked to have won the game with a 72nd-minute belter.
Fulham boss Mark Hughes said: "John was disappointed at half-time and I felt it was affecting him, so I made the early decision to take him off.
"In fairness it was a difficult ball to deal with, but he got it wrong and it put us on the back foot.
"Every goal you concede, irrespective of whether it is an own goal or not, we will review and try to address it to stop it happening again.
"But, in the end, we showed lots of desire and could have had three points, so given the circumstances I'm happy."
Villa have been touting £24million Darren Bent as a bargain buy over the past few days. The striker had an early effort ruled out for offside, but after that he struggled around the box.
On the other hand, Jean Makoun, their winter signing from Lyon, was immense in the centre of the field.
But it was a cross from one of Villa's other impressive midfielders, Stewart Downing, that helped Villa in front after 13 minutes.
His cross was aimed at Gabby Agbonlahor at the far post, but before the ball reached him Pantsil tried to nod the ball back to Schwarzer. The stopper was completely wrong-footed, and Pantsil looked to the heavens as the reality of his blunder sunk in.
Makoun continued to dictate play but Steve Sidwell made sure he did not have an easy time of it.
Sidwell was returning to Villa Park after leaving the club last month following an unsuccessful two and a half years in the Midlands.
He had two decent efforts before half time and then another just after the break. Eventually it was his drive on 52 minutes that led to Fulham's equaliser.
He blasted one from 25 yards and Brad Friedel could only parry the ball down for Johnson to throw himself in bravely and head the visitors level.
Villa's lead was restored in the 72nd minute as the unlikely figure of Walker popped up with a screamer.
Fabio Capello's No.2 Franco Baldini was in the stands casting his eye over a range of potential England squad members, including Walker, and will have been impressed by his initiative.
Collecting the ball on halfway, he shrugged Sidwell to one side and unleashed a piledriver low into the bottom corner of the net.
It should have been the winner, but Villa could not close out the game and Dempsey stole in with 12 minutes left on the clock to head home a super Danny Murphy corner for his 10th goal of the season.
Johnson could have made it 3-2 to Fulham at the end as Friedel made a great save, but Gerard Houllier is adamant his side deserved a win.
The Villa boss said: "Whatever Mark may say, we dropped two points. I thought the game would be over when we scored the second, and we have to blame ourselves.
"Maybe I should have made the changes earlier. I am disappointed with the result. We need to be more clinical and ruthless, it was the same against Man United. In the final third we must show more aggression."
http://www.people.co.uk/sport/football/sport-confidential/2011/02/06/red-hot-battle-for-job-at-manchester-united-102039-22901808/
CLINT DEMPSEY will reject offers of an MLS payday at the end of his career.
David Beckham may have deemed the American scene good enough as he winds down – but the ambitious Fulham striker (above) is adamant he won't play professionally in his homeland again.
Dempsey, 28, told Confidential: "No disrespect to MLS, but I want to finish at the highest level – and that's in Europe."
Aston Villa 2-2 Fulham: Sunday Mirror match report
Published 21:00 05/02/11
By Steve Stammers
(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/incoming/article691297.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/CP47301207.png)
Fabio Capello sent his right-hand man to Villa Park to check on players who may be called up by England.
But Franco Baldini must have left wishing he could take 10 years off a man whose international days are over – but who clearly still has so much to offer.
Danny Murphy has vision and intelligence and is the heartbeat of a Fulham team slowly but assuredly confining early relegation fears to the past as Clint Dempsey earned a point.
It could be said that Murphy, 33, never realised his potential on the international stage as injuries, along with a glut of talent in his position, restricted the number of caps he perhaps should have earned. But yesterday he showed exactly what he has to offer
Baldidni would have been impressed with Villa's England contingent in the first 30 minutes. Pace is key in the modern game and Gerard Houllier's side has it in the form of Stewart Downing, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Ashley Young and Kyle Walker – and Fulham appeared stretched and breathless in the face of their onslaught.
But they held out,with general Murphy emerging as the calming influence while his men got a grip on the game.
By half-time, it was only 1-0 to Villa – courtesy of am defender who is making own goals an unwelcome speciality: John Pantsil diverted a Downing cross past his own goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer in the 13th minute.
It followed bizarre own goals against Liverpool and Blackpool this season – and at Villa last campaign.
But the Midlands side failed to build on their breakthrough and paid the price in the 52nd minute.
The scorer, Andy Johnson, could not have been more delighted – his connection with Villa's rivals, Birmingham, meant that he was subjected to abuse all afternoon. But his reply was perfect as he swooped to head the ball home after Brad Friedel had parried a Steve Sidwell shot.
It was a double-whammy for Villa fans after Sidwell quit for Fulham last month. Villa became edgy and their attacks all too often petered out at the edge of the danger zone. So Walker, on loan from Tottenham, showed them how it should be done.
In the 72nd minute, he collected a clearance, surged forward and from 25 yards hit the target through a forest of legs
But, inspired by Murphy, Fulham came back yet again. Needless to say, the midfielder was involved as he drove a corner deep into the Villa area in the 78th minute.
Arguably, given his bulk, Friedel should have cleared everyone from his path to give himself the space to punch the ball clear.
But his fellow American, Dempsey, was airborne first to guide the ball into the net with his head.
"That is 10 for the season – the most he has got," said Fulham boss Mark Hughes.
"I think the point was the least we deserved. In fact, we could have won it," added Hughes, referring to the fact that Friedel was called upon to parry a fierce shot from Johnson late on.
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Aston-Villa-2-2-Fulham-Sunday-Mirror-match-report-Clint-Dempsey-s-10th-goal-of-the-season-earns-a-point-for-Fulham-article691825.html#ixzz1DA6HPUh (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Aston-Villa-2-2-Fulham-Sunday-Mirror-match-report-Clint-Dempsey-s-10th-goal-of-the-season-earns-a-point-for-Fulham-article691825.html#ixzz1DA6HPUh)
http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2011/2/5/1296924634373/James-Collins-of-Aston-Vi-006.jpgClint Dempsey denies Aston Villa as Fulham fight back for a 2-2 draw Comments (17) Observer report
Premier League
Aston Villa 2 Paintsil (og) 13, Walker 72
Fulham 2 Johnson, A 52, Dempsey 78
Barney Ronay at Villa Park guardian.co.uk, Saturday 5 February 2011 17.41 GMT Article history
(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2011/2/5/1296924634373/James-Collins-of-Aston-Vi-006.jpg)
James Collins of Aston Villa and Fulham's Clint Dempsey leap to challenge for the ball. Photograph: Matthew Lewis/Getty Images
A game that fizzled and sputtered without ever really catching fire somehow produced four goals, three in the second half, as Aston Villa and Fulham belatedly sought something more than the point that leaves both still warily paddling above the relegation spots.
"We restricted them to very few chances," Fulham's manager, Mark Hughes, said afterwards, although in truth a listless Villa didn't take much restricting after a bright start that saw the roving Ashley Young and Stewart Downing, stationed on the right, moving between the lines of Fulham's defence and midfield to good effect.
On 13 minutes Villa took the lead, Downing's expertly-dinked left-footed cross from the right inducing John Pantsil to head past his own goalkeeper from four yards out. Pantsil looked devastated, but not perhaps that surprised. He also scored an own goal here last season; this was his third of the current campaign.
During a largely soporific first half Villa were marginally the more threatening, with Fulham restricted to a couple of shots from Steve Sidwell.
It was from this source that they equalised seven minutes into the second half. Sidwell's hopeful shot from 20 yards squirmed away from Brad Friedel and Andrew Johnson headed the loose ball down and over the sprawling American.
Villa went ahead again on 72 minutes through a moment of inspiration from the impressive right-back, Kyle Walker. Picking the ball up in midfield, Walker advanced into a generous pocket of space and shot low from 20 yards, finding the corner for his first Premier League goal.
Fulham were level again within minutes, Clint Dempsey heading in after Friedel failed to clear a corner, and might even have won it at the death, Johnson cutting inside to draw a fine low save from Mark Schwarzer.
"We're improving," was the verdict of Villa's manager, Gérard Houllier, who was abused by a lone fan as walked to the tunnel at the final whistle. "We passed the ball better. We just need to be more clinical, more ruthless."
THE FANS' PLAYER RATINGS AND VERDICT
JONATHAN FEAR, AstonVilla.VitalFootball.co.uk Fulham were there for taking, I felt, but our set-up wasn't right. It was one up front again and Bent needs someone to play off, whether that's Heskey or Gabby, Ash needs to be on the wing not in a free role and Downing was on the wrong wing. It's round pegs in square holes. We started brightly and it looked like it might be a cricket score, but then we sat back and invited them on – losing the lead twice at Villa Park is not acceptable. If we'd just stepped it up a gear, Fulham didn't have the answers. Walker was my man of the match. You could see he was getting frustrated and tried to impose himself.
The fan's player ratings Friedel 7; Clark 6, Dunne 6, Collins 6, Walker 8; Agbonlahor 6 (Heskey 86 n/a), Petrov 7 (Albrighton 83 n/a), Makoun 6, Downing 6; Young 7; Bent 7
VICTORIA CONNOLLY, Observer reader We can't complain too much – it was pretty poor in the first half but got better. I'm pleased with a point after going behind twice. I'm really impressed by Sidwell. When Hangeland had to go out wide he filled in for him, and he also got forward for a couple of shots. He was all over the place. Apart from the own goal, Pantsil didn't have a great game and Hughes gave a very un-Hughes-like performance. Our next two league matches are Chelsea at home and Man City away, so I'm not confident about either of those. Given how tight the table is, I don't know where we'll end up. I don't think we'll go down but it might be a bit tight.
The fan's player ratings Schwarzer 6; Baird 6, Hughes 5, Hangeland 7, Pantsil 4 (Salcido 62 6); Dempsey 7, Murphy 6, Sidwell 7, Duff 6 (Davies 67 6); Johnson 7 (Gudjohnsen 90 n/a), Dembélé 7
To take part in the Fans' Verdict, email
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http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7944004/Aston-Villa-2-Fulham-2-match-report.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7944004/Aston-Villa-2-Fulham-2-match-report.html)
Aston Villa 2 Fulham 2: match report
Read a full match report of the Premier League game between Aston Villa and Fulham at Villa Park on Saturday Feb 5 2011.
ASTON VILLA2 - 2
FTFULHAM Saturday, February 05 15:00
Premier League
Villa ParkPantsil (OG) (13)Walker (72) (HT 1-0)
ATT: 35,899 Andrew Johnson (52)Dempsey (78)
(http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01819/clint-dempsey_1819593c.jpg)
Point made: Clint Dempsey levels the score for Fulham to make it 2-2 at Villa Park Photo: ACTION IMAGES By Sandy Macaskill, Villa Park 5:00PM GMT 05 Feb 2011
Sandy's Twitter
Either Fulham and Aston Villa forgot to eat their cornflakes for breakfast, or someone needs to remind them that residence outside the relegation zone is no excuse to stop fighting.
True, by the time Lee Mason called an end to proceedings it had developed into a decent enough scrap, but for too long this match flickered like a faulty torch.
It started promisingly enough, with John Pantsil scoring his third own goal of the season, but Villa chose to sit on their lead.
Fulham inevitably found their gear through Andy Johnson, before Kyle Walker put Villa ahead again from 30 yards. But Clint Dempsey rescued a draw with a goal which takes him into double figures for the first time in his career.
"We dropped two points today," said Villa manager Gérard Houllier. "We can be disappointed with ourselves. I am not disappointed with the performance, we passed the ball well, but we need to be more clinical, more ruthless. In the final third we must show more aggression to get to the ball."
Villa went ahead when Stewart Downing's cross reached Pantsil at the far post. The right-back, under pressure from Gabriel Agbonlahor, headed across his goalkeeper into the far corner. It would have been a tidy finish had it been at the other end of the pitch, and Agbonlahor touchingly patted the defender on the back in consolation.
Fulham did come back, with Steve Sidwell testing his former team-mate Brad Friedel with a low shot, but there was too much waste, as set-pieces in promising positions came to nothing because of a lack of accuracy or, worse, a lack of purpose.
Villa cushioned any attack with the ease of a boxer who knows he is in a light sparring session, soaking up the half-hearted jabs then springing back, probing but never over-exerting. They should have been straining for a second, aware that the visitors would not be so meek after 15 minutes in the half-time company of manager Mark Hughes.
Sidwell took it upon himself to raise the tempo in the second half, trying his luck again with another low effort at Friedel. The midfielder knows his man after 2½ years with Villa, and clearly passed on some intel to Johnson, who profited nicely when Friedel failed to smother.
Villa responded through Walker. The right-back likes to surge forward and he let loose in the 72nd minute with a low shot from 30 yards which burrowed into the bottom corner.
The good work was undone six minutes later when Dempsey ghosted in from deep to meet Danny Murphy's corner, levered his way between Richard Dunne and James Collins, and headed in.
http://www.dailyexpress.co.uk/posts/view/227412/Aston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescue/
ASTON VILLA 2 - FULHAM 2 - CLINT DEMPSEY CLINCHES THE RESCUE
Sunday February 6,2011
By Graham Read Have your say(0)
Aston villa 2 - Fulham 2
CLINT DEMPSEY struck late on to stun Aston Villa as Fulham twice came from behind to earn a draw which leaves both sides still looking anxiously backwards in the battle to avoid the drop.
Villa had taken a 13th-minute lead via John Pantsil's own goal only for Andy Johnson to level shortly after the break at Villa Park.
And Gerard Houllier's team paid the price for their casual approach a second time when Dempsey headed home after 78 minutes, cancelling out a stunning Kyle Walker strike just six minutes earlier.
Both sides look too good to go down and still have breathing space between themselves and the bottom three – Villa five points and Fulham six – yet Houllier and counterpart Mark Hughes will have viewed the draw as a missed opportunity to climb further clear and focus their attentions on a late European push.
Villa's club record signing Darren Bent thought he had his third goal in claret and blue colours in the sixth minute when Mark Schwarzer failed to hold a low Stewart Downing drive to leave him with an empty net, however, the Villa forward was adjudged to be marginally offside.
By the 13th minute Villa were ahead, though, when the excellent Jean Makoun fed Downing on the Villa right and his teasing cross with the outside of the boot was headed beyond the wrong-footed Schwarzer by Pantsil, under pressure from Gabriel Agbonlahor.
It was no more than the home side deserved for their bright start but not even an arm around the shoulder from Agbonlahor could console Pantsil, who has now scored three own goals this season.
While few could argue with Villa's results under Martin O'Neill, one criticism levelled at the Northern Irishman was their more direct style of soccer but, under Houllier, they are at least beginning to play free-flowing football.
January arrivals Walker and Makoun both look comfortable on the ball but Villa still retain the old-fashioned grit which was a hallmark of their play under O'Neill – epitomised in the 31st minute when skipper Stiliyan Petrov and James Collins threw themselves at a vicious Damien Duff shot.
Villa paid the price for their profligacy in the 52nd minute when Friedel failed to hold Steve Sidwell's drive and this time they were punished as Johnson thrust himself at the rebound, heading into the ground and over Friedel to level.
A golden chance for the home side to regain the lead went begging just two minutes later when Ciaran Clark headed a pinpoint Downing delivery wide.
Much to the frustration of the home crowd, Villa lacked urgency but, just seconds after being subjected to groans from their support, they regained the lead when Walker took the initiative, bursting through from the halfway line before drilling a stunning low 30-yard shot inside Schwarzer's left post.
That should have been that but Villa hit the self-destruct button once again in the 78th minute when Dempsey rose highest to head home a Danny Murphy corner.
Read more: http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/227412/Aston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescueAston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescue#ixzz1DAMpbpSm (http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/227412/Aston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescueAston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescue#ixzz1DAMpbpSm)
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/02/englands-number-one/ (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/02/englands-number-one/)
England's Number One
by Tor on February 5, 2011
(http://hammyend.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/stockdale-300x183.jpg)
Well nearly... Congratulations to David Stockdale on a well-deserved call-up to Fabio Capello's England squad for the friendly against Denmark this week. Stockdale has seriously impressed during his two periods between the sticks this season whilst Mark Schwarzer has been otherwise occupied with his own international career, and he was tipped for a place with the national squad last September but an injury sustained at Blackpool put paid to that. It's good to see that a further chance to impress has done exactly that.
Good luck David!
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/02/aston-villa-2-fulham-2/
Aston Villa 2 – Fulham 2
by Tor on February 5, 2011
(http://hammyend.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/villa-away-300x235.jpg)
It's probably safe to say that today has been a surprising day in the Barclays Premier League and this afternoon's match at Villa Park didn't disappoint. If you're a neutral that is. Fulham fans may feel slightly aggrieved by starting the match on the back foot thanks to John Pantsil's record-equalling 3rd own goal of the season. Villa fans, meanwhile, may have been disappointed by their team giving a way a lead not once but twice. Whether either team actually deserved to win the game I'm not sure.
The first half was pretty scrappy with a couple of chances for Villa. Pantsil's error came from attempting to clear a Downing shot in the 13th minute and Darren Bent had a goal disallowed for offside. That was it for the half really. Fulham were sloppy, there were a few too many silly mistakes and not enough chances. Hardly any in fact. I think Sidwell had a shot that went literally centimeters wide but otherwise the attacking force that have seemed so adventurous in the past few weeks were much quieter.
What a difference 20 minutes and a Sparky half-time chat makes. The boys in White came out determined to fight and it seemed to shock the Villa players somewhat. Seven minutes into the second half Sidwell takes another shot which is blocked by Friedel but Andy Johnson leaps and heads it past him into the goal, much to the delight of the home fans. Two substitutions followed; Pantsil comes off for Salcido to come on, pushing Baird to his favoured right hand side; with Davies replacing Duff five minutes later. Tactical? Probably. Neither were having a great game, although neither of their replacements set the pitch alight. It was that sort of game.
Credit where it's due though, Villa's second (first really) after 72 minutes was well deserved. Defender Kyle Walker latches on to a ball in the middle of the park, moves towards goal and shoots from 20 yards out tucking it past Schwarzer. A good goal, even if Gatesy reckoned it took a bit of a deflection on the way in. Fulham stepped up the pressure on the Villa defence; more shots from Sidwell, some lovely turns from Dembele and Andy Johnson and Dempsey making a bit of a nuisance of themselves. And boy did it pay off, with Dempsey using his bonce to good effect once again and firing the ball past Friedel twelve minutes from time, taking his season's tally into double figures. A late strike from AJ didn't quite make it into the net and Villa managed to effectively clear a couple of late Fulham corners ensuring a share of the spoils.
Not the finest display of recent weeks but a point is not to be sniffed at. We're 12th in the league with some tricky games coming up. The performances, both individual and team, are coming together and there's comfort to be had from that. Besides, we beat Spurs last week *chuckles*.
Man On Fire
Saturday 5th February 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/AJohnson/AJVilla.jpg)
After a hard-fought encounter at Villa Park on Saturday, Fulham goalscorer Andrew Johnson said his side were deserving of their point.
The Whites twice came from behind with Clint Dempsey adding to Johnson's brave header in what proved to be a positive afternoon for Mark Hughes' side against an in-form Villa.
"This is a difficult place to come," AJ told fulhamfc.com. "They have a strong squad and have recently added to that with some top players. So to come from behind twice against a side like Aston Villa is obviously fantastic and highlighted the commitment that we have here.
"We worked hard for the point and I think we saw what can be achieved by pulling together, never giving up and staying positive. It was entertaining game for sure."
Johnson claimed his second goal of the season to the backdrop of a chorus of boos, with the former Birmingham City man stooping bravely to nod in a leveller on 52 minutes after Brad Friedel parried Steve Sidwell's stinging strike.
"It was a difficult one because initially I was going to volley it," he said. "But then I realised I wouldn't get there. So I had to adjust my feet and managed to head it against the floor. I had to do that because Friedel was well placed and would have got it had I not done that.
"Luckily enough it went where I wanted, and it goes without saying that I was delighted to get us back into the game and to get myself on the score sheet. I've scored two goals in four games now, so I am very pleased.
"And as for the boos, well, I take it as a compliment really. It's nothing personal and it's all a bit of banter isn't it? That comes from playing for their rivals Birmingham, so it was to be expected. You just have to get on with it, and fortunately I managed to play my part."
The 29-year-old is enjoying a fine run of form of late and this was another performance that underlined his undoubted talent as well as doing much to put an injury ravaged 18 months behind him.
"I feel sharp and I'm really enjoying my football again," explained AJ. "I was out for a long time and I missed it so much. You don't realise how much you miss it until something like that happens to you and I'm just making the most of it.
"I'm happy with how things are going for me, but the main thing is that the team is doing very well as well. That's important, especially in terms of climbing the table. I'm delighted really.
"We have been working really hard and we have some tough games coming up now. Our next match is against Chelsea at Craven Cottage a week Monday and we'll go away now and prepare accordingly."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/February/AJVillaReaction.aspx#ixzz1DANnzW8q (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/February/AJVillaReaction.aspx#ixzz1DANnzW8q)
Stockdale For England!
Saturday 5th February 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Stockdale/StockdaleApplause.jpg)
Fulham Football Club is delighted to confirm that goalkeeper David Stockdale has been selected by Fabio Capello for England's squad to face Denmark in Copenhagen on February 9th.
Stockdale has been oustanding for Fulham this season, performing superbly at the start of the season and during the month of January when Mark Schwarzer was involved in international duty with Australia.
Stockdale has enjoyed many memorable performances this season, not least a penalty save against Manchester United that helped Fulham to a 2-2 draw at the Cottage.
In the month of January Mark Hughes handed the No. 1 jersey to Stockdale in Mark Schwarzer's absence and was richly rewarded for his faith in the young keeper, whose impressive displays have now been rewarded with a call-up to Fabio Capello's England squad
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/February/StockdaleEngland.aspx#ixzz1DAO4N2Dv (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/February/StockdaleEngland.aspx#ixzz1DAO4N2Dv)
Hughes Praises Desire
Saturday 5th February 2011
Speaking after Fulham's valuable 2-2 draw at Aston Villa on Saturday, Manager Mark Hughes praised his side's performance in what was a spirited and determined contest.
Goals from Andrew Johnson and Clint Dempsey handed the Whites a vital away point and having twice gone behind, Hughes' side could well have claimed all three.
He told fulhamfc.com: "Our resilience was evident again today and I was delighted with both the performance and the attitude. My players showed a lot of desire out there, and I really though they took the game to Aston Villa.
"The early own goal was obviously a set back and we had to pick ourselves up from that – which we did. We restricted the home side to few opportunities and it was important that we got a foothold in the game and create our own chances.
"It was a great finish from Andrew Johnson to draw us level and I was very pleased for him.
"We asked questions of Villa as we do against most teams, but unfortunately we went behind again. At 2-1 we kept at it and we weren't going to be denied.
"We showed great quality, and as a result we were rewarded with another good goal from Clint Dempsey – who is now in double figures for the season. He has been exceptional this year and that is a good milestone for the player.
"I actually thought that we finished the stronger of the two sides and perhaps we could have taken the three points. But given the circumstances that we went behind twice, we are reasonably happy with the outcome. We can take a lot from this performance and we are enjoying a nice run at the moment."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/February/HughesVillaReaction.aspx#ixzz1DAOKxNrQ (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/February/HughesVillaReaction.aspx#ixzz1DAOKxNrQ)
Aston Villa 2 - 2 Fulham
Mark Hughes retained the same starting eleven that beat Newcastle United 1-0 at the Cottage on Wednesday evening for Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash against Aston Villa.
Fulham's January signings, and a return to fitness of key players, handed Hughes arguably his strongest squad of the campaign so far. Gael Kakuta and Eidur Gudjohnsen were named on Fulham's bench, while former Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell lined up against his old club as Hughes' side looked to build on an impressive start to the second half of the year.
Gerard Houllier's Villa team featured three new recruits, including the club's record signing Darren Bent. The other two new names on Villa's team sheet was that of Cameroon midfielder Jean Makoun and Kyle Walker. There was no place for American international Michael Bradley however, a further signing made during the January transfer window.
Both teams went on the offensive from the first whistle, making for a fine spectacle, with Damien Duff and Ashley Young looking particularly dangerous in the opening exchanges down the flanks. After just six minutes of play Bent latched onto Mark Schwarzer's parry from Stewart Downing's strike to score from close range, but as the striker turned to celebrate, the linesman's flag was raised for offside.
After 13 minutes Villa did open the scoring with John Pantsil the unfortunate recipient of Downing's cross at the far post. Under pressure from Gabriel Agbonlahor, just a few yards from goal, Pantsil headed the ball across goal into the back of Fulham's net to give Villa the lead.
Steve Sidwell almost pulled Fulham level after 18 minutes with a drive from the edge of the area, but Friedel was well positioned to deal with the shot and the minor deflection the ball took on the way to goal.
Villa were constantly looking to utilise the pace and attacking guile of Young and Agbonlahor down the left flank but Villa's most potent threat came down the right hand side, in the form of Downing, whose ability to cut inside and deliver from out wide was a constant menace during the first half.
For all of Villa's attacking intent, the most skilful player on show wore the white shirt of Fulham. Mousa Dembele's close control, balance and vision was a pleasure to watch and the Belgium international left several markers for dead during the first-half exchanges.
The play ebbed and flowed towards the half hour mark as a goal for either side would seemingly tip the balance of the match. Sidwell almost swung it back in Fulham's favour again after 37 minutes with a left footed drive from 20 yards. On this occasion Friedel was not called into action as Sidwell's shot flew wide of goal.
Villa had an opportunity before the break from a set piece but the home side's opportunities were few and far between in the final 15 minutes of the first half. Fulham probed with a number of deliveries from out wide into the box but a final finish proved elusive.
Things looked to take a turn for the worse right before half time when Dembele limped off the pitch injured after taking an apparent knock to his right leg. The striker made it out for the second half in attempt to run the injury off but never looked comfortable.
Fulham made a bright start to the second period though and within five minutes of the restart, Sidwell almost pulled Fulham level once again.
However, Sidwell's fourth strike from distance paid dividends after 51 minutes when Friedel could only parry another stinging shot from 20 yards, with Andrew Johnson first on the scene to bravely head the ball home from six yards. Fulham were back in the game and deservedly so.
On the hour mark Mark Hughes made his first change of the match, replacing Pantsil with Carlos Salcido, with Chris Baird moved to right-back with the Mexican taking up his natural position on the left.
Just how well Andrew Johnson played on Saturday was highlighted by the reception the former Birmingham City striker was given throughout the game by the home supporters. Johnson was back to his best and showed the pace, movement and sharpness in front of goal that has proved so deadly at the top level over the years.
Twenty minutes from time the match was finely balanced with both sides probing for a winner, but it was Villa that took the upper hand with just over 15 minutes remaining. There was little Mark Schwarzer could do to stop Kyle Walker's right-footed strike from 30 yards. Walker's hit was true and arrowed into the far corner of the net.
Fulham came back at Villa from the restart and would just not lie down.
And after 78 minutes Dempsey pulled the game level with a headed goal from Damien Duff's corner. It was the US international's 10th goal of the season and once again, Fulham had earned their reward.
With ten minutes left the game was poised to go either way. Dempsey epitomised Fulham's fighting spirit and his never-say-die attitude was a credit to the man and his team.
Chris Baird was taking no prisoners either and was certainly not letting Ashley Young passed on 87 minutes. The defender picked up a booking for his efforts but Fulham remained resolute and solid during the final stages.
There was a brief appearance for Eidur Gudjohnsen during the final seconds of four minutes of injury time, with the Icelandic striker coming on for goalscorer Andrew Johnson.
Neither side could grab a late winner and a draw was, on reflection, a fair result. Credit must go to Hughes and his team who fought back on two occasions to take a well earned point back to SW6.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/MatchAndTeam/MatchCentre/Matches/1011/Premiership/AstonVillaAway.aspx#ixzz1DAOhUdE8 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/MatchAndTeam/MatchCentre/Matches/1011/Premiership/AstonVillaAway.aspx#ixzz1DAOhUdE8)
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/02/05/villa-2-2-fulham/ (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/02/05/villa-2-2-fulham/)
Villa 2-2 Fulham
Filed under: Match reports — rich @ 8:28 pm
Back and forth it went: first up Paintsil collapsed to meet a Downing cross and nodded in his third own goal of the season (13 mins). Then AJ reacted quickly to a Friedel parry and headed bravely home for 1-1 (52). Then Kyle Walker (the furthest man back at the time) picked up a loose ball, beat Sidwell and blasted a daisy cutter past Mark Schwarzer from (conservatively) 25 yards (72). Then Clint Dempsey climbed highest in the area and headed in another equaliser (78). 2-2. Phew. What a strange game.
Much to ponder, not least: is Paintsil 'done for'? In the week Mark Hughes addressed JP's contract situation (it expires this season) by not addressing it ('let's see how he plays'), and today Paintsil ended up being substituted on the hour. It didn't seem entirely necessary but Paintsil isn't playing all that well. He's never been particularly good going forwards, but if the defending goes wrong he's in trouble. His common or garden play today was fair enough, but there were many places he could have headed Downing's cross, and again he was found wanting. We must not forget that for all its narratives, sub-plots and intrigue, football is a simple game about goals for and against, and handing out cheap concessions is not what good teams do. (Our own George Cohen reckons he got his England place because Sir Alf Ramsey lost trust in Jimmy Armfield after a dodgy backpass that led to a goal).
Otherwise we played quite well. Not surprisingly, Villa were alive to what our players could do, so Murphy was forced to rove around in search of space, Dembele never quite broke free of his markers, Dempsey was shut out almost entirely (for the second straight game) and there was a general sense of our players needing at least one furtherpassing option when attacking: as it was Villa shut down our angles extremely well, and for a long time many of our attempts (and there were a few) were fiercely contested or snuffed out before they became dangerous.
Speaking of fierce, our new number 7 had a stormer: Steve Sidwell had much to prove, of course, but there was a real snap in his play, the kind of Bryan Robson performance that makes his lack of football in the last couple of years baffling. He had several shots on goal, most of them decent, and of course it was his drive that Friedel parried for Johnson's equaliser. He made some serious tackles too. Long may this continue; he looks like a phenomenal signing.
It's all there or thereabouts. The team's playing well and usually we'd expect nothing from Villa Park. That we got a point and could have had three says enough, especially given Villa's improvement in recent weeks.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9388510.stm
Fulham boss Mark Hughes sets sights on top-10 finish
Fulham manager Mark Hughes has targeted a top-10 finish in the Premier League after a 2-2 draw at Aston Villa.
The Cottagers have eased any relegation fears by taking 11 points from a possible 18 and twice came back from a goal down to earn a point.
Hughes said: "The way we are playing we expect to dig something out of every game irrespective of the opposition.
"We want to get into the top 10 as we think that's where our performances and quality deserve to be."
Villa took the lead through a John Pantsil own goal before Andrew Johnson stooped to head the Cottagers level.
Kyle Walker's long-range strike put the hosts back in front only for Clint Dempsey's late header to give the visitors a share of the spoils.
"We had the setback with the own goal in the first 10-15 minutes when Villa were pressing," said Hughes.
"But after that I thought we came back really strongly, certainly in the first half.
Click to play
Click to play
Houllier hopes new players click soon
"We restricted them to very few chances and were in the ascendancy in the second half.
"We needed to get back into the game quickly, which we did after a great finish by Andy Johnson, who showed his quality in understanding what needed to be done to put the ball into the net.
"We had another setback with their second. We went again, showed good qualities and really took the game to Villa and got our reward and that's what we have been showing of late.
"We have got real belief in what we are doing and real determination. If we continue in that vein we will pick up a lot of points.
"We are all committed to what we are doing now. We are really positive home and away and you see that in our play.
"We commit players forward, we try to win games and we look strong physically as well."
Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier was left ruing the fact his side were twice pegged back but he was encouraged by the signs of progress from his players.
"We dropped two points," said the Frenchman. "Had we got a second goal at 1-0 the game would have been over.
"But we have to be disappointed with ourselves, we have to blame ourselves.
"I'm disappointed with the result but not the performance. At times we played good football and are improving. But we need to be more clinical and ruthless.
"That was also the case when we played Manchester United here. In the final third, we must show more aggression. But it is a long season and we are learning.
"We could also have avoided both goals we conceded. We have enough height at the back.
"The players were disappointed with themselves but there are positives I can take from the game."
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9385528.stm
Aston Villa 2 - 2 Fulham
Dempsey has scored 10 goals for Fulham so far this season
By Mandeep Sanghera
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/51119000/jpg/_51119114_dempsey_466x282getty.jpg)
Clint Dempsey headed in a late equaliser to earn stubborn Fulham a draw at Aston Villa.
John Pantsil had gifted the home side the lead when he nodded a Stewart Downing cross into his own net.
The visitors hauled themselves level when Andrew Johnson headed in after Steve Sidwell's strike was parried by Villa keeper Brad Friedel.
Kyle Walker's stunning 30-yard drive restored Villa's lead only for Dempsey to equalise in the 78th minute.
It was Dempsey's 10th goal of the season and, although both teams had to settle for a point apiece from a finely balanced game, they provided an entertaining spectacle, showing why they have engineered revivals in form.
Having endured similar fortunes this season with troubled periods in the first half of the campaign - resulting in passing flirtations with the relegation zone - these sides have improved in recent weeks and a draw seemed fitting.
Their respective attacks have played a big part in their recoveries, with Villa splashing the cash on striker Darren Bent to help their cause, while Fulham have looked more of a threat with Moussa Dembele and Johnson leading their line during a sustained run in the side following injury.
With a place in the top half of the table within striking distance for both teams, Villa appeared the more determined to grasp the opportunity early on as they quickly started to overwhelm the visitors.
Downing produced a surging run from the left, cut inside and struck a low drive which Fulham keeper Mark Schwarzer managed to get a hand to.
And, despite Bent slotting in the loose ball, he was ruled marginally offside before Villa took the lead.
There was a pace and directness about Downing, who ended another run with a cross which Pantsil nodded across goal and into his own net in the 13th minute.
It was the Fulham right-back's third own goal this season and he has yet to register a goal for the Cottagers at the right end of the pitch.
Villa were showing some slick touches and there was a rugged resoluteness to their play but Fulham were putting in a hard-working shift to keep them at arm's length, ensuring the home side did not add to their lead.
However, the visitors struggled to make an impact in the final third, with a Sidwell shot which swerved the wrong side of the post their main chance of the first half.
It was a different story after the break, as the midfielder, who had left the Midlands club for Fulham in the January transfer window, played an integral part in the equaliser.
He again let loose from long range and, after Friedel parried his stinging strike, ex-Birmingham City striker Johnson stooped to nod in a leveller after 52 minutes.
Just as the Cottagers appeared to be taking control, on-loan Tottenham right-back Walker popped up to drift past Sidwell and fire a low strike into the bottom corner.
The lead lasted just six minutes as Friedel failed to meet a Danny Murphy corner and Dempsey headed in.
Friedel made amends for his mistake by blocking a Johnson strike as Fulham threatened to steal a win before the home side ended up holding on for a draw.
Gerard Houllier hopes new Villa players 'click' soon - Video Interview -
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/aston_villa/9388727.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/aston_villa/9388727.stm)
Positive Fulham approach delights Mark Hughes - Video interview -
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/f/fulham/9388707.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/f/fulham/9388707.stm)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6729492,00.html
Dempsey pleased to reach ten
Fulham forward wants to carry on scoring
Last updated: 5th February 2011
(http://img.skysports.com/11/02/218x298/Clint-Dempsey-Fulham-Premier-League_2559180.jpg)
Dempsey: Reaches double figures
Fulham forward Clint Dempsey is pleased that he has made double figures for goals for the first time in his career at the Cottagers.
The American international scored a vital header at Aston Villa on Saturday to make the game 2-2, despite having a relatively quiet game throughout.
Dempsey joined Fulham in 2007 from New England Revolution, but has never managed to reach more than nine goals for the club.
However, now that he had overtaken that margin, he was eager to continue scoring and see how many he could get this season.
"I always wanted to get to double digits, I came close a few times getting nine, but it feels good and hopefully I'll push on from here," he said.
"We've got some more games left so I'll just see how many I can get.
"I didn't get on the ball as much as I'd have liked and ended up playing a bit more defensive than I'd have liked. But sometimes you've got to grind out results and we've got a good point, especially coming from behind."
Good run
The 27-year-old paid tribute to the team for their fightback, and that the competition for places now at Craven Cottage was making the players work harder and maintain a high standard.
"We're on a good run of form so we'll keep it going right now, we're almost mid-table and looking to push on from there.
"There's more competition for spots and I think we can finish the season strongly.
"When you're down at the bottom it's definitely difficult, but we've got ourselves out of that position and now we're trying to move up."
http://www.skysports.com/football/match_report/0,19764,11065_3284303,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/football/match_report/0,19764,11065_3284303,00.html)
Plucky Fulham hold Villa
Friedel errors cost home side all three points
Last updated: 5th February 2011
(http://img.skysports.com/11/02/496x259/Andy-Johnson-Fulham-Premier-League_2559125.jpg)
Johnson: Equalised for Fulham
Man of the match: Steve Sidwell showed Villa boss Gerard Houllier that he may have been hasty in selling him. He was the fulcrum of Fulham's good play and at times looked a better player than his replacement last month - Jean Makoun.
Goal of the match: Kyle Walker's excellent 25-yard bullet that went straight into Mark Schwarzer's bottom corner. Walker made the goal from nothing, bursting through the centre of midfield to unleash a great finish.
Save of the match: Brad Friedel didn't have his best game, but his save at the very end from Andy Johnson with his legs was vital.
Shot of the match: Chris Baird's late volley that went just wide of goal following a corner.
Moment of the match: John Pantsil's bad luck continued as he scored his second own goal in the space of ten days with a header into his own bottom corner.
Talking points: Both sides definitely look too good to go down, but Fulham will go home the happier. Can both teams push for a top half finish?.
Clint Dempsey rescued a point for Fulham as he levelled late on to claim at 2-2 draw at Aston Villa.
In a close match at Villa Park, Villa took the lead through another unfortunate own goal from John Pantsil, before Andy Johnson levelled for the Cottagers shortly after half-time.
Kyle Walker then struck a bullet from around 25 yards into the bottom corner with less than 20 minutes remaining, but Dempsey, who had a quiet game throughout, was on hand to head home Danny Murphy's corner six minutes later.
It will go down as a bad day for Villa keeper Brad Friedel, who was rarely tested, but parried Steve Sidwell's shot straight into Johnson's path to score, before being caught in no-mans land for Dempsey's equaliser.
Villa dominated the first half with winger Stewart Downing causing plenty of problems and linking up well with full-back Walker down the right flank.
Newcomer Jean Makoun also impressed in the middle of the park and Villa deservedly led through the unfortunate Pantsil.
He had also scored an own goal in the corresponding fixture last season.
But it was a different story in the second half as Villa lost momentum and the visitors grew in confidence with skipper Murphy impressive in the middle of the park.
Villa were first to settle and Downing made a powerful run into the Fulham box and saw his low shot parried by Mark Schwarzer.
Record Villa signing Darren Bent was alert to tuck away the rebound but he had strayed marginally offside.
Downing was looking sharp and it was his quality which led to a Pantsil own goal giving Villa the lead after 13 minutes.
Makoun found the England winger on the right flank and he cut inside before delivering a teasing centre with the outside of his left foot.
Pressure
Pantsil, under pressure from Gabriel Agbonlahor, could only head the ball past Schwarzer into the corner of the net.
Former Villa midfielder Sidwell had Fulham's first shot on goal after 18 minutes but Friedel was equal to his swerving drive from 20 yards.
Downing was causing constant problems down the right flank with his runs and testing crosses.
A mistake by Villa skipper Stiliyan Petrov allowed Mousa Dembele a free run at the penalty area.
But, after the ball broke to Duff, Villa left-back Ciaran Clark was alert to block his low shot.
Sidwell was only just wide of the target with a low shot which had Friedel scrambling across his goal.
Another error from Petrov played Makoun into trouble and Mousa Dembele tried to take advantage but James Collins made a typical block.
Sidwell brought danger to his side when he brought down Petrov 30 yards out in a central position.
Downing's shot was blocked but Makoun's follow-up effort was only just wide.
Villa began the second half on top and Schwarzer held on to a drive from Agbonlahor.
Bent then failed to make proper contact with a shot after making good ground.
Sidwell was providing the main threat for Fulham and Collins deflected his low attempt for a corner.
Level
But after 52 minutes former Birmingham striker Johnson brought Fulham level.
Friedel parried another shot from Sidwell - and Johnson was first to react to the rebound.
Clark could have restored Villa's lead immediately but failed to make clean contact with his header from Downing's centre.
Agbonlahor then teed up Young but he sliced his shot wide.
Young was yellow carded for a challenge on Sidwell after 62 minutes.
After 72 minutes a long-range strike from Walker restored Villa's lead.
Walker had time to line up a 25-yard shot which flew past Schwarzer into the corner of the net.
Petrov was booked for a foul on Sidwell with 13 minutes remaining and 60 seconds later Fulham levelled for the second time.
Friedel came out for but never reached Murphy's corner and Dempsey headed home.
Tempers became frayed and Makoun was yellow carded for a challenge on Dempsey and then Baird for chopping down Young.
Friedel did however make a fine save to block Johnson's powerful drive with a minute remaining.
Aston Villa
Team Statistics
Fulham
2 Goals
2
1 1st Half Goals
0
3 Shots on Target
5
5 Shots off Target
5
3 Blocked Shots
4
3 Corners
6
15 Fouls
12
2 Offsides
1
3 Yellow Cards
2
0 Red Cards
0
77 Passing Success
78.6
22 Tackles
18
68.2 Tackles Success
72.2
55.9 Possession
44.1
45.7 Territorial Advantage
54.3
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6729369,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6729369,00.html)
Houllier disappointed to draw
Villa boss gutted to see team twice throw away lead
By Mike Barton - Follow me on Twitter @Ssports_mbarton Last updated: 5th February 2011
Gerard Houllier has admitted he and his Aston Villa team were "extremely disappointed" to twice surrender a lead to draw 2-2 with Fulham.
Villa looked on course to beat the Cottagers at Villa Park on Saturday, leading at half-time thanks to a John Pantsil own goal, but Andy Johnson equalised shortly after the interval.
They then took the lead again with less than 20 minutes to go thanks to Kyle Walker's superb effort, but Clint Dempsey took advantage of some slack defending from a corner six minutes later to bring the scores level.
Despite being a good game to watch, Houllier was gutted to have seen his team draw after such a strong first-half showing, with the visitors coming back strongly after the break and looked the more likely winners.
"The entertainment is one side of the game, but the other side is that we feel extremely disappointed because we played extremely well first half and could have done better in terms of goals," said Houllier.
"Even before they equalised we had a great move and could have been 2-0 up but once they equalised it looked as if it affected a bit of morale.
"We managed to get back in front but I thought we only have ourselves to blame for not holding on to the result, because Fulham at the moment is full of confidence. In the second half they deserved their equaliser."
Goalkeeper Brad Friedel had a rare off-day in goal for Villa, where he failed to push out Steve Sidwell's shot sufficiently and allowed Johnson to score, as well as being caught in no-man's land for Dempsey's header from Danny Murphy's set-piece.
The Frenchman however refused to blame Friedel for the result, stating that it was down to the entire team.
Unlucky
"We win as a team and we lose as a team. Brad had a good game, he was a bit unlucky with the shot off Sidwell but apart from that, the header from the corner could have been dealt with in a different way," he added.
"We probably lost control of the game particularly after they got the equaliser, which was a bit unexpected because it was practically their first chance.
"That swung the confidence on the other side, but we keep working, we know that we need to be a bit mentally stronger than what we are at the moment. The team's play was good, it's just a shame that we conceded as well.
Commenting on Walker and new signing Jean Makoun, Houllier felt their contributions to the team were having a positive affect.
"He's not only a great full-back and good defender but he can also score a few goals, he did that against his former club (Sheffield United in the FA Cup third round.)
"I thought Jean had a good game, he played last Tuesday against Manchester (United) and did well, but he looked a bit tired at the end.
"Obviously when you have new players you need better connections and the links were not the best at time, but I thought on the whole we produced some good football."
Reports from Aston Villa official site -
http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2286386,00.html (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2286386,00.html)
http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2286378,00.html (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2286378,00.html)
http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2286273,00.html (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2286273,00.html)
http://astonvillacentral.com/2011/02/aston-villa-2-fulham-2-points-dropped-at-villa-park/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+astonvillacentral+%28Aston+Villa+Central%29 (http://astonvillacentral.com/2011/02/aston-villa-2-fulham-2-points-dropped-at-villa-park/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+astonvillacentral+%28Aston+Villa+Central%29)
Aston Villa 2 Fulham 2: Points squandered after failure to capitalise on strong 1st half
Feb 201105.
By: Dan
Comments: 8
(http://astonvillacentral.com/wp-content/uploads/dempsey_goal.jpg)
It was honours even at Villa Park after a frustrating performance led to points being dropped for the second time against Fulham this season. An own goal from John Pantsil and a superb goal from Kyle Walker were both cancelled out by goals from Andrew Johnson and Clint Dempsey. Brad Friedel won't want to watch the replays.
It started extremely promisingly, some exceptionally fluid play from Villa at times, Jean Makoun at the heart of much that was positive. An early effort from Darren Bent, slotting home Downing's parried shot, was chalked off for being marginally offside, but it was an encouraging sign of intent.
Downing was a force to be reckoned with down the right, driving toward Fulham's back line with every opportunity, fitting that the opening goal came from his outside of the boot delivery, Pantsil nodding into his own net with Gabby charging in behind.
Fulham were allowed to assert themselves towards the end of the half, Steve Sidwell in particular playing like a man with a point to prove, but they were barely able to worry Friedel by the time the break came.
The second half looked to be more of the same with Gabby and Darren Bent both being set up for chances that they should really have done better with. Somehow though, and Sidwell playing a better game than most of us have seen might have much to do with it, Fulham grew in confidence and began to stake a claim.
It's was Sidwell's 4th shot from distance, parried by Friedel straight back where it came from, that was pounced on by Andrew Johnson diving low to head in. No one in claret and blue covered themselves in glory, but Friedel really should have palmed the shot to the side. Johnson did well to get on the end of the chance, it has to be said.
Villa showed flashes of their early form, but some of the fire seemed to have died down. With legs starting to look tired, Houllier switched Gabby into a more central role and Ash out to the left and the benefits were felt almost immediately as Ash won a free kick from Danny Murphy attempting to charge up the flank.
The free kick was cleared and fell to Downing on the other flank and he sent the ball back to Stiliyan Petrov who quite lazily laid the ball off to Kyle Walker, seemingly exasperated at a lack of alternative options. It didn't go down well with the home support, but Walker responded in positive fashion, setting off on another arrow-like run toward goal before unleashing a powerful low drive to the bottom corner that Schwarzer had no chance of saving.
With 18 minutes left on the clock, the game was far from safe, Fulham's central partnership of Sidwell and Murphy were winning the battle over Makoun and the tired looking Petrov.
In the end, the equaliser came from a corner, Clint Dempsey delaying his run just enough to ghost into empty space, Brad Friedel the only player able to make a challenge, but unfortunately he was second to the ball and Dempsey headed in.
From there, the game tapered out. Marc Albrighton came on for Petrov with barely more than five minutes left on the clock, Emile Heskey ran on to replace Gabby at a corner in the 87th minute, but it didn't make any difference. There was the usual frantic chase for a winner, leaving worrying amounts of space at the back, but neither side were able to break the deadlock.
OverallOnce again much to be positive about in terms of individual performances. Downing was excellent, particularly during the first half, as was Ashley Young playing just behind Darren Bent. Bent himself and Gabby were largely ineffectual, the logic of employing Gabby out wide now lost on just about everyone, myself included.
Jean Makoun was again the heart of the team, although he didn't quite manage to match the impressive passing numbers from Old Trafford; just the 61 complete passes for an 83% success rate today. Petrov, I thought, was much better during the first half, but faded badly; he simply does not have the fitness to keep up with the pace in the Premiership for a full game and in the end made Sidwell look better than he is.
Kyle Walker was excellent for the most part, although he frustrated by wasting some great positions with poor crosses, he must have made up for that with a great goal. He still looks a little suspect defensively at times, but that's not uncommon for an attacking full back.
Tactically, Houllier threatens to erode a lot of the goodwill he's amassed during January with an insistence of playing Gabby wide and Ash centrally despite neither player being offered the chance to work to their strengths. Whatever the underlying rationale behind sticking with this approach, sooner or later the manager must concede that it isn't the most effective use of the personnel at his disposal.
Today, although I wouldn't claim that Fulham weren't decent value for their point, it still feels a lot like two points were dropped and we're just not in position to be that generous. The positive vibe might be back, and rightly so, but we can't get complacent, there's still much work to be done.
On to the next oneNow we look to the next one, away to Blackpool next Saturday. Holloway's men were beaten 5-3 in an incredible game at Goodison, as he said himself, Blackpool are in danger of slipping into the part of the table most would have predicted they'd occupy and they're now one place below us in 15th.
We were less than convincing in beating a weakened Blackpool at Villa Park, their determination alone is enough to cause concern about the reverse fixture, especially since we still don't seem to have the ability to kill off a stubborn opponent or, indeed, hold out against a determined one.
As today served to prove, still moving in the right direction, still a long way to go. Next time, Petrov's place has to be at risk to Michael Bradley who was paraded in front of the Villa Park crowd, but not included in the 18 man squad.
Aston Villa starting XI: Friedel, Walker, Dunne, Collins, Clark, Petrov, Makoun, Downing, Agbonlahor, Young, Bent. Subs: Marshall, Delfouneso, Pires, Cuellar, Heskey, Reo-Coker, Albrighton.
Opponent starting XI: Schwarzer, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Pantsil, Dempsey, Sidwell, Murphy, Duff, A Johnson, Dembele. Subs: Stockdale, Salcido, Gera, Gudjohnsen, Kakuta, Greening, Davies.
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/dempsey-rescues-point-for-fulham-at-villa-park-2205590.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/dempsey-rescues-point-for-fulham-at-villa-park-2205590.html)
Dempsey rescues point for Fulham at Villa Park
Aston Villa 2 Fulham 2
By John Curtis, PA
Saturday, 5 February 2011
Clint Dempsey's 10th goal of the campaign rescued a point for Fulham, after they had twice trailed to Aston Villa in a ding-dong Barclays Premier League clash at Villa Park.
Villa twice looked set for victory after a John Pantsil own goal and Kyle Walker's first ever league goal put them in the ascendancy.
But Andy Johnson and then Dempsey struck back for Mark Hughes's side.
Villa dominated the first half with winger Stewart Downing causing plenty of problems and linking up well with full-back Walker down the right flank.
Newcomer Jean Makoun also impressed in the middle of the park and Villa deservedly led through the unfortunate Pantsil.
He had also scored an own goal in the corresponding fixture last season.
But it was a different story in the second half as Villa lost momentum and the visitors grew in confidence with skipper David Murphy impressive in the middle of the park.
Villa were first to settle and Downing made a powerful run into the Fulham box and saw his low shot parried by Mark Schwarzer.
Record Villa signing Darren Bent was alert to tuck away the rebound but he had strayed marginally offside.
Downing was looking sharp and it was his quality which led to a Pantsil own goal giving Villa the lead after 13 minutes.
Makoun found the England winger on the right flank and he cut inside before delivering a teasing centre with the outside of his left foot.
Pantsil, under pressure from Gabriel Agbonlahor, could only head the ball past Schwarzer into the corner of the net.
Former Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell had Fulham's first shot on goal after 18 minutes but Brad Friedel was equal to his swerving drive from 20 yards.
Downing was causing constant problems down the right flank with his runs and testing crosses.
A mistake by Villa skipper Stiliyan Petrov allowed Mousa Dembele a free run at the penalty area.
But, after the ball broke to Duff, Villa left-back Ciaran Clark was alert to block his low shot.
Sidwell was only just wide of the target with a low shot which had Friedel scrambling across his goal.
Another error from Petrov played Makoun into trouble and Mousa Dembele tried to take advantage but James Collins made a typical block.
Sidwell brought danger to his side when he brought down Petrov 30 yards out in a central position.
Downing's shot was blocked but Makoun's follow-up effort was only just wide.
Villa began the second half on top and Schwarzer held on to a drive from Agbonlahor.
Bent then failed to make proper contact with a shot after making good ground.
Sidwell was providing the main threat for Fulham and Collins deflected his low attempt for a corner.
But after 52 minutes former Birmingham striker Andy Johnson brought Fulham level.
Friedel parried another shot from Sidwell - and Johnson was first to react to the rebound.
Clark could have restored Villa's lead immediately but failed to make clean contact with his header from Downing's centre.
Agbonlahor then teed up Young but he sliced his shot wide.
Young was yellow carded for a challenge on Sidwell after 62 minutes.
After 72 minutes a long-range strike from Walker restored Villa's lead.
Walker had time to line up a 30-yard shot which flew past Schwarzer into the corner of the net.
Petrov was booked for a foul on Sidwell with 13 minutes remaining and 60 seconds later Fulham levelled for the second time.
Friedel came out for but never reached Murphy's corner and Dempsey headed home.
Tempers became frayed and Makoun was yellow carded for a challenge on Dempsey and then Baird for chopping down Young.
Friedel made a fine save to block Johnson's powerful drive with a minute remaining.
Aston Villa 2 Fulham 2: Clint Dempsey salvages a point for stubborn Cottagers
By Mark Ryan
Last updated at 11:09 PM on 5th February 2011
An angry fan hurled abuse at Gerard Houllier as he walked towards the tunnel. There were more appropriate targets on a day laced with delicious farce.
'Somebody shouted at me but he pays for his ticket so he is allowed to shout,' said the Frenchman. 'Nice words,' he added sarcastically.
The manager held out his hands in response as if to ask the disgruntled supporter what precisely he was supposed to have done about Villa twice losing their lead.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/02/05/article-1353973-0D0DCEF8000005DC-535_634x403.jpg)
Mobbed: Fulham rush to congratulate Clint Dempsey (left) following his equaliser
The answer, perhaps, was to put a respectful arm around Brad Friedel and politely suggest that it might be better to follow Manchester United legend Gary Neville into retirement before he hits 40.
The American goalkeeper, who has been one of the Premier League's finest servants, fumbled Villa oldboy Steve Sidwell's 52ndminute effort and allowed Andy Johnson to head home.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/02/05/article-1353973-0D0DFA42000005DC-631_634x529.jpg)
Handy Andy: Johnson celebrates his goal for Fulham
Kyle Walker then appeared to have won the game for the home side with a bobbling 30-yarder, but Friedel went missing when he should have been collecting Danny Murphy's 78th-minute corner and his fellow-American, Clint Dempsey, headed home.
Houllier said: 'It would be inappropriate to incriminate anyone.' It was hard not to 'incriminate' Fulham's John Pantsil, who took his tally of own-goals this season to three.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/02/05/article-1353973-0D0DCF78000005DC-845_634x471.jpg)
Run chase: Kyle Walker scores Villa's second goal
Villa v Fulham - teams
Villa (4-4-1-1): Friedel; Walker, Dunne, Collins, Clark; Downing, Makoun, Petrov (Albrighton 83min), Agbonlahor (Heskey 86); Young; Bent. Subs (not used): Marshall, Pires, Delfouneso, Reo-Coker, Cuellar.
Fulham (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Pantsil (Salcido 62), Hughes, Hangeland, Baird; Duff (Davies 67), Murphy, Sidwell, Dempsey; Dembele, Johnson (Gudjohnsen 90). Subs (not used): Stockdale, Gera, Kakuta, Greening. Referee: L Mason (Lancashire)
He also put though his own net at Villa Park last term and after 13 minutes yesterday, he nodded beyond a baffled Mark Schwarzer under pressure from Gabriel Agbonlahor.
A merciful Mark Hughes substituted Pantsil in the 62nd minute and the player acknowledged a pocket of applauding fans near the dug-out. It wasn't clear which team those fans were following.
'He was obviously disappointed at half-time and I felt it was affecting him somewhat,' said the Fulham boss. 'It can affect your confidence so I made a decision to take him off.'
Can Hughes stop this otherwise competent defender from scoring repeatedly in the wrong net? 'You always review every little detail and hopefully we will stop it happening in the future,' said Hughes without a trace of irony.
Football is a serious business. Except that yesterday you had to laugh at times.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1353973/Aston-Villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-salvages-point-stubborn-Cottagers.html#ixzz1DAQ1wl5q (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1353973/Aston-Villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-salvages-point-stubborn-Cottagers.html#ixzz1DAQ1wl5q)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6726264,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6726264,00.html)
Hughes pleased with progress
Fulham boss believes competition for places is helping good run
By Mike Barton - Follow me on Twitter @Ssports_mbarton Last updated: 5th February 2011
(http://img.skysports.com/11/01/218x298/hughes_2547446.jpg)
Hughes: Pleased with point
Fulham boss Mark Hughes was pleased that his side managed to win a point at Aston Villa and praised their spirit.
Hughes' team twice came from behind to draw 2-2 at Villa Park, with Andy Johnson and Clint Dempsey cancelling out a John Pantsil first-half own goal and Kyle Walker's brilliant strike.
The Welsh boss was happy his side did not allow Pantsil's unfortunate blunder to make their heads drop and felt that they had the better of the second half and could have won.
"I'm pleased with the performance, obviously we had a setback of an own goal early in the first half and that could have knocked us out of our stride," he said.
"But it didn't, we came back strong in the first half and for the last 20-25 minutes restricted them to very few chances.
"I thought we were excellent in the way we took the game to Villa and the way we came back twice shows great character and great resolve.
"That what we've been showing in recent weeks and from our point of view it's a good result. It's a difficult place to get a point but we did really well.
Stronger
"You see in our play we finish games stronger and that's a quality that's been growing since we've come into the new year.
"We're playing well, we're driving the game, we try and ask questions of the opposition home and away. And if you keep on knocking on the door then you'll get some reward
"We obviously have to keep picking up points because we want to get in the top half. If results had been a little bit more than expected then we could have got in the top ten."
Hughes also felt that with the additions of the likes of Steve Sidwell, Eidur Gudjohnsen and Gael Kakuta at Craven Cottage, the players were stepping up their game as competition for places gets stronger.
Competition
"I think it's helping the guys in that they know there is competition for places now and you have to perform," Hughes added.
"That's what you want at a football club. Just driving people on. Today saw some good performances. The two centre halves have been playing really well for a number of weeks now. I thought they were excellent again today.
"Clint Dempsey has reached double figures for goals and I don't think he's ever achieved that before, so he's had a great season, so a lot of positives."
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/175477/Aston-Villa-2-Fulham-2/
ASTON VILLA 2 FULHAM 2
6th February 2011
By Richard SydenhamYour Shout ( 0 )
TWO blunders by veteran goalkeeper Brad Friedel cost Villa a win as battling Fulham twice came from behind to snatch a point.
The errors allowed Andy Johnson and Clint Dempsey to score after Villa led through John Pantsil's third own goal of the season and then defender Kyle Walker.
The ageing Friedel cost rookie Walker his moment of glory as his long range strike should have been enough to see off Fulham, but it was not to be.
The result summed up Villa's season, as they continue to hover uncomfortably above the drop zone, while Fulham will be pleased with their fighting spirit.
"I'm delighted with the performance, attitude and desire of the players to come back," said Fulham boss Mark Hughes. "In the end I felt we were the strongest team and could have even nicked the three points."
But Villa boss Gerard Houllier disagreed, saying: "Whatever Mark says we dropped two points. I'm disappointed with the result but not with the performance.
"We need to be more clinical, ruthless, and more aggressive in the final third."
But he refused to blame Friedel, saying: "Both goals could have been avoided but I don't think it's appropriate to incriminate anyone."
Villa's England internationals Ashley Young, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Darren Bent were anonymous for long periods and lacked the killer touch.
The first-half started brightly when Villa had the ball in the net in the fifth minute but Bent's neatly-taken finish was ruled out for offside.
Stewart Downing, operating on the right, had unleashed a firm strike that goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer could only parry as Bent fed on the loose ball and slotted in only to be denied by the flag.
Villa didn't have to wait too long before they did take the lead.
Downing crossed with the outside of his left foot for clumsy Pantsil to head into his own net while under pressure from Agbonlahor.
The hapless Pantsil also scored an own goal against Villa last season but Villa failed to build on their lead and sat back, allowing the Cottagers into the game.
Ex-Villa man Steve Sidwell twice went close with long range shots before helping to bring Fulham level in the 52nd minute.
The normally reliable Friedel couldn't hold his shot and poacher Johnson nodded in the rebound.
Former Birmingham City player Johnson had received his fair share of abuse for his links with Villa's bitter rivals and celebrated in style.
It took right-back Kyle Walker, on loan from Tottenham, to put Villa ahead again with a stunning strike in the 72nd minute.
Walker, who scored on his Villa debut last month with another cracker, was allowed to advance from half-way and held off Sidwell before hitting a bobbling 25-yard shot that Schwarzer would probably feel he should have done better with.
Again Villa failed to keep hold of the lead and Mark Hughes's team were level once more six minutes later through another Friedel blunder.
The American, 39, still to decide if he will play on beyond this season, tried to punch Danny Murphy's corner but got nowhere near the ball, leaving his compatriot Clint Dempsey to head into an empty net.
Friedel redeemed himself to some extent at the end when he blocked Johnson's shot that could so easily have stolen the points for Fulham and left him even more red-faced.
http://www.express.co.uk/football/view/227412/Aston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescue
ASTON VILLA 2 - FULHAM 2 - CLINT DEMPSEY CLINCHES THE RESCUE
Sunday February 6,2011
By Graham Read
CLINT DEMPSEY struck late on to stun Aston Villa as Fulham twice came from behind to earn a draw which leaves both sides still looking anxiously backwards in the battle to avoid the drop.
Villa had taken a 13th-minute lead via John Pantsil's own goal only for Andy Johnson to level shortly after the break at Villa Park.
And Gerard Houllier's team paid the price for their casual approach a second time when Dempsey headed home after 78 minutes, cancelling out a stunning Kyle Walker strike just six minutes earlier.
Both sides look too good to go down and still have breathing space between themselves and the bottom three – Villa five points and Fulham six – yet Houllier and counterpart Mark Hughes will have viewed the draw as a missed opportunity to climb further clear and focus their attentions on a late European push.
Villa's club record signing Darren Bent thought he had his third goal in claret and blue colours in the sixth minute when Mark Schwarzer failed to hold a low Stewart Downing drive to leave him with an empty net, however, the Villa forward was adjudged to be marginally offside.
By the 13th minute Villa were ahead, though, when the excellent Jean Makoun fed Downing on the Villa right and his teasing cross with the outside of the boot was headed beyond the wrong-footed Schwarzer by Pantsil, under pressure from Gabriel Agbonlahor.
It was no more than the home side deserved for their bright start but not even an arm around the shoulder from Agbonlahor could console Pantsil, who has now scored three own goals this season.
While few could argue with Villa's results under Martin O'Neill, one criticism levelled at the Northern Irishman was their more direct style of soccer but, under Houllier, they are at least beginning to play free-flowing football.
January arrivals Walker and Makoun both look comfortable on the ball but Villa still retain the old-fashioned grit which was a hallmark of their play under O'Neill – epitomised in the 31st minute when skipper Stiliyan Petrov and James Collins threw themselves at a vicious Damien Duff shot.
Villa paid the price for their profligacy in the 52nd minute when Friedel failed to hold Steve Sidwell's drive and this time they were punished as Johnson thrust himself at the rebound, heading into the ground and over Friedel to level.
A golden chance for the home side to regain the lead went begging just two minutes later when Ciaran Clark headed a pinpoint Downing delivery wide.
Much to the frustration of the home crowd, Villa lacked urgency but, just seconds after being subjected to groans from their support, they regained the lead when Walker took the initiative, bursting through from the halfway line before drilling a stunning low 30-yard shot inside Schwarzer's left post.
That should have been that but Villa hit the self-destruct button once again in the 78th minute when Dempsey rose highest to head home a Danny Murphy corner.
Read more: http://www.express.co.uk/football/view/227412/Aston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescueAston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescue#ixzz1DAfwNecx (http://www.express.co.uk/football/view/227412/Aston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescueAston-villa-2-Fulham-2-Clint-Dempsey-clinches-the-rescue#ixzz1DAfwNecx)
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/48960/aston-villa-vs-fulham/player-ratings
Player Ratings: Aston Villa 2-2 Fulham
By Ben Bradley
Brad Friedel045.5He should have done better with the Fulham equaliser.a shot from 25 yards by Steven Sidwell saw Friedel parry the ball right into the path of Andy Johnson. Although he got a hand to the ball he couldn't keep it out. Will have been disappointed that his attempted clearance from a Danny Murphy corner resulted in a Fulham equaliser. Other than that the Villa no. 1 was rarely called upon
Richard Dunne216.0Good game in the heart of the Villa defence for Dunne. He managed to prevent Andy Johnson from creating any clear-cut chances and will be encouraged by his performance.
Ciaran Clark116.0Played his part in keeping out the Fulham attack and Gerrard Houllier will be pleased with his attempts. Passed the ball well around the field and cleared any danger that came near him.
James Collins216.0Struggled at times to deal with the threat of Damien Duff but ensured that the tricky winger was unable to get the better of him most of the game. As a result Duff was replaced in the second half.
Kyle Walker426.5Helped Villa regain their lead as a run from near enough the halfway line saw an audacious low hit shot find its way through a host of players and beyond Schwarzer via a very kind bounce in the ground. Played well on his home debut and his forward runs were encouraging for the home side.
Stewart Downing117.5Was easily Villa's best player. He showed excellent control in the sixth minute to take the ball past the Fulham defence and allow Bent to slot home from six yards, only for it to be given as offside. Just moments later a quality cross with the outside of his left foot caused Pantsil to panic and give Villa a 1-0 lead.
Jean II Makoun326.5Had a good home debut for Villa and managed to make his presence on the game known. Linked up well with Petrov in the centre of the pitch and had a good battle with Steven Sidwell and Danny Murphy all game. Shown the yellow card for a 50/50 with Clint Dempsey in the 80th minute.
Stilian Petrov116.0Linked up well with Makoun in the heart of the Villa midfield. As a captain he led by example but unfortunately was shown the yellow card in the 77th minute for a late challenge on Steve Sidwell. He was replaced by Marc Albrighton in the 83rd minnute.
Ashley Young247.0Had an excellent game on the left hand side of midfield for Villa and managed to run at the Fulham defence numerous times,causing a handful of chances. Linked up well with other midfielders and will be pleased with his perrformance.
Gabriel Agbonlahor147.0Had a good game in midfield for the home side and an excellent piece of pressure from the England international caused John Pantsil to head the ball into his own net in the 13th minute. Was replaced by Emile Heskey in the 86th minute.
Darren Bent146.5Really unfortunate to have had offside given against him in the sixth minute as replays showed he was in an onside position when Stewart Downing took his shot. That didn't stop the striker,who kept battling and caused the Fulham back line havoc all game.
• Substitutions
Marc Albrighton116.0Came on as an 83rd minute replacement for Stiliyan Petrov and had little time to make an impact.
Emile Heskey036.0Replaced Gabby Agbonlahor in the 86th minute but didn't see much of the ball.
Fulham
Mark Schwarzer106.0There wasn't much the Australian 'keeper could do about the Villa opener. Pantsil's headed goal suprised the 'keeper and caught him unaware. Schwarzer can count himself lucky that his parried clearance that allowed Darren Bent to slot home in the sixth minute was ruled offside. Again the same with the second goal. A shot from long range saw him beaten.
John PaintsilFlop of the Match125.0Gave Villa a 1-0 lead after good pressure on a Stewart Downing cross from Gabby Agbonlahor saw the defender panic and head the ball into his own net in the 13th minute. Struggled with the pace of Young and was replaced in the 62nd minute by Carlos Salcido.
Brede Hangeland116.5Was a rock at the centre of the Fulham defence and did well to keep Darren Bent quiet in the second half. Would have been more had it not been for the way Hangeland dealt with the threat.
Chris Baird105.5Held his position in the Fulham defence well although he struggled for pace at times. He was shown the yellow card in the 87th minute for a challenge on Young.
Aaron Hughes115.5Struggled at times to cope with the pace of the Villa attack and was terrorised all game.The Fulham defender will be disappointed with his performance in this game.
Steve Sidwell316.5The midfielder had a good game in the centre of the park for the visitors and battled tirelessly all game. It was his shot that saw Brad Friedel parry the ball right into the path of Andy Johnson who equalised in the 52nd minute.
Danny Murphy116.5Looked steady in the centre of midfield for Fulham and gave an assured performance for the visitors. It was his corner that allowed Clint Dempsey to equalise and give Fulham a share of the spoils.
Damien Duff106.5There were glimpses of trickery from the Irish winger, as he looked like Fulham's best source of attacking supply. The experienced winger ran at the Villa defence quite a lot but was replaced by Simon Davies in the 68th minute.
Clint Dempsey417.0Equalised for Fulham in the 78th minute as a Danny Murphy corner allowed him to rise highest and head past Brad Friedel. Had a good game in midfield and he deserved his goal.
Moussa Dembele206.0Was fairly annonymous for his standards.managed to link up with Andy Johnson well and play the supporting role. The striker will have been disappointed he didnt create many chances for himself.
Andy JohnsonTop of the Match218.0Fulham's best player by a mile. He was greeted with boos by the home support as the former Birmingham city striker gave a strong performance to stake a claim for a place in Fabio Capello's squad for the upcoming friendly with Denmark. The way he held up the ball made it difficult for the Villa defence to cope at times. Took his goal well despite pressure from dunne, thoroughly deserved. Replaced by Gudjohnsen in injury time.
• Substitutions
Carlos Amoldo Salcido 216.0Came on as a 62nd minute replacement for John Pantsil and seemed to steady a shaky defence. The defender put in a good performance and will be pleased.
Simon Davies116.0The Welsh midfielder came on as a 68th minute replacement for Damien Duff and helped add to an already pressing Fulham team. He slotted in well and produced some good balls.
Eidur Smari Gudjohnsen 316.0Came on as an injury time replacement for Andy Johnson.
http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/02/05/aston-villa-2-fulham-2-late-clint-dempsey-strike-denies-villans/
Aston Villa 2 Fulham 2: Late Clint Dempsey Strike Denies Villans Victory
05/2/2011 12:10 PM GMT
By Brendan McLoughlin
Steve Sidwell was in inspired form on his return to Aston Villa as Fulham twice came from behind to earn a draw that left both sides still in a battle to avoid Premier League relegation.
Villa had taken a 13th-minute lead via John Pantsil's own goal only for Andy Johnson to level shortly after the break, and they were pegged back for a second time when Clint Dempsey headed home with 12 minutes to go, cancelling out a stunning Kyle Walker strike just six minutes earlier.
While both sides still have some breathing space to the relegation zone (Villa five points and Fulham six), both Gerard Houllier and Mark Hughes will view the draw as a missed opportunity to have all but ended any fears of being dragged back into a scrap to beat the drop.
Despite playing some attractive football, Villa were far too casual in their approach, while the Cottagers undid a hard-working display, particularly from the excellent Sidwell, with some defensive lapses.
Darren Bent thought he had his third goal in claret and blue colours in the sixth minute when Mark Schwarzer failed to hold on to a low Stewart Downing drive to leave him with an empty net, however the Villa forward was adjudged to be marginally offside.
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Villa were celebrating by the 13th-minute, though, when Jean Makoun fed Downing down the Villa right and his teasing cross with the outside of the boot was headed behind the wrong-footed Schwarzer by Pantsil, under pressure from Agbonlahor.
Sidwell, making his return to Villa Park following his January move to the Cottagers, troubled Brad Friedel with a swerving low shot that the veteran American failed to hold
Villa still retain the old-fashioned grit that was a hallmark of their play under Martin O'Neill, however, and it was epitomised in the 31st minute when skipper Stiliyan Petrov and James Collins both bravely threw themselves at a vicious Damien Duff shot from the edge of the area to protect Friedel's goal.
The veteran American should have done better for Fulham's 52nd-minute equaliser, however, after he failed to hold on to another Sidwell low drive and Johnson thrust himself at the rebound, heading into the ground and over Friedel to level matters.
A golden chance for the home side to regain the lead went begging just two minutes later when the unmarked Ciaran Clark headed a pinpoint Downing delivery disappointingly wide of the goal.
Much to the frustration of the home crowd, Villa lacked urgency but, just seconds after being subjected to groans from their support, they regained the lead when Walker took the initiative, bursting through from the halfway line before drilling a stunning low 30-yard shot inside Schwarzer's left post.
That should have been that but Villa hit the self-destruct button once again in the 78th minute when Dempsey rose highest to head home a Danny Murphy corner and ensure the sides finished level for the second time this season.
REACTION:
Gerard Houllier insisted his side should have walked away with three points and bemoaned their missed opportunities:
"Whatever Mark says, I think we dropped two points today. First of all, we had a chance of 2-0, there was a movement down the right and unfortunately we couldn't get to the end of the cross.
"It could have been a 2-0 lead before they equalised. But then we managed to get the second goal and I thought the game would be over. But we just have to be disappointed with ourselves, that's all.
"Maybe we should have made the changes a bit before because I thought the midfield were suffering. I am disappointed with the result, not the performance."
On the passing game he is trying to implement:
"At times we played some good football. We are improving, we passed the ball better and we prepare better but I feel at the end of our movement we need to be more clinical and more ruthless. This was exactly the same case when we played against Manchester United. In the final third we must show more aggression to get to the ball and to get to the goal. But it's a long season."
On Makoun, who made his home debut:
"He is an experienced player. I thought he was tired at the end. But he is a proper link between the midfield and the strikers. He gets on well with everybody. He has played in the Champions League and he has caps for Cameroon. He'll be a good asset for the future. He, Kyle and Darren need to gel with the rest of the team."
On the positives to take from the game:
"Don't get me wrong, I am disappointed with the result but they are positives from the game. I know some journalists don't like that but I am not going to put the head deeper in the water. At times we played some good football. At some stage, we could have done better as a team to avoid the goals."
Fulham manager Hughes was thrilled with his team's character after seeing them twice come from behind:
"I was delighted with the performance. I thought the lads really took the game to Villa. We resricted Villa to very few opportunities. It was important we got a foothold, which we were able to do."
On the finishes by Johnson and Dempsey:
"It was a great finish by Andrew Johnson. I was pleased for him. We asked questions of them, as we have against most teams this season. Clint Dempsey took his goal very well. He's in double figures for the first time which is a great milestone for him. We even had a couple of opportunities where we could have had the three points."
On Pantsil:
"He was obviously disappointed at half-time. It thought it was affecting him so I took the decision to take him off. It was a difficult ball to deal with."
WHAT IT MEANS:
Hughes will have been the happier of the two managers after seeing his side trail twice. This is the sort of game Houllier would be expected to win and, if they are to make a late surge up the table, they will have to play with more tempo and ruthlessness. Neither should be dragged back into a relegation scrap, yet a European push also looks unlikely on this evidence.
ASTON VILLA 2 (Pantsil OG 13, Walker 72) FULHAM 2 (Johnson 52, Dempsey 78)
PLAYER MARKING:
Aston Villa (4-3-3): Friedel 7; Walker 7, Collins 7, Dunne 6, Clark 6; Petrov 7 (Albrighton 83, 5), Makoun 7; Agbonlahor 7 (Heskey 86, 5), A Young, 7 Downing 7, Bent 7
Subs (not used): Marshall, Pires, Delfouneso, Cuellar
Fulham (4-4-2): Schwarzer 6; Pantsil 6 (Salcido 62, 7), Hangeland 7, Hughes 7, Baird 6; Duff 7 (Davies 68, 6), Murphy 7, Sidwell 9, Dempsey 7; Dembele 6, Johnson 7 (Gudjohnsen 90, 5)
Subs (not used): Stockdale, Gera, Kakuta, Greening
REFEREE: Lee Mason
ATTENDANCE: 35,899
UP NEXT:
- Blackpool v Aston Villa (away) Premier League, 12/2 1500 GMT
- Fulham v Chelsea (home) Premier League, 14/2 2000 GMT
MAN OF THE MATCH:
Steve Sidwell (Fulham): Offered a reminder of why Villa bought him in the first place with a combative and energetic display in the middle of the park.
Chris Baird video interview -
Baird Interview - Premier League World (http://vimeo.com/19584218)
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3393697/Aston-Villa-2-Fulham-2.html (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3393697/Aston-Villa-2-Fulham-2.html)
Aston Villa 2 Fulham 2
Published: 05 Feb 2011
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Kyle Walker's first Aston Villa goal put the home side 2-1 in front with 18 minutes remaining.
But Dempsey leapt highest to head home on 78 minutes as Fulham built on their midweek win over Newcastle.
Earlier, John Pantsil scored his second own goal in four games to gift Villa the lead.
Andy Johnson's second goal of the season brought the visitors back into it before the late drama.
And Cottagers boss Mark Hughes praised his side's resilience for twice coming from behind.
He said: "John was disappointed at half-time. It was affecting him so I made the early decision to take him off.
"It was a difficult ball for him to deal with but he got it wrong and it can affect your confidence.
"You always review every goal you concede to try to erase any little defaults.
"But I was pleased with the way the team came back twice and kicked on and in the end we could have taken three points."
Hughes added: "We picked ourselves up from the own goal and restricted Villa to very few opportunities in the first half.
"It was a great finish by Andrew Johnson and we then really took the game to Villa and asked questions of them.
"We went behind again but we kept going, weren't to be denied and showed great quality."
Villa chief Gerard Houllier groaned: "We dropped two points today. Had we got a second goal at 1-0 the game would have been over.
"But we have to be disappointed with ourselves, we have to blame ourselves.
"I'm disappointed with the result but not the performance. At times we played good football and are improving. But we need to be more clinical and ruthless.
"That was also the case when we played Manchester United here. In the final third, we must show more aggression. But it is a long season and we are learning.
"We could also have avoided both goals we conceded. We have enough height at the back.
"The players were disappointed with themselves but there are positives I can take from the game."
Danny Murphy tried his luck early on with a volley that went well wide but Stewart Downing took centre stage as Villa started to dominate.
The winger saw a low shot parried by Mark Schwarzer with Darren Bent offside as he tucked home the rebound.
But on 13 minutes Downing's cross pressurised Pantsil and he could only head past Schwarzer with Gabby Agbonlahor lurking.
Former Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell had Fulham's first shot on goal after 18 minutes but Brad Friedel was equal to his swerving 20-yarder.
A mistake by Villa skipper Stiliyan Petrov allowed Moussa Dembele a free run at the penalty area. But, after the ball broke to Damien Duff, Villa left-back Ciaran Clark was alert to block his low shot.
Sidwell was only just wide of the target with a low shot which had Friedel scrambling across his goal.
Another error from Petrov played Jean Makoun into trouble and Dembele tried to take advantage but James Collins made the block.
Sidwell brought down Petrov 30 yards out in a central position. Downing's shot was blocked but Makoun's follow-up effort was only just wide.
Villa began the second half on top and Schwarzer held on to a drive from Agbonlahor before Bent wasted a good chance.
Sidwell ralled for Fulham and his low attempt was deflected behind by James Collins.
But after 52 minutes former Birmingham striker Johnson brought Fulham level.
Friedel parried another shot from Sidwell and Johnson was first to react to the rebound.
Clark could have restored Villa's lead immediately but failed to make clean contact with his header from Downing's centre. Agbonlahor then teed up Young who sliced his shot wide.
A long-range strike from Walker after 72 minutes restored Villa's lead. The on-loan Tottenham player had time to line up a 30-yard shot which flew past Schwarzer into the corner of the net.
But with 12 minutes left, Fulham levelled for the second time as Dempsey got to Murphy's corner before Friedel to nod into an empty net.
And Villa needed Friedel to be at his best to keep hold of a point with a minute left when he blocked Johnson's powerful drive.
Aston Villa: Friedel, Walker, Dunne, Collins, Clark, Petrov (Albrighton 83), Makoun, Downing, Ashley Young, Agbonlahor (Heskey 86), Bent. Subs not used: Marshall, Pires, Delfouneso, Reo-Coker, Cuellar. Booked: Ashley Young, Petrov, Makoun. Goals: Pantsil 13 og, Walker 72.
Fulham: Schwarzer, Pantsil (Salcido 62), Hughes, Hangeland, Baird, Duff (Davies 67), Murphy, Sidwell, Dempsey, Dembele, Johnson (Gudjohnsen 90). Subs not used: Stockdale, Gera, Kakuta, Greening. Booked: Murphy, Baird. Goals: Johnson 52, Dempsey 78.
Att: 35,899
Ref: Lee Mason (Lancashire).
HUGHES: MURPHY CAN BE TOP-10 HIT
(http://images.sportinglife.com/11/01/330/murphypic_2556339.jpg)
Fulham boss Mark Hughes believes has identified skipper Danny Murphy as the man who can drive his side to a top-10 finish.
The Cottagers have revived their fortunes in recent weeks after being too close to the bottom of the table for comfort.
But even through their lean times, 33-year-old Murphy was a consistent performer and he drew praise from Hughes and his former boss Gerard Houllier after Saturday's 2-2 draw at Aston Villa.
Hughes said: "Danny was excellent again. He has been really consistent this year in fairness.
"Early in the season, we weren't getting many plaudits because we were struggling to pick up points.
"Right through the season from the start to now, Danny has put consistently excellent performances together.
"He has driven the team on. At the moment we are getting positive results and people are recognising the job that Danny has done this year."
Houllier, who was Murphy's boss at Liverpool, said: "I thought Danny Murphy was good. I am sorry to say that!
"Danny is playing with his head. I understand why they gave him a new contract because he is a tremendous passer.
"I know Danny and he's always looked after himself. He's not a silly boy, he loves the game and he wants to play."
Fulham have won only one of their last 31 away games but there were encouraging signs at Villa Park as they twice recovered to earn a share of the spoils.
An own goal from John Pantsil and Kyle Walker's first ever league goals were cancelled out by Andrew Johnson and Clint Dempsey.
Hughes said: "In our games now, we finish stronger. That is a quality that has been growing since we came into the New Year.
"We are playing well, driving games, and trying to ask questions of the opposition.
"We have to keep picking up points because we want to get into that top half of the table.
"If results had been a little bit more as we expected this weekend, then possibly we would have been in that top 10 position already.
"But we are happy enough with where we are at the moment, we are playing well and picking up points."
Fulham's former Villa midfielder, Steve Sidwell, said: "The need to improve their away record was drummed into the boys as soon as I went there.
"Craven Cottage is a fortress, but we need to pick up points away and slowly but surely we're doing that.
"It's something to improve and build on."
Houllier looks to have unearthed a class midfielder in Jean Makoun - a £5 million signing from Lyon - who impressed on his home league debut.
He said: "Jean is an experienced player. I thought he was tired at the end. But he is a proper link between the midfield and the strikers.
"He gets on well with everybody. He has played in the Champions League and he has caps for Cameroon.
"He'll be a good asset for the future."
Pantsil's own goal was his third of the season but Johnson's clinical finish brought Fulham level.
Walker's powerful low shot restored Villa's lead only for Dempsey to score his 10th goal of the campaign - the first time he has reached double figures.
http://www.villatalk.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=4195
Fulham fail to match their heroes of 1966!
Posted by: John on Sunday, February 06, 2011 - 03:50 PM
It has been 45 years since a Fulham team won a top flight league game at Villa Park. But, although that run remains unbroken after yesterday they did come back twice to take a point that keeps them above us and us just five points clear of each of the clubs who currently hold the three relegation places at the foot of the table.
We had a much better first half than second. We played some lovely flowing football against a Fulham side which like us have through recent results put some points between themselves and the main relegation candidates. But, the second half was a different story and we always looked like needing a two goal cushion that never really looked like coming on a day when not everyone on our side was quite at the races. They came back twice from a goal down to peg us back and they looked the more likely winners at the end.
Three points would have put us mid table and just 3 wins from relative safety. We now need to go to Blackpool, show their manager that we are a big team after all and by doing so claim back the two points we dropped yesterday because two goals at home really should have been enough to have secured us a win had our defence not been so fragile. Still at least unlike others yesterday we did not lose a 4 goal lead or lose a long unbeaten run to the bottom team in our division!
By the way, players get booked for celebrating a goal in front of their own fans but yesterday we had an example of a player goading opposition fans by running in front of them after equalising and then gesticulating in their direction after celebrating in the corner with the away fans that had made the trip. But, what else would we expect from ex-Nose Johnson who has done this at Villa Park before and seems to feel he is immune from punishment? Let's hope he gets a bit of retrospective justice but I doubt that he will.
My player ratings from a game that we would have seen us go twelfth in the league and over 30 points had we won are:
Brad Friedel – 5 – A Brad day at the office for the oldest ever Aston Villa player. Brad will have been disappointed not to have pushed Sidwell's 52nd minute shot away from the goal mouth rather than back into the middle where Johnson's reaction was quicker than Dunne's as he stooped to head the ball downwards which then bounced over Brad and into the net despite Dunne's attempts to reach it. He then came off his line to try to claim the ball from a 78th minute corner but got nowhere near it as Dempsey rose all too easily between Collins and Dunne to head a second equaliser into the corner of an unguarded net and to once again expose our defensive fallibilities from corners. Brad did stop a 17th minute Sidwell shot that appeared to move in the wind or did it hit him? But, he did do very well to block an 88th minute Johnson effort with his legs that had "late winner" written all over it.
Kyle Walker - 8 – A place in the England squad and a goal that deserved to win any match. Kyle was at his best yesterday, he linked well with Downing, showed good pace when moving forward and unlike his defensive colleagues gave no cause for defensive anxiety. Ran from just inside his own half past Sidwell before hitting a screamer from at least 30 yards that found its way into the corner of the net for what should have been our winner.
Richard Dunne – 5 – His lack of pace is an ongoing concern this season and he needs to see whether he can step up a gear again to give us the level of performance that he produced so consistently last season.
James Collins – 5 – This was strikingly different from his man of the match against Manchester City. Neither he nor Dunne looked at all confident or accomplished in the centre of our defence.
Ciaran Clark - 6 – A couple of lapses of concentration one of which led to possession being lost and not regained prior to their first equaliser. Should have been on target with an unchallenged header on 53 minutes that he miscued from a good Downing cross. But, our soon to be Irish international is doing a job that does not come naturally to him.
Stewart Downing – 8 – The best of our forward players by some way today. Some very good runs and some very decent crosses as demonstrated with a great cross with the outside of his foot that just eluded Bent's head but not Pantsil's who applied a splendid finish to put us ahead on 13 minutes and to claim his third own goal of the season.
Stiliyan Petrov – 5 – Did not make much of an impression on this one and looked weary in the last half an hour again. Might just have had a cunning plan on 72 minutes though when he fed the ball back to Walker who then went on the run that led to our second goal rather than pump it forward as he was being invited to by us!
Jean Makoun – 9 – MOTM – Rarely put a pass astray or was caught in possession. He shows foresight and has the ability that only highest quality players have of instinctively seeming to know what he will do with the ball before he actually gets it. Nice one touch football and an eye for a pass as shown when he fed Downing for our opener. Our man of the match by a county mile!
Ashley Young - 6 – Quiet today and looked better when wide as for me he always does.
Gabby Agbonlahor – 5 – He really looks out of place out wide and unhappy to be there. Hit a decent ball through to Bent that was just too long for him on 39 minutes and then found Ash well on the edge of the box whose effort went wide under challenge on 57 minutes. His one shot on target was not caught right and was easily gathered by their keeper.
Darren Bent – 6 – Inches away from scoring an opener on 6 minutes when Downing went on a good run and hit a shot from the edge of the box that Schwarzer was only able to push out for Darren to pounce and put into the net but to be adjudged very marginally offside. Lacked service and what he had proved often just beyond his reach such as on 69 minutes when a decent Downing ball in just passed out of his reach. Screwed a shot wide at the start of the second half that he might have done better to have taken a touch on rather than to hit it first time.
Substitutes:
Marc Albrighton – Unlucky not to have started for me replaced Petrov on 83 minutes and did not have enough time to make a real impression or to earn a rating.
Emile Heskey – Replaced Gabby on 86 minutes. It would have been nice to see how he might have gone playing alongside Bent today but he was on too late to demonstrate that or to rate.
Up the Villa!
John Lewis
http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2011/02/proving_a_point.php
Proving a Point
Posted by Phil Mison 6 hours, 59 minutes ago
(http://images.mirror.co.uk/upl/people3/feb2011/3/3/dempsey-main-131830102.jpg)
© mirroruk
Winning home games and nicking draws on the road is all we can ask for cementing our position in the Premiership. Hughes keeps Fulham moving in the right directon at Villa.
We'll start with the laurels. Big shout out to David Stockdale for breaking into the England squad. Recognition well deserved for his composed attitude when getting his chance. Fulham have a world class keeper waiting in the wings who is good for the next ten years if we keep him sweet. And well done to Dempsey for his 10th goal of a very impressive season. Braveheart as ever totally committed, going in hard where it hurts to thunder home our second equaliser with his head. Even when not having an outstanding game, Clint continues to show his value to the cause. What a return we've had from the Texan since 2007 for an outlay of just £1.5 million.
I don't think we'll be hearing from the cocky Villa posters in a hurry who predicted a comfortable home win. Although we failed to break our duck on this ground, only a desperate block by Friedel with his legs at the death denied AJ a winner we might just have deserved for our spirited response to twice going behind. On paper Houllier's side have relied on a fluke of an own goal from the accident-prone Pants and a wonder blast from distance by the full-back. Walker won't repeat that in a hurry I'll wager. As for 'superstar' Bent, apart from his early off-side effort - close call - he was kept very quiet by our immaculate defence. How many times was Schwarzer really tested?
From a neutral's perspective a draw was about right. As predicted Villa moved the ball out to the wings at every opportunity. Downing was the danger against our makeshift left-back. Hughes understandably switched Baird in the 2nd half, sacrificed John, and asked Salcido to try and shackle Downing. We just about got away with it, and late on the tide turned.
The home fans were getting restless as they realised Fulham had turned up to make a game of it. Petrov and Makoun both faded while Sidwell and Danny got stronger. If Villa took the first half, the 2nd belonged to the Whites. Sidwell did what I asked of him, testing Freidel from range. The 39 year-old has been a fantastic fixture in the Prem for so long now, but he didn't show up well for either goal. That should not detract however from two brave headers by the Fulham boys to make sure they were first to the ball.
Not sure why Kakuta didn't get on the pitch. Felt he could have made the difference late on, especially as Moussa looked a little tentative after taking a whack on his ankle before half-time.
Man of the match honours among the travelling support divided opinion. Sidwell, AJ and Brede all got votes. Top marks though for the Black and White Army, we made plenty of noise and enjoyed celebrating the two goals at 'our' end.
On a bumper weekend for goals and incident, let's end talking penalties. Phil Dowd was at it again at St James Park, penalising Arsenal twice and putting United back in the game. He was on the spot and decisive last Sunday in our favour against Spurs. Tell me this. If the challenges yesterday by Koscielny and Rosicky were deemed foul play, can the referee from Wednesday along with his pitiful linesman please explain why assualts on Brede in the box went unpunished. Does the addition of numerous bodies around such incidents inside the box render officials blind for some reason? A foul is a foul on every part of the pitch. Ref Mike Jones stay behind and write out 100 times.
Hughes is certainly tempering a new mood at the club. No longer the fatherly approach of Uncle Roy, not that Hodgson didn't get results that way. He's stated Bobby is not going to march straight back into the side and that Pants has to work hard for a new contract. He's denied Gera a move away, is not afraid to keep Stockdale on ice, and has really added competition for places with his loanees. Talk about keeping the players on their toes. If Hughes gets it right and results keep improving, we could see Fulham turning into a very steely proposition in the Prem. That's a word rarely associated with FFC since our elevation. Villa fans turned up yesterday, looked at our away record, and settled back for their customary win. We gave them a run for their money. Now let's do the same to our next opponents...Yes, you know who.
COYW - Top 10 finish and a good Cup run is on the cards!
Twitter@fulhamphil
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/02/06/loaner-report-2611/
Loaner Report 2/6/11
Filed under: General — timmyg @ 3:16 pm
It's back!
It's crazy to think that not a single player was loaned out during the first part of the season, as that may be a record for Fulham.
Anyway, Eddie Johnson re-joins the loaner ranks for the third time in his illustrious 3 year stint with the club. Also joining is youngin' Keanu Marsh-Brown.
Eddie Johnson started and played 90 minutes in Preston North End's 4-0 loss to Bristol City on Saturday. He had 4 shots, none on goal.
Keanu Marsh-Brown started and played 62 minutes in MK Dons' 2-2 tie at Sheffield Wednesday.