Friends of Fulham

This game has taken everything emotionally out of me.  IMHO, the referee's decisions significantly affected the flow and outcome of the match.  The converted Cuenca penalty, which was later ruled a foul and resulted in a free kick instead, set the tone for the rest of the game.  Additionally, Andersen received a yellow card for a minor tug on Mbeumo, further demonstrating that the officiating was not in Fulham's favor.  These calls made it clear that Fulham was unlikely to benefit from any close decisions.

Then I'm given a sliver of hope when the referee gives a penalty for Maguire's tackle in the box.  I kept waiting for VAR to overturn it.  The one bright spot is that I'm glad Jimenez keeps his penalty scoring record going.  Add to that the goal by Kevin that shows perhaps he is worth the 40M, only to be silenced by another United late goal. 

Robinson's performance indicated he has yet to return to his pre-injury form, which is disappointing. Given these circumstances, it might have been preferable for Sess to start the match, with Robinson being brought on later to gradually regain match fitness and confidence.

On a related note, Fernandes continues to demonstrate behavior that makes him particularly difficult to like. His actions during the game reinforce my negative perception that many have of him ::angry::

Absolutely gutting

Gutted.

MoTM goes to the ref, I've never seen a penalty awarded so quickly.

Gutted, could have defended better. MOTM not sure

Should have been a comfortable win, which is credit to the overall performance. The defence needs to sharpen up and learn lessons from today though.

Chucky for me, great performance after the week he's had.

Great to see Kevin get his first league goal, brilliantly taken.  I thought Berge was positive all game, and stepped in at the right times. My MoM.

Scoreline flatters United. Won't even bother mentioning the officials because it's taken for granted to be corrupt when you play at OT.

I said Chuck, but it could have been Berge. Really happy for Kevin and hopefully he'll start doing that all the time now.

Not in headspace to really analyse that, but I'm heartbroken by the way we lost. The amount of nightmares we have had v United over the years is so so horrible.

I had about 2 mins of joy following the equaliser then was put right back into a sulk, just like for the majority of the game after that horrendous VAR intervention.

Particularly pissed off with the match commentators who could only drool about Man U the entire game and add in Fernandes being probably one of the most dislikable footballers the league has makes me hate Man U.
I can only wish for carrick to get the permanent job and in 6 months Man U to be back playing miserable football.

That was some dreadful defending by us, and two of our worst players were defenders: Jedi and Cuenca. Have to say, Bassey wasn't much better than Cuenca, letting his man get that cross for the third and I've no idea what Andersen was doing for the third either.

Gutted for Kevin that his first PL goal amounted to nought. Really special goal though.

Oh well, let's smash Everton next Saturday!

Oh, and Chuk was definitely our most dangerous player so he gets the MOTM for me.

Agree, the referee ruind the flow of the game. Not the first time, My solution....VAR needds to go.  It is not cricket, not boring american football etc.  Time allowed, no more than 1 minute to view the stoppage.

They all seem to forget, var was for CLEAR AND OBVIOUS ERRORS.  The only obvious errors here is var itself.

A decidedly odd game where a draw at the very least would've been fair. Very dodgy officials for me, and really biased trumped up pro utd commentary too. Fine we lost, but three wins on the trot for utd and being fergie like is ott.

Good to see Kevin score his first fulham goal, though frustrating the team switched off and gave Sesko so much space.

For me, if VAR did their job properly Utds first goal wouldn't stand at the very least, and it'd end 2-2.

Frustrating match for sure. Will be interesting to see Marcos reaction.

At some point someone has to take VAR and the referee body to task and legally go against their poor and unclear standards.

So fee people genuinely seem to have a clue about what counts these days.

Eurgh

We need a CM who has some of TC's passing ability and some defensive steel, I think we're too soft with Iwobi there, as good as he can be at creating chances. Also think we need a CF in tomorrow as well if we really do want to challenge europe for real because we are not far away from being really good.

I guess we shouldn't be surprised at United getting dodgy decisions at home to us, every time we go away to the big six it feels like a bad joke that it's nailed on they'll get something suspect against us.

Andersen defending crosses is quickly becoming an issue, firstly for Mateta's goal against Palace and the winner today, he's just got no situational awareness of where the danger is and ends up being several yards from where he needs to be.

Wilson for the second week v quiet for me - I know he scored a screamer last week but we need to be seeing more from someone demanding the sort of contract that he is, Chucky for me the far better player and I reckon Bobb eventually takes his place too. Fantastic goal from Kevin and doing that at OT is superb for his confidence and hopefully he pushes on from there.

Hopefully Ali Mac/TK whack a bid in for Ayari at Brighton tomorrow, think he might make a differnce to our midfield and he knows where the onion bag is too

Not sure anyone really deserved it today.

Possibly Chuk for his first half performance.

Went with Kevin, as that was the best moment of the match, from either team and it came from a player that has been harshly criticised by a lot of fans.

Btw, there's a mistake in the graphics. ESR didn't score a goal today, but Kevin did.

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 04:10:21 PMThat was some dreadful defending by us, and two of our worst players were defenders: Jedi and Cuenca. Have to say, Bassey wasn't much better than Cuenca, letting his man get that cross for the third and I've no idea what Andersen was doing for the third either.

Gutted for Kevin that his first PL goal amounted to nought. Really special goal though.

Oh well, let's smash Everton next Saturday!

Oh, and Chuk was definitely our most dangerous player so he gets the MOTM for me.

Andersen was not to blame for that goal, the ball was played behind him, he had no chance.

I've not known anything like it....this sounds like sour grapes - but it's not...

Not only did we have the ref, and VAR against us (where's the 5cm rule when we need it, and definitely not a free kick), but both commentators against us....

On balance a draw would've been fine - but our stats had us ahead....just another day of following Fulham, and daring to compete

How painful was that? We made that game and got b***** all for it. However well played Fulham. Very proud of us.  ::scarf::  ::scarf::  :claping20hands:  :claping20hands:   

WE HAVE TO KEEP MARCO SILVA! 

I voted for Chuk. Good first half performance and, given his bereavement, heroic effort to play at all.

Berge imo

Berge for me. Never loses the ball, played a brilliant key pass to Raul that eventually set up the penalty. Did a lot of the dirty work in covering Fernandes as well.

Yup Berge all day

Berge, bossed it all game

I thought Berge was excellent today, both defensively and creatively. Generally, we were on the front foot all game. It was a risk setting up, but I think not only was it brave, it was very nearly successful. Credit to Marco...I felt very proud of the team today.

Quote from: alfie on February 01, 2026, 04:17:25 PM

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 04:10:21 PMThat was some dreadful defending by us, and two of our worst players were defenders: Jedi and Cuenca. Have to say, Bassey wasn't much better than Cuenca, letting his man get that cross for the third and I've no idea what Andersen was doing for the third either.

Gutted for Kevin that his first PL goal amounted to nought. Really special goal though.

Oh well, let's smash Everton next Saturday!

Oh, and Chuk was definitely our most dangerous player so he gets the MOTM for me.

Andersen was not to blame for that goal, the ball was played behind him, he had no chance.

Don't take this personally Alfie, but that's a shocking take. We had at least two players in the box, to Uniteds one and only, and the scuffed and dragged cross managed to find him so he could take a touch, then finish. Tim and Andersen marking no one. Sure it was played out of his reach, but the point was he was so out of position and not marking, it gave Sesko so much time and space to finish.

Anyway, I'm exhausted, grumpy and trying to study for exams so I'll try and be positive. Thought Berge was great and Sess and Kevin impact was wonderful to see. Andersen actually had a good game just a shame he fell asleep for their winner.

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 04:51:12 PM

Quote from: alfie on February 01, 2026, 04:17:25 PM

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 04:10:21 PMThat was some dreadful defending by us, and two of our worst players were defenders: Jedi and Cuenca. Have to say, Bassey wasn't much better than Cuenca, letting his man get that cross for the third and I've no idea what Andersen was doing for the third either.

Gutted for Kevin that his first PL goal amounted to nought. Really special goal though.

Oh well, let's smash Everton next Saturday!

Oh, and Chuk was definitely our most dangerous player so he gets the MOTM for me.

Andersen was not to blame for that goal, the ball was played behind him, he had no chance.

Don't take this personally Alfie, but that's a shocking take. We had at least two players in the box, to Uniteds one and only, and the scuffed and dragged cross managed to find him so he could take a touch, then finish. Tim and Andersen marking no one. Sure it was played out of his reach, but the point was he was so out of position and not marking, it gave Sesko so much time and space to finish.

Bassey was woefully out of position as well. What was he doing on the wings, and more importantly, where was Sess? Should've been Sess there and Bassey might've been back in the box.

Silva's post match interview was spicy, went in heavily on the ref and VAR for the first half performance so assume that even though he's right, he'll get banned/fined

Quote from: Deeping_white on February 01, 2026, 04:54:08 PMSilva's post match interview was spicy, went in heavily on the ref and VAR for the first half performance so assume that even though he's right, he'll get banned/fined

Man Utd always seems to get his blood pressure up, for some reason.

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 04:54:02 PM

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 04:51:12 PM

Quote from: alfie on February 01, 2026, 04:17:25 PM

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 04:10:21 PMThat was some dreadful defending by us, and two of our worst players were defenders: Jedi and Cuenca. Have to say, Bassey wasn't much better than Cuenca, letting his man get that cross for the third and I've no idea what Andersen was doing for the third either.

Gutted for Kevin that his first PL goal amounted to nought. Really special goal though.

Oh well, let's smash Everton next Saturday!

Oh, and Chuk was definitely our most dangerous player so he gets the MOTM for me.

Andersen was not to blame for that goal, the ball was played behind him, he had no chance.

Don't take this personally Alfie, but that's a shocking take. We had at least two players in the box, to Uniteds one and only, and the scuffed and dragged cross managed to find him so he could take a touch, then finish. Tim and Andersen marking no one. Sure it was played out of his reach, but the point was he was so out of position and not marking, it gave Sesko so much time and space to finish.

Bassey was woefully out of position as well. What was he doing on the wings, and more importantly, where was Sess? Should've been Sess there and Bassey might've been back in the box.

Sess had committed forward so wouldn't blame him but yes, Bassey was equally awful allwoong his man to dupe him and not pull back for the foul. That said, still, one cross, only one player in our box and he's not marked is shoddy.

I'm not dog piling or looking for a scape goat as Andersen played really well. Just really poor for that goal.

Silva's going to get in hot water I reckon but he's right though, no?. If the penalty was given for the tackle which it was and VAR has ruled it out why are they going back for the pull??

On that call, I can't get over the Sky cover up pretending like the penalty was given for a shirt pull rather than the slide tackle to justify the free kick and limit any criticism. Just another reason I think. It's an utter racket.

Raul, for breaking Yaya Touré's previous record for the most penalties taken with a 100% conversion rate in the competition, also for continuing to plug away at it without a break.

Quote from: HillingdonFFC on February 01, 2026, 04:59:47 PMSilva's going to get in hot water I reckon but he's right though, no?. If the penalty was given for the tackle which it was and VAR has ruled it out why are they going back for the pull??

Because it's little old Fulham and we're not big enough that there'll be mass outrage at us getting fecked over by VAR. Doesn't happen if it's the other way round that's for sure

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 05:01:27 PMOn that call, I can't get over the Sky cover up pretending like the penalty was given for a shirt pull rather than the slide tackle to justify the free kick and limit any criticism. Just another reason I think. It's an utter racket.

Absolutely right, Had it have been the shirt pull he would have blown up earlier. He clearly did not think he had got anything on the ball with the tackle.

Chuck was good but Berge for me

I've said it a few times on the match threads, but the only thing that surprises me is people labouring under the assumption that VAR is there to improve the quality of decisions.

It is there to afford the authorities better control of the results. Same with the financial rules...

After that thoughts of what could have been, lacking the final pass on a lot of occasions, pleased for Kevin and his goal.

However- Concerning points, Robinson was like Bambi on ice against Dialo and not his normal self at all, also lacking a yard of pace which is normally his recovery option

Leno - going down early again for the second goal(also last weeks goal against Brighton) when the only place he could get beaten is the near post.

Sadly  after scoring a wonder goal to take us level , we simply weren't good enough to retain the status quo . We fell short because we are not good enough . I hate saying it but it's a fact

I've watched the sequence again. Yes, Sess is out wide covering Diallo after Raul's put no pressure on Martinez who switched the ball to him. Then Kevin's fallen asleep with Mazraoui's first time pass to Bruno. Bassey is way too tight, looked a fool, and doubled down on being a fool in trying to tackle with his nearest foot (right) rather than his left that has a higher chance of deflecting the path of the ball.

Regarding Sesko, it's not that he wasn't marked, in fact, he's in between Castagne and Andersen. It's a position for a perfect cross into his stride for another headed chance (hit the post earlier), but Bruno's brilliance was sending it low and behind the momentum of the defenders.

Despite all that, Andersen still manages to get in front, and with the ball being behind Sesko - there's only one direction his shot can go. Leno seems prepared for a near post shot, yet when the shot is struck, it's not super powerful, but Leno just drops to his knees. Furthermore, despite my praise for him as MOTM, Berge is in a position to at least try a slide tackle/deflection.

So that's a complete defensive breakdown - not one individual. It starts from the front with Raul all the way to Leno being fooled. By no means do I think any player was terrible, but I definitely think there was lack of effort in the wrong moments in each of the goals we conceded.   

My god United fans are the most insufferable of the bunch. You'd think they had won the Champions League.

Quote from: HV71 on February 01, 2026, 05:18:35 PMSadly  after scoring a wonder goal to take us level , we simply weren't good enough to retain the status quo . We fell short because we are not good enough . I hate saying it but it's a fact

Hard disagree. By and large the team was the equal of United and the scoreline flattered them in the end.

Quote from: Matt10 on February 01, 2026, 05:18:55 PMI've watched the sequence again. Yes, Sess is out wide covering Diallo after Raul's put no pressure on Martinez who switched the ball to him. Then Kevin's fallen asleep with Mazraoui's first time pass to Bruno. Bassey is way too tight, looked a fool, and doubled down on being a fool in trying to tackle with his nearest foot (right) rather than his left that has a higher chance of deflecting the path of the ball.

Regarding Sesko, it's not that he wasn't marked, in fact, he's in between Castagne and Andersen. It's a position for a perfect cross into his stride for another headed chance (hit the post earlier), but Bruno's brilliance was sending it low and behind the momentum of the defenders.

Despite all that, Andersen still manages to get in front, and with the ball being behind Sesko - there's only one direction his shot can go. Leno seems prepared for a near post shot, yet when the shot is struck, it's not super powerful, but Leno just drops to his knees. Furthermore, despite my praise for him as MOTM, Berge is in a position to at least try a slide tackle/deflection.

So that's a complete defensive breakdown - not one individual. It starts from the front with Raul all the way to Leno being fooled. By no means do I think any player was terrible, but I definitely think there was lack of effort in the wrong moments in each of the goals we conceded.   

we went all offense at the end. Our better defenders were out.  This is what happens.  We scored. Twice.  But we gave up a goal.  More importantly, VAR ****** us again.

Quote from: SimonDaviesEnjoyer on February 01, 2026, 05:23:49 PM

Quote from: HV71 on February 01, 2026, 05:18:35 PMSadly  after scoring a wonder goal to take us level , we simply weren't good enough to retain the status quo . We fell short because we are not good enough . I hate saying it but it's a fact

Hard disagree. By and large the team was the equal of United and the scoreline flattered them in the end.

I don't necessarily disagree  with what you said but if you can't see out seven minutes or so , at this level , then you will never win anything . We defended badly from front to back

Quote from: Matt10 on February 01, 2026, 05:18:55 PMI've watched the sequence again. Yes, Sess is out wide covering Diallo after Raul's put no pressure on Martinez who switched the ball to him. Then Kevin's fallen asleep with Mazraoui's first time pass to Bruno. Bassey is way too tight, looked a fool, and doubled down on being a fool in trying to tackle with his nearest foot (right) rather than his left that has a higher chance of deflecting the path of the ball.

Regarding Sesko, it's not that he wasn't marked, in fact, he's in between Castagne and Andersen. It's a position for a perfect cross into his stride for another headed chance (hit the post earlier), but Bruno's brilliance was sending it low and behind the momentum of the defenders.

Despite all that, Andersen still manages to get in front, and with the ball being behind Sesko - there's only one direction his shot can go. Leno seems prepared for a near post shot, yet when the shot is struck, it's not super powerful, but Leno just drops to his knees. Furthermore, despite my praise for him as MOTM, Berge is in a position to at least try a slide tackle/deflection.

So that's a complete defensive breakdown - not one individual. It starts from the front with Raul all the way to Leno being fooled. By no means do I think any player was terrible, but I definitely think there was lack of effort in the wrong moments in each of the goals we conceded.   

Agree with most of that other than the genius ball in being genius, off balance and dragged, combined with still, the complete lack of marking. Andersen doesn't even look at any point, where the lone striker for United is. Timmy arguably is watching the man running in late whereas Andersen is just darting into the space but at no point tracking the lone striker. That's shoddy defending, I can't accept any other review of that. Sorry.

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 05:34:35 PM

Quote from: Matt10 on February 01, 2026, 05:18:55 PMI've watched the sequence again. Yes, Sess is out wide covering Diallo after Raul's put no pressure on Martinez who switched the ball to him. Then Kevin's fallen asleep with Mazraoui's first time pass to Bruno. Bassey is way too tight, looked a fool, and doubled down on being a fool in trying to tackle with his nearest foot (right) rather than his left that has a higher chance of deflecting the path of the ball.

Regarding Sesko, it's not that he wasn't marked, in fact, he's in between Castagne and Andersen. It's a position for a perfect cross into his stride for another headed chance (hit the post earlier), but Bruno's brilliance was sending it low and behind the momentum of the defenders.

Despite all that, Andersen still manages to get in front, and with the ball being behind Sesko - there's only one direction his shot can go. Leno seems prepared for a near post shot, yet when the shot is struck, it's not super powerful, but Leno just drops to his knees. Furthermore, despite my praise for him as MOTM, Berge is in a position to at least try a slide tackle/deflection.

So that's a complete defensive breakdown - not one individual. It starts from the front with Raul all the way to Leno being fooled. By no means do I think any player was terrible, but I definitely think there was lack of effort in the wrong moments in each of the goals we conceded.   

Agree with most of that other than the genius ball in being genius, off balance and dragged, combined with still, the complete lack of marking. Andersen doesn't even look at any point, where the lone striker for United is. Timmy arguably is watching the man running in late whereas Andersen is just darting into the space but at no point tracking the lone striker. That's shoddy defending, I can't accept any other review of that. Sorry.

Andersen does in fact look at 93:09 and again at 93:11. As I said, the position of the striker is one where a cross into his stride is perfect and ideal. That's the most obvious and direct choice for someone to cross into. Andersen is there if that cross is played - because it has to be inch perfect. But that's why Bruno is who he is and went against that - playing a ball that throws everyone off with perfect pace that only Sesko can collect.

I have to give credit where it's due, but that's just my opinion - accept it or don't - it's the internet afterall, I'm not trying to convince anyone.

Well, I've discounted anyone who played in the back 4, so that narrows the choice down

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 04:51:12 PM

Quote from: alfie on February 01, 2026, 04:17:25 PM

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 04:10:21 PMThat was some dreadful defending by us, and two of our worst players were defenders: Jedi and Cuenca. Have to say, Bassey wasn't much better than Cuenca, letting his man get that cross for the third and I've no idea what Andersen was doing for the third either.

Gutted for Kevin that his first PL goal amounted to nought. Really special goal though.

Oh well, let's smash Everton next Saturday!

Oh, and Chuk was definitely our most dangerous player so he gets the MOTM for me.

Andersen was not to blame for that goal, the ball was played behind him, he had no chance.

Don't take this personally Alfie, but that's a shocking take. We had at least two players in the box, to Uniteds one and only, and the scuffed and dragged cross managed to find him so he could take a touch, then finish. Tim and Andersen marking no one. Sure it was played out of his reach, but the point was he was so out of position and not marking, it gave Sesko so much time and space to finish.

Nothing personal about it, it's your opinion not going to argue.

A lot of people say we have 4 good centre backs but I think we have 4 average centre backs but not great,Anderson is slow,diop big but lacks composure,Bassey big and strong but seems brain dead when it comes to making a vital interception.When in training videos his play acting is a bit  boyish definitely not a leader of men and the Spaniard we need to persevere to see at the end of the season if he is the next step up,their definitely isn't a leader of men amongst them,and three from the same country in African nations cup is too risky at least amonth a way and a month to adjust it seems more like a holiday away,a club of our size can't have 3 on wage's missing up to 2 months the euro type players seem more professional.

Quote from: SerbianLad on February 01, 2026, 04:15:19 PMWent with Kevin, as that was the best moment of the match, from either team and it came from a player that has been harshly criticised by a lot of fans.

Btw, there's a mistake in the graphics. ESR didn't score a goal today, but Kevin did.

Agreed.

Man of the match Berge for me closely followed by Chuck.
The scoreline did not reflect the play, Fulham showed their ability and quality.
We did give away some soft goals which is so frustrating.
Credit to Fulham for going for the winner after the well deserved and fabulous equaliser.
Perhaps with hindsight it would been wiser with so little time left to settle for a draw.
But when your playing against 13 individuals, with the referee and VAR working in accordance with Sky's hidden agenda, it no longer becomes a level playing field
It turns my stomach to have to swallow this outcome.
But it also shows that we already have the foundations laid of a quality footballing team and that warms my heart.
But also shows that we do need another striker and midfield playmaker to add to our squad to complete the jigsaw.
There is of course room for improvement when defending set pieces and keeping depth, shape and balance in defence which shows we are not the finished article.
Nevertheless for me overall I felt I witnessed a fine performance by mighty Fulham and despite the final score, I am proud of our players.
Football can be very cruel and it does not help when the establishment achieve a result that suits their own narrative.
With certain sponsors complicit with the establishment in achieving this target in the name of greed, which is the only snake that cannot be charmed.

I find it odd people think the score flatters UTD, at no point did they look like drawing/losing.

We pulled it back out of nowhere with some moments of magic from Kevin and Raul, but defensively we were a total shambles.

Also Leno is was poor today on his positioning. I do think we need to start prepping for a new keeper for the long term

Both their 1st and 3rd goals came when we'd relaxed due to what had happened just before. The 1st one we were so relieved it wasn't a penalty and the 3rd when we were celebrating our equaliser. I think we need a good psychologist.

Fact is we have just played 3 shockers back to back, despite picking 3 points last week. We need to improve next week and that starts by dropping AR and probably Anderson

Fair play Matt and Alfie. Will have to agree to disagree on that in regards to Andersen.

I appreciate there's more going on but at any standard, leaving a man free in the box will get you conceding goals, like it did. Just how it is.

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:34:41 PMFact is we have just played 3 shockers back to back, despite picking 3 points last week. We need to improve next week and that starts by dropping AR and probably Anderson

The only players having a shocker today were the defenders and it was Jedi and Cuenca with the majority of blame.

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 06:37:08 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:34:41 PMFact is we have just played 3 shockers back to back, despite picking 3 points last week. We need to improve next week and that starts by dropping AR and probably Anderson

The only players having a shocker today were the defenders and it was Jedi and Cuenca with the majority of blame.

While today you're not wrong...the losing goal had nothing to do with either of them.  And the two did lead to it, have been average all season. (Anderson, Bassey)

Defending in general has been poor this season.   There are too many momentary brain farts happening...players appearing to go to sleep for a second or two when the opposing team is threatening.   Not sure if it's just the players...or below average defensive coaching.

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 06:37:08 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:34:41 PMFact is we have just played 3 shockers back to back, despite picking 3 points last week. We need to improve next week and that starts by dropping AR and probably Anderson

The only players having a shocker today were the defenders and it was Jedi and Cuenca with the majority of blame.

Agree on AR. He doesn't look like he trusts his recovery speed defensively and it is an issue since he has never been that good positionally.

Disagree somewhat on Cuenca. Yes, Cuenca got the better of him down the channel twice. I think that was mostly down to zero pressure on the passer more than his defending though.

Quote from: AnOldBrownie on February 01, 2026, 06:44:31 PM

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 06:37:08 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:34:41 PMFact is we have just played 3 shockers back to back, despite picking 3 points last week. We need to improve next week and that starts by dropping AR and probably Anderson

The only players having a shocker today were the defenders and it was Jedi and Cuenca with the majority of blame.

While today you're not wrong...the losing goal had nothing to do with either of them.  And the two did lead to it, have been average all season. (Anderson, Bassey)

Defending in general has been poor this season.   There are too many momentary brain farts happening...players appearing to go to sleep for a second or two when the opposing team is threatening.   Not sure if it's just the players...or below average defensive coaching.

Well Cuenca conceded the FK for the first and then we couldn't defend a simple cross. Cuenca then moved back ever so slightly for the pass for the second which made Cunha onside. And before that Jedi making an awful clearance for the second.

No longer watch games while Silva is either in charge or plays this horrible slow paced football,so can't comment on the game, however, feel we missed a trick not getting Liam in as coach, or another young, progressive attacking manager. He's been very effective at Chelsea so far, Marco, he's not progressing as a manager or progressing us.

In my view, Marco needs the change as much as we do, but seemingly, no one wants him, so he'll be signing with us again no doubt, saves me £1k a match day so Silva lining and all that

Quote from: Pie n Mash on February 01, 2026, 07:00:29 PMNo longer watch games while Silva is either in charge or plays this horrible slow paced football,so can't comment on the game, however, feel we missed a trick not getting Liam in as coach, or another young, progressive attacking manager. He's been very effective at Chelsea so far, Marco, he's not progressing as a manager or progressing us.

In my view, Marco needs the change as much as we do, but seemingly, no one wants him, so he'll be signing with us again no doubt, saves me £1k a match day so Silva lining and all that

You're chatting a lot of crap. We pretty much matched everything United threw at us today, the only difference was our crap defence. If you look at the stats, we had more possession, more shots, more xG, more everything - except for the only thing that matters.

Quote from: SerbianLad on February 01, 2026, 04:15:19 PMBtw, there's a mistake in the graphics. ESR didn't score a goal today, but Kevin did.

and Sess is missing altogether from the line-up.

He wasn't in the running for MotM but he did get an assist for Kevin's wonder strike

Quote from: Pie n Mash on February 01, 2026, 07:00:29 PMNo longer watch games while Silva is either in charge or plays this horrible slow paced football,so can't comment on the game, however, feel we missed a trick not getting Liam in as coach, or another young, progressive attacking manager. He's been very effective at Chelsea so far, Marco, he's not progressing as a manager or progressing us.

In my view, Marco needs the change as much as we do, but seemingly, no one wants him, so he'll be signing with us again no doubt, saves me £1k a match day so Silva lining and all that

Seriously, are you a Fulham fan ? You can't be can you ? Genuine question.

Quote from: Pie n Mash on February 01, 2026, 07:00:29 PMNo longer watch games while Silva is either in charge or plays this horrible slow paced football,so can't comment on the game, however, feel we missed a trick not getting Liam in as coach, or another young, progressive attacking manager. He's been very effective at Chelsea so far, Marco, he's not progressing as a manager or progressing us.

In my view, Marco needs the change as much as we do, but seemingly, no one wants him, so he'll be signing with us again no doubt, saves me £1k a match day so Silva lining and all that

You're on the wrong message board mate.

If Pie n Mash doesn't watch Fulham's matches how can he comment on how Fulham play?

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 04:51:12 PMWe had at least two players in the box, to Uniteds one and only, and the scuffed and dragged cross managed to find him so he could take a touch, then finish. Tim and Andersen marking no one. Sure it was played out of his reach, but the point was he was so out of position and not marking, it gave Sesko so much time and space to finish.

Below is the position once Fernandes sold Bassey the dummy. With Bassey drawn to the touchline, I imagine Andersen is mindful not only of Sesko but also aware of Mainoo's run. In my opinion, Andersen is not out of position. If he were nearer to Sesko and, thus, further away from Bassey, the gap between them would be even easier to exploit.

(https://i.ibb.co/fK8Jz6f/08.jpg)

And below is the position when the ball is crossed. It looks to me as if Andersen, rightly, is trying to cover enough ground to prevent the ball from being played goal side of him into the path of Sesko. Sesko, however, checks his run at the same moment as Fernandes plays the ball the other side of Joa.

(https://i.ibb.co/9DMXfhS/07.jpg)

Running at speed, Andersen cannot be expected to change direction in an instant. The best he can do is stick out a trailing leg and hope to divert the ball away from goal. The cross, in my view, far from being lucky, is directed almost perfectly into the feet of Sesko, who has only to take a touch before he can get a shot away.

(https://i.ibb.co/jv9KdCBm/09.jpg)

I don't regard Andersen as being at fault.

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:28:53 PMI find it odd people think the score flatters UTD, at no point did they look like drawing/losing.

We pulled it back out of nowhere with some moments of magic from Kevin and Raul, but defensively we were a total shambles.

Also Leno is was poor today on his positioning. I do think we need to start prepping for a new keeper for the long term

I mean, it looked like they were destined to draw or lose when we equalised in the 92nd minute lol

Quote from: Arthur on February 01, 2026, 07:14:30 PM

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 04:51:12 PMWe had at least two players in the box, to Uniteds one and only, and the scuffed and dragged cross managed to find him so he could take a touch, then finish. Tim and Andersen marking no one. Sure it was played out of his reach, but the point was he was so out of position and not marking, it gave Sesko so much time and space to finish.

Below is the position once Fernandes sold Bassey the dummy. With Bassey drawn to the touchline, I imagine Andersen is mindful not only of Sesko but also aware of Mainoo's run. In my opinion, Andersen is not out of position. If he were nearer to Sesko and, thus, further away from Bassey, the gap between them would be even easier to exploit.

(https://i.ibb.co/fK8Jz6f/08.jpg)

And below is the position when the ball is crossed. It looks to me as if Andersen, rightly, is trying to cover enough ground to prevent the ball from being played goal side of him into the path of Sesko. Sesko, however, checks his run at the same moment as Fernandes plays the ball the other side of Joa.

(https://i.ibb.co/9DMXfhS/07.jpg)

Running at speed, Andersen cannot be expected to change direction in an instant. The best he can do is stick out a trailing leg and hope to divert the ball away from goal. The cross, in my view, far from being lucky, is directed almost perfectly into the feet of Sesko, who has only to take a touch before he can get a shot away.

(https://i.ibb.co/jv9KdCBm/09.jpg)

I don't regard Andersen as being at fault.

I think the Mainoo comment is conjecture and has no bearing. How can the gap between Bassey who is on the sideline, and Andersen, who is quite a few yards away from the striker, mean the gap is easier to exploit? Giving the striker more space makes it easier for him to exploit. That's nonsensical to me.

If the ball is played higher, and behind him, then he's still in no man's land for Sesko to head it in, similar to his chance previously so even then the positioning doesn't make sense unless we assume Bruno is likely to hit the first man when crossing into the box.

I agree Andersen, once in my opinion, out of position, shouldn't be expected to get that ball. He already made the fault in never arc'ing the run more towards Sesko leaving the striker completely unmarked. I think Andersen made his mind up that he would try and be the cross blocker and Timmy was marking Sesko with the glances over his shoulder.

For those reasons, Andersen, has the main centre half simply has to get closer to the only man in the box and is at least partly at fault. A lone striker should almost never just be left alone in the box, and we can agree to disagree on that but that's simply a fundamental basic of defending and a hill I'm willing to die on.

The real question for me is before these stills.

Why are we so out of position?

We had spent the previous 15 odd minutes retaining possession with short passes but on that occasion we gave the ball away cheaply.

Quote from: ffc73 on February 01, 2026, 07:38:38 PMThe real question for me is before these stills.

Why are we so out of position?

We had spent the previous 15 odd minutes retaining possession with short passes but on that occasion we gave the ball away cheaply.

Gambled to press for a winner smelling blood. Look, not sure why we're really trying to justify literally no one marking one player, but it cost us, again and has happened quite a bit this season. Sometimes it makes sense with zonal marking, and that's not what this scenario was. It was a collection of errors though, not just Andersen but I'm not going to pretend no one marking Sesko was ok because of a scuffed pass into the box and Sesko suddenly becoming a genius striker for off the ball running.

Quote from: HV71 on February 01, 2026, 05:31:19 PM

Quote from: SimonDaviesEnjoyer on February 01, 2026, 05:23:49 PM

Quote from: HV71 on February 01, 2026, 05:18:35 PMSadly  after scoring a wonder goal to take us level , we simply weren't good enough to retain the status quo . We fell short because we are not good enough . I hate saying it but it's a fact

Hard disagree. By and large the team was the equal of United and the scoreline flattered them in the end.

I don't necessarily disagree  with what you said but if you can't see out seven minutes or so , at this level , then you will never win anything . We defended badly from front to back

We didn't try to see the game out. We went for the win. We were stretched and left low in numbers at the back.

So what we're saying is Bassey should have taken a yellow and hauled Fernandes down

Confirmation on the link below that shirt holding results in a free kick, yea right, you need to tell the other refs:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cy05zk3pz3jo

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 07:02:42 PM

Quote from: Pie n Mash on February 01, 2026, 07:00:29 PMNo longer watch games while Silva is either in charge or plays this horrible slow paced football,so can't comment on the game, however, feel we missed a trick not getting Liam in as coach, or another young, progressive attacking manager. He's been very effective at Chelsea so far, Marco, he's not progressing as a manager or progressing us.

In my view, Marco needs the change as much as we do, but seemingly, no one wants him, so he'll be signing with us again no doubt, saves me £1k a match day so Silva lining and all that

You're chatting a lot of crap. We pretty much matched everything United threw at us today, the only difference was our crap defence. If you look at the stats, we had more possession, more shots, more xG, more everything - except for the only thing that matters.

Defense is quite a chunk of the team, so what your saying is we matched about 60% of them

Quote from: Sgt Fulham on February 01, 2026, 07:21:25 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:28:53 PMI find it odd people think the score flatters UTD, at no point did they look like drawing/losing.

We pulled it back out of nowhere with some moments of magic from Kevin and Raul, but defensively we were a total shambles.

Also Leno is was poor today on his positioning. I do think we need to start prepping for a new keeper for the long term

I mean, it looked like they were destined to draw or lose when we equalised in the 92nd minute lol

When we equalised did you really feel confident of a draw at least......

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 07:53:03 PM

Quote from: demeant0r on February 01, 2026, 07:02:42 PM

Quote from: Pie n Mash on February 01, 2026, 07:00:29 PMNo longer watch games while Silva is either in charge or plays this horrible slow paced football,so can't comment on the game, however, feel we missed a trick not getting Liam in as coach, or another young, progressive attacking manager. He's been very effective at Chelsea so far, Marco, he's not progressing as a manager or progressing us.

In my view, Marco needs the change as much as we do, but seemingly, no one wants him, so he'll be signing with us again no doubt, saves me £1k a match day so Silva lining and all that

You're chatting a lot of crap. We pretty much matched everything United threw at us today, the only difference was our crap defence. If you look at the stats, we had more possession, more shots, more xG, more everything - except for the only thing that matters.

Defense is quite a chunk of the team, so what your saying is we matched about 60% of them

Their defence was pretty cack as well so more than 60%.

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 07:54:36 PM

Quote from: Sgt Fulham on February 01, 2026, 07:21:25 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:28:53 PMI find it odd people think the score flatters UTD, at no point did they look like drawing/losing.

We pulled it back out of nowhere with some moments of magic from Kevin and Raul, but defensively we were a total shambles.

Also Leno is was poor today on his positioning. I do think we need to start prepping for a new keeper for the long term

I mean, it looked like they were destined to draw or lose when we equalised in the 92nd minute lol

When we equalised did you really feel confident of a draw at least......

Yes, the game was there to be won. We were right to commit men to it.

Maybe Bassey should have hauled down Fernandes and taken the yellow.

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 07:21:54 PMI think the Mainoo comment is conjecture and has no bearing. How can the gap between Bassey who is on the sideline, and Andersen, who is quite a few yards away from the striker, mean the gap is easier to exploit? Giving the striker more space makes it easier for him to exploit. That's nonsensical to me.

You're right, it is conjecture. You can tell because I began my sentence with the words 'I imagine...' It has no bearing if I am wrong but does have a bearing if I have imagined correctly. The gap would be easier for Mainoo to exploit.

And despite your dismissiveness of my use of conjecture, you are not averse to it yourself:

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 07:21:54 PMI think Andersen made his mind up that he would try and be the cross blocker and Timmy was marking Sesko with the glances over his shoulder.

And you may be right.

Quote from: FFC1987 on February 01, 2026, 07:21:54 PMA lone striker should almost never just be left alone in the box...

Indeed, but this is one of those occasions whereby the unexpected nature of the dummy sold on Bassey, in my view, led to a situation in which Sesko had time and space without anyone having to shoulder blame.

I appreciate your view and your point about Andersen arcing his run has merit if he wasn't mindful of Mainoo. I agree, however, that we can agree to disagree.

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:34:41 PMFact is we have just played 3 shockers back to back, despite picking 3 points last week. We need to improve next week and that starts by dropping AR and probably Anderson

Believe me, this was not a shocker. It was nowhere near as bad as we played at leeds. I was at both games. At Leeds our shape was lopsided and we created nothing. Today we played very well after going 2-0 down and created several chances, gradually taking the initiative away from UTD. Our main problem IMO was that the ball didn't stick with our forwards. The defence was constantly under pressure in the first half because the ball kept coming back at them with little respite. Our play out of defence up to the final third was immaculate. The final goal was the result of our pushing up for a winner, coupled with some individual errors and a moment of brilliance from UTD.

Quote from: SimonDaviesEnjoyer on February 01, 2026, 08:08:36 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 07:54:36 PM

Quote from: Sgt Fulham on February 01, 2026, 07:21:25 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:28:53 PMI find it odd people think the score flatters UTD, at no point did they look like drawing/losing.

We pulled it back out of nowhere with some moments of magic from Kevin and Raul, but defensively we were a total shambles.

Also Leno is was poor today on his positioning. I do think we need to start prepping for a new keeper for the long term

I mean, it looked like they were destined to draw or lose when we equalised in the 92nd minute lol

When we equalised did you really feel confident of a draw at least......

Yes, the game was there to be won. We were right to commit men to it.

Maybe Bassey should have hauled down Fernandes and taken the yellow.

I think that would have been the sensible option for Bassey

Quote from: LittleErn on February 01, 2026, 08:09:43 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:34:41 PMFact is we have just played 3 shockers back to back, despite picking 3 points last week. We need to improve next week and that starts by dropping AR and probably Anderson

Believe me, this was not a shocker. It was nowhere near as bad as we played at leeds. I was at both games. At Leeds our shape was lopsided and we created nothing. Today we played very well after going 2-0 down and created several chances, gradually taking the initiative away from UTD. Our main problem IMO was that the ball didn't stick with our forwards. The defence was constantly under pressure in the first half because the ball kept coming back at them with little respite. Our play out of defence up to the final third was immaculate. The final goal was the result of our pushing up for a winner, coupled with some individual errors and a moment of brilliance from UTD.

Better than Leeds for sure, also was at both games. Forwards? We only have one, Raul did ok, though his first touch is a bit suspect.

The build up to the 3rd was good from Utd, the shot was average, he only had one option and Leno read it totally wrong

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 08:10:40 PM

Quote from: SimonDaviesEnjoyer on February 01, 2026, 08:08:36 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 07:54:36 PM

Quote from: Sgt Fulham on February 01, 2026, 07:21:25 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:28:53 PMI find it odd people think the score flatters UTD, at no point did they look like drawing/losing.

We pulled it back out of nowhere with some moments of magic from Kevin and Raul, but defensively we were a total shambles.

Also Leno is was poor today on his positioning. I do think we need to start prepping for a new keeper for the long term

I mean, it looked like they were destined to draw or lose when we equalised in the 92nd minute lol

When we equalised did you really feel confident of a draw at least......

Yes, the game was there to be won. We were right to commit men to it.

Maybe Bassey should have hauled down Fernandes and taken the yellow.

I think that would have been the sensible option for Bassey

I tend to agree. In real time I thought Bassey not dealing with Fernandes was the main reason that goal happened. Something similar happened last season at Old Trafford when Cairney failed to deal with Fernandes, probably should have hauled him down and taken a booking to prevent Zirkzee scoring the winner.

Berge, with Chuk a close second.
AR by far the worst. Sess should start the next game

Quote from: St Eve on February 01, 2026, 09:20:09 PMBerge, with Chuk a close second.
AR by far the worst. Sess should start the next game

Agree but not sure Silva will pull the trigger

A very disappointing finish after a superb comeback. It's a shame we crumble so often when it matters....especially at Old Trafford. My ratings/thoughts today.

Leno - solid as ever. Not sure he could do much about any of the goals. Made one very good save against Mbuemo, racing out to close him down. Could he better on some crosses/set piece moments? Probably, but wasn't at fault today for the defensive failings.

Castagne - He's always a worry due to his physical/technical limitations, but thought he was solid today. Stuck to his task well, making some good tackles and making some necessary interceptions. He tried to get forward, but it was difficult with Wilson so far in-field leaving him isolated. He's a limited squad player, but did fine today.

Andersen - Think we probably need a chat about him in the summer, I'm not convinced he's the long term answer. It's difficult because he's generally pretty solid, but when he's messes up it's a big balls up. Completely loses the man for the 3rd goal - same as v Liverpool & Palace. I also think our inability to defend set pieces is down to his lack of leadership. Poor mentality?

Cuenca - OK, maybe less assured than previous games. VAR saved him on the penalty decision, despite getting the ball he rash and beaten by Cunha.

Robinson - Woeful again. Was abysmal v Brighton and Leeds. Clearly he's not recovered from his injury. Looks short of pace, poor on the ball and easily beaten. Amad rinsed him every time. Needs a rest.

Berge - Our best player and one of his finest games. Dominated midfield, musculing out Fernandes and recycling possession. Pushed on too with a ball to Raul for the penalty. My MOM.

Iwobi - Weak in CM, not really the answer despite creative moments. Thought he as a bit wasteful and weak today. Didn't offer enough overall.

Smith-Rowe - Same old story. Some nice touches, the odd drive forward, but simply doesn't go enough for a £35m AM. Constantly seems to play within himself.

Chukwueze - Inconsistent. Lots of ball, but didn't always make right choice. Not sure he was helped by erratic Robinson. Still dangerous, but faded in 2nd half.

Wilson - He's a moments player, but didn't really have a moment today. Always a danger to have on the pitch, but pretty quiet today.

Raul - Another admirable shift from the Mexican. Some good link up, but didn't hold it up particularly well and made some poor passes (including final of the game). Scored another penalty which is a huge plus in those pressure situations.

Subs:

Bassey - Unfortunately will be remembered for allowing Fernandes to turn him late on. Should have taken the foul. Has a much higher ceiling than Cuenca, but he's more erratic overall.

Sessegnon - Great going forward, combined well with Kevin again. Should be starting at LB in future.

Kevin - Fantastic goal, hopefully lift off on his Fulham career. Shame it didn't count in the end, but his connection with Sess is very promising. Helped change the game.

Cairney - Good, assured showing keeping the ball. Still has value for the team. A case to be made he starts over Iwobi/Smith Rowe.

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 07:54:36 PM

Quote from: Sgt Fulham on February 01, 2026, 07:21:25 PM

Quote from: KentFulham on February 01, 2026, 06:28:53 PMI find it odd people think the score flatters UTD, at no point did they look like drawing/losing.

We pulled it back out of nowhere with some moments of magic from Kevin and Raul, but defensively we were a total shambles.

Also Leno is was poor today on his positioning. I do think we need to start prepping for a new keeper for the long term

I mean, it looked like they were destined to draw or lose when we equalised in the 92nd minute lol

When we equalised did you really feel confident of a draw at least......

Yes

My mind was set on Berge, but my heart (and vote) goes to Chuk!

What happened to the 5cm bullpoo offside thingy when we needed it ?

We just played Utd at the wrong time. New manager bounce and all that.

The lads played well enough, not great, to sneak home a point, gutted by the result.  Yet another late goal conceded and losing point from a draw position.  My vote went to Chukwueze, looked dangerous most of the time and team played well when he was on his game.  Iwobi is becoming more and more disappointing to me, lots of poor passes easy giveaways, he was one of my favorite players from last season but this season not so much.  Good game from Berge.  Team still can't do a job defensively on corners, though the first goal conceded was a 'short' corner, free kick.  But we looked dodgy on other corners.