http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_5968012,00.html
Hodgson hails super Zamora
Cottagers chief happy with turnaround
By Danny Wright
Last updated: 21st February 2010
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson was delighted with Bobby Zamora's dramatic last minute winner that handed his side a 2-1 triumph over Birmingham at Craven Cottage.
Hodgson paid tribute to the striker's 15th goal of the season - a superb free-kick that found the top corner of the net - and heaped praise on the player's contribution to the Fulham cause this season.
Zamora netted just two goals last season but he has been revitalised under Hodgson's stewardship.
The goal capped off a remarkable week for the 29-year-old, who was also on target to bag the winner in Thursday's win over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League.
Responsibility
That strike led to team mate Danny Murphy backing the former West Ham man to earn an England call-up, and he added momentum to those calls with another fine all-round display.
Hodgson told Sky Sports: "He's always been a great target player and when he was younger he scored all the goals for Brighton and I think that's why he got signed by the bigger clubs Tottenham and West Ham.
"Last year he did a fantastic job for us alongside Andy Johnson and Andy was the one who was getting more of the goals
"This year he's taken on the responsibility of being more than a target player and also been one of the main providers. I think he's also top of our assists lists and he's also taken on the role of goalscorer responsibility as well.
"You won't see two better goals at Craven Cottage this year than the two that got us this victory today."
The win moved Fulham above Birmingham into ninth in the Premier League - three points shy of the 40 earmarked for top flight survival.
But Fulham will have their sights set higher after a good run of form that has seen them go four unbeaten, a sequence which has lifted them into contention for a spot in next season's Europa League.
The return date with Ukrainian side Donetsk awaits later this week, and Hodgson added that he was happy to take a win off a side that has also enjoyed good form.
Hodgson's side made a disastrous start when defender Chris Baird inexplicably headed into his own-net on three minutes, but Damien Duff's superb solo effort and Zamora's 20-yard curler reversed the tide.
Truly delighted
The performance delighted the 62-year-old, who went on: "We got off to the worst possible start with the own goal but I thought after that the team rallied well and we played some really good football in the first half.
"Birmingham were well organised and resolute, we were unable to break them down and I was concerned as the game went on the fatigue factor would set in more and more and we'd feel the repercussions from Thursday night more and more.
"So I was truly delighted when first Damien scored his wonder goal and Bobby managed to get another wonder goal - that's two fantastic strikes in one week - and win us the game.
"I thought we were good value for the victory, during the 90 minutes we had the better of the play and the more opportunities.
"I've got great respect for Birmingham - they're a very good football team and it was a great victory against them."
http://www.skysports.com/football/match_report/0,19764,11065_3230222,00.html
Zamora stunner sinks Blues
Second screamer of the week from striker hands Cottagers victory
By Danny Wright
Last updated: 21st February 2010
Man of the match: Bobby Zamora cleans up here. Great, all-round display from the once-maligned striker. Superb work rate and an even better winner to boot.
Goal of the match: Had to be Zamora's last-gasp free-kick. Hart got a hand to it, but it was another great hit from the front man - his second stunner of the week.
Moment of the match: Zamora, again, for his dramatic winner. The goal was reward for his display.
Talking points: Can Zamora finally get that England call? 15 goals this season now, should Fabio Capello be taking a look at the former West Ham man? As for Birmingham, were they too negative? And have the wheels come off their superb run of form?
Bobby Zamora's last minute free-kick earned Fulham a 2-1 win over Birmingham in an entertaining game at Craven Cottage.
The striker curled the ball into the top corner from the edge of the box just before the final whistle to earn his side a dramatic victory, punishing Stephen Carr's foul on Zoltan Gera as the game looked to be heading for a draw.
Earlier, Chris Baird headed past his own goalkeeper in the third minute to hand Birmingham an early lead, with James McFadden hitting the underside of the bar for the Blues via the fingertips of Mark Schwarzer.
Damien Duff levelled the scores after the interval with a superb solo strike, before Zamora stepped up his bid to earn a call-up to the England squad with his 15th goal of the season.
Just four days earlier, Zamora snared the vital goal in the Europa League win over Shakhtar, hitting a 25-yard thunderbolt to earn his side the advantage going into the second leg.
And the 29-year-old was lethal from similar distance as Birmingham undid all the hard work which had got them in a position to take home a well-deserved point.
Terrible blunder
With both clubs in mid-table and closing in on the critical 40-point mark, Sunday's contest was about little more than having a say in who would get there first.
It looked like Birmingham would have that honour when Baird handed them the lead in the third minute after his embarrassing own goal.
The Northern Ireland defender tried making amends by setting up a good chance for Simon Davies only for keeper Joe Hart to come to Birmingham's rescue.
Gera almost connected with a hanging cross from Duff and was then blocked by Carr as Fulham pressed for an equaliser.
Danny Murphy expertly weaved his way into the area but was brought to an abrupt stop by Scott Dann and shortly after Davies nodded a superb cross from Gera straight at Hart.
Birmingham were content to hit Fulham on the counter, a tactic that was yielding some success.
Sebastian Larsson had a shot blocked by Dickson Etuhu but more action was taking place at the other end with Zamora hurling himself at two crosses.
Davies failed to connect cleanly with a clever pass from Murphy, giving Hart time to react.
Dazzling
Zamora was applauded for a dazzling piece of skill that saw him expertly control the ball, which he then slipped between his legs before pirouetting away from Bowyer.
The former West Ham marksman fired a well-struck shot from long range but it just lacked the power to really trouble Hart.
Cameron Jerome scuffed a half-chance straight to Schwarzer and in the 57th minute Birmingham were lucky to escape a penalty after Dann clearly handled the ball.
But the equaliser eventually arrived in the 60th minute with Duff driving home a brilliant goal that came just moments after he had been hacked down twice by clumsy challenges.
He weaved his way infield and linked with Gera before taking the return pass and pulling the trigger on a shot that struck the left post and cannoned in.
Only the fingertips of Schwarzer prevented Birmingham from retaking the lead as the Fulham keeper tipped a blistering shot from McFadden onto the underside of the crossbar with the ball then bouncing down and out.
The game was growing increasingly ragged with Zamora breaking free but taking the wrong option - before completing a dramatic finale.
Gera was felled by an outrageous bodycheck from Carr and Zamora thumped home the free-kick in the 90th minute to clinch victory.
Fulham
Team Statistics
Birmingham City
2 Goals
1
0 1st Half Goals
1
6 Shots on Target
4
6 Shots off Target
2
1 Blocked Shots
4
3 Corners
1
10 Fouls
17
2 Offsides
0
1 Yellow Cards
1
0 Red Cards
0
72.6 Passing Success
59.4
17 Tackles
19
76.5 Tackles Success
89.5
56.9 Possession
43.1
43 Territorial Advantage
57
http://www.skysports.com/football/user_ratings/0,19768,11065_3230222,00.html
Fulham Player ratings
Player Our Rating Your Rating Rate player
Mark Schwarzer
Vital save to deny McFadden 8 6.7 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Brede Hangeland
Rock steady 7 6.5 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Aaron Hughes
Solid at centre-half 7 6.4 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Nicky Shorey
Steady display in front of Capello 7 5.9 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Chris Baird
Horrow own-goal but recovered well 6 5.2 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Danny Murphy
Passing was exceptional 7 7.0 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Dickson Etuhu
Lost out to Bowyer in midfield battle 6 5.2 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Simon Davies
Full of industry 7 6.4 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Bobby Zamora
Another winning goal, superbly taken 9 8.8 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Damien Duff
Superb goal, thorn in City side 8 8.1 Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Zoltan Gera
Guile offered Fulham an
Hodgson's Birmingham Reaction
Sunday 21st February 2010
Fulham FC News
Speaking in the post-match press conference following the Birmingham game, Roy Hodgson gave his reaction to Fulham's dramatic win over Birmingham:
"We got off to the worst possible start with the own goal after three minutes," he said. "But to come in at half-time 1-0 down after the way we had played was harsh on the players.
"I knew it was going to be tough in the second-half, as we'd had a tough week and I was worried that we would not be able to keep it going.
"We were fortunate with the wonder strike from James McFadden that hit the underside of the crossbar but otherwise I thought we were really good value for our victory.
"We had more shots, more opportunities and more of the play - we had to dig deep and score two great goals to win it, but we got there in the end."
The Fulham Manager also praised Bobby Zamora's display, as the striker notched his 15th goal of the season.
"Zamora was very good throughout today," said Hodgson.
"He's performing like a true target playing centre forward who brings his team-mates into the game and holds the ball up very well. But because he's skilful he also scores goals.
"Last year he did all of the things we wanted him to do but wasn't lucky, but this year he's added the goals to his good play.
"That's fortunate because Andy Johnson has not been available. Last year when people were criticising Bobby for not scoring goals, I had to balance that out.
"I couldn't argue because he wasn't scoring enough goals, but he was doing a lot of other very good things that we needed him to do for the team."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/BirminghamReaction.aspx#ixzz0gCZRhRGz (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/BirminghamReaction.aspx#ixzz0gCZRhRGz)
Fulham 2-1 Birmingham
Bobby Zamora's fine goalscoring form continued on Sunday when he slammed a late free-kick past Joe Hart to ensure all three point for the Whites.
The visitors were handed the lead somewhat fortuitously early on when Chris Baird headed past Mark Schwarzer. There was little in the way of goal scoring opportunities in the first-half – although Fulham were creating the better attacking situations. The equaliser came just before the hour mark when Damien Duff played a one-two with Zoltan Gera before hitting a left-footed shot past Hart. Bobby Zamora fired home a dramatic late free-kick from the edge of the area to give Fulham the win.
Following an uneventful opening few minutes, Birmingham took the lead in the most unusual of circumstances when Chris Baird, who was under little pressure, headed past Mark Schwarzer on three minutes after Lee Bowyer floated a cross to the back post. In an attempt to put the ball out for a corner, Fulham's Northern Ireland international inadvertently powered the ball past Schwarzer.
Baird went some way to making amends moments later when he blocked a goal-bound effort from Keith Fahey eight yards out. The action immediately switched to the other end where Simon Davies showed exceptional skill to keep his eye on the ball as it dropped over his shoulder and volley a strong effort on goal, which was parried out by Hart.
The goal hardly seemed to change the run of play as Fulham pressed Birmingham, with Nicky Shorey, Damien Duff and Bobby Zamora seeing a lot of the ball in advanced positions.
There were loud penalty appeals from the Fulham faithful on 23 minutes when Brede Hangeland was apparently held down as he attempted to get his head to Simon Davies' outswinging corner.
It was certainly a case of defences on top as the first-half progressed, with nether side really able to get in behind their opponents. Fulham's defence and midfield were doing a fine job of restricting Birmingham's possession to non-threatening areas. In attack, Fulham were able to get into crossing positions with encouraging ease, but unfortunately the final ball was lacking.
Fulham continued to enjoy great success from wide areas and a cross from Zoltan Gera on 37 minutes found Zamora at the back post, who could only put the ball wide on the stretch.
The first-half shots on goal stats told a telling story with Birmingham registering two shots on target to Fulham's eight.
With both teams playing a similar style, the second-half got off to a slow start. Fulham struggled to get their passing game going - largely due to the well-organised pressuring from the visitors. Lee Bowyer in particular was playing a key role in disrupting the Whites' passing play as source.
A vocal appeal for handball in the area was ignored by the referee on 56 minutes. Danny Murphy jinked his way past two players before his attempted chip in the area struck Scott Dann on the hand.
The Fulham crowd soon kicked into life and the players responded seconds later with an equaliser. Damien Duff continued his rich vein of form when he fired Fulham's equaliser past Hart on 59 minutes. The Republic of Ireland winger collected the ball from Chris Baird and advanced deep into the Birmingham half, he exchanged passes with Gera on the edge of the area before skipping a couple of challenges and rifling a left footed shot in off the post.
A thunderous effort form James McFadden on 69 minutes produced a world-class save from Mark Schwarzer. The 25-yard effort from the former Everton man look destined to find the back of the net but Schwarzer trust out a hand and diverted the ball on to the bar. Aaron Hughes duly headed the rebound out of danger.
Birmingham were given fresh impetus following the chance and Fulham had to be at their best defensively as they weathered an intense spell of pressure. As the second-half went on, it became clear that Lee Bowyer's primary objective was to stop Danny Murphy having time and space on the ball.
Simon Davies' involvement ended on 82 minutes when he was replaced by Bjorn Helge Riise.
The winner came late on after Stephen Carr body-checked Zoltan Gera on the edge of the area on 89 minutes, handing Fulham a free-kick. Bobby Zamora stepped up and hammered an unstoppable effort past Joe Hart - sending the Craven Cottage crowd wild.
The referee played an additional four minutes of added time, but Fulham were able to hold out for another three points at the Cottage.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/MatchAndTeam/MatchCentre/Matches/0910/Premiership/BirminghamHome.aspx#ixzz0gCZqiEHh (http://www.fulhamfc.com/MatchAndTeam/MatchCentre/Matches/0910/Premiership/BirminghamHome.aspx#ixzz0gCZqiEHh)
From the Other Side
Sunday 21st February 2010
Fulham FC News
Speaking after Sunday afternoon's game at Craven Cottage, visiting manager Alex McLeish was gracious in defeat:
"We lost because of two pieces of inspiration from Fulham, the finishes were brilliant," he said. "That is the difference in quality that we have to aspire to.
"I didn't feel there was any real rhythm from either team and I felt it was a nothing game until Damien Duff took a hand in proceedings.
"And Bobby Zamora was the big difference. Today, my players had a hard game against one of the best strikers in the league.
"If they are going to step up to the next level, they have to overcome players like him.
"If Fabio Capello is looking for a certain type of forward then Zamora is as good as anyone I've seen at keeping that ball up.
"Like Emile Heskey he's guy who can bring other players into play and help other people prosper without maybe being prolific."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/AlexMcLeishReaction.aspx#ixzz0gCaFYgYt (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/AlexMcLeishReaction.aspx#ixzz0gCaFYgYt)
Season Tickets 2010/11 on sale now
It's been an unforgettable season so far, with the side already recording eight league victories at Craven Cottage, including memorable victories over Liverpool and Manchester United.
And with the Whites just one game away from a Wembley Semi-Final and place in the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League, this campaign looks set to be as memorable as last year's highest ever league finish.
With the ever-increasing stature of the Club under Roy Hodgson, we have launched 2010/11 Season Tickets earlier than ever to ensure you don't miss out on any of the action at Craven Cottage next season!
Season Tickets at Fulham are accessible to all real football fans – and just as importantly these days, it's a genuinely affordable way to catch all 19 of Fulham's Barclays Premier League home games!
New Season Ticket Applications are now being accepted. Adult and Concession Season Tickets for the 2010/11 season start at just £285 , and Junior Season Tickets from just £95 – that's only £15 and £5 per game respectively! We even have a limited number of FREE Season Tickets for Under 8s if requested at the same time as a full Adult Season Ticket*.
Don't worry if you are a Season Ticket Holder looking to renew , your seat is being held until the 19th April .
*Note: these must be requested at the same time as purchase of the accompanying adult ticket. Not available to buy online. Printable renewal and application forms will be available mid-March.
Buy your Season Ticket Now|
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/SeasonTickets201011.aspx#ixzz0gCaaeSIW (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/SeasonTickets201011.aspx#ixzz0gCaaeSIW)
http://fulham.theoffside.com/team-news/duff-shows-hes-mvp-material.html
Duff shows he's MVP material
By: timmyg | February 21st, 2010
That has to be on the shortlist for an upcoming top 5 matches of the season post.
The match started off rather bizarrely, with Chris Baird knocking in an own goal before I even had a chance to dial up a feed. Then for the remainder of the half the run of play seemed like it was an endless loop: Marky Mark throws it to Hangs or Hughes; they pass it up to Etuhu or Murphy who can't penetrate Birmingham City's solid lines and pass it wide to Duff on the right; Duff can't break through either and passes it back it Baird; Baird crosses it into the box and it's either intercepted or just misses Davies, Gera, or Zamora; Brum then clear it back to Marky Mark.
Rinse and repeat.
But things changed entirely in the second half. Duff broke the loop and showed some creativity in creating space to fire a shot low and away. This in turn prompted Birmingham, who had before seemed perfectly content with just playing defense and resting on their lucky laurel, to throw more than 2 men forward. Craig Gardner was brought on and threatened our back line. James McFadden's scorcher donked the post. Birmingham kept huffing and puffing but it seemed like they could not blow the house down and we were headed to a well earned draw.
That is until the final moments of regulation time Bobby Zamora scored a goal that should be on the shortlist for an upcoming top 5 goals of the season post. Much like Duff's goal earlier, Zamora curled it low and away, sending a message to Capello and us fans into a frenzy.
Today did prove that we need to seriously consider Damien Duff as the team's MVP. Why? Of his 6 league goals, four have come from when Fulham were losing. And all four have resulted in a combined 8 points. Here's the breakdown:
Everton (81) tied 1-1
Manchester City (62) down 2-0
Bolton (75), down 1-0
Manchester United (75), up 2-0
Stoke City (61), down 3-0
Birmingham City (59), down 1-0
If we were to take away even half of his production, we would not be where we are in the table. He's quite possibly the most clutch player we have.
Today's result also means that we are still in the running for the Battle for Eighth with Brum and Everton. Had we lost, Brum would have been 6 points and Everton 4 points ahead — both with a game in hand. And instead of battling those two quality teams, we'd be worrying about Stoke and Blackburn. Yikes.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5530
Roy raves over brilliant Bobby
by Dan on February 21, 2010
Roy Hodgson heaped praise on Fulham's matchwinner Bobby Zamora after he curled home a last-gasp free-kick to break Birmingham hearts at Craven Cottage this afternoon.
The clamour for Zamora, who has now scored 15 goals in 32 starts this season, to gain an England call-up is growing but Hodgson's delighted with the performances of a player who endured a testing first season at Fulham last year.
He's always been a great target player and when he was younger he scored all the goals for Brighton and I think that's why he got signed by the bigger clubs Tottenham and West Ham. "Last year he did a fantastic job for us alongside Andy Johnson and Andy was the one who was getting more of the goals.
This year he's taken on the responsibility of being more than a target player and also been one of the main providers. I think he's also top of our assists lists and he's also taken on the role of goalscorer responsibility as well. You won't see two better goals at Craven Cottage this year than the two that got us this victory today.
Hodgson said he was 'truly delighted' with Fulham's application and their spirit to bounce back from the early setback of Chris Baird's own goal after three minutes.
We got off to the worst possible start with the own goal but I thought after that the team rallied well and we played some really good football in the first half. Birmingham were well organised and resolute, we were unable to break them down and I was concerned as the game went on the fatigue factor would set in more and more and we'd feel the repercussions from Thursday night more and more.
So I was truly delighted when first Damien scored his wonder goal and Bobby managed to get another wonder goal – that's two fantastic strikes in one week – and win us the game. I thought we were good value for the victory, during the 90 minutes we had the better of the play and the more opportunities.
I've got great respect for Birmingham – they're a very good football team and it was a great victory against them.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5528
Hodgson: 'We had to dig deep'
by Dan on February 21, 2010
Roy Hodgson felt Fulham were good value for their late win over Birmingham this afternoon but admitted his side had to 'dig deep'.
Fulham were well below their best in a disappointing first half and might have been more than a goal down at half time. The Whites were somewhat fortunate only to trail to Chris Baird's early own goal. Hodgson's team talk roused the home side and Damien Duff and Bobby Zamora scored the goals that earned the three points.
We got off to the worst possible start with the own goal aftrr three minutes. But to come in at half-time 1-0 down after the way we had played was harsh on the players.
I knew it was going to be tough in the second half, as we'd had a tough week and I was worried that we would not be able to keep it going. We were fortunate with the wonder strike from James McFadden that hit the underside of the crossbar but otherwise I thought we were really good value for our victory.
We had more shots, more opportunities and more of the play – we had to dig deep and score two great goals to win it, but we got there in the end.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5521
Zamora steals the points
by Dan on February 21, 2010
You can't keep Bobby Zamora out of the headlines these days. Having secured Fulham a slender Europa League advantage with a stunning winner over Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday, he curled home an exquisite 90th minute free-kick to pinch a precious victory over an impressive Birmingham side this afternoon. His 15th goal of the season would have given a timely nudge to Fabio Capello with England's next friendly against Egypt around the corner.
Alec McLeish's team looked set to end a miserable run away from home after an own goal from Chris Baird gave them early lead. Birmingham had plenty of chances to increase their advantage with Baird blocking brilliantly from the recalled Keith Fahey and Sebastian Larsson, so often the scourge of Fulham in recent years, had a shot stopped at source by an otherwise off-colour Dickson Etuhu.
Perhaps jaded from their European exploits, Fulham failed to find their usual fluency and only really built up a head of steam in the second half. In a dreary first period, passes often went astray and the lively James McFadden was allowed to wander dangerously through a meek Fulham midfield too many times for comfort. Having coughed up such a disastrous goal after Birmingham began brightly, Roy Hodgson would have been to be delivering his team-talk with the deficit only at 1-0.
Blues looked to heading for the crucial safety mark of 40 when Baird, who has been outstanding all season either in midfield or his historically more challenging position of right back, sent an unstoppable header past Mark Schwarzer and into the top corner after Larsson had hooked a cross towards the back post following a mistake from Brede Hangeland. He was in the right place to stop a Fahey shot a couple of minutes later as things threatened to go from bad to worse for Fulham.
The Northern Ireland international immediately attempted to right his wrong by burrowing deep into the Birmingham half and teeing up Simon Davies but the Welshman's shot was well gathered by Joe Hart. Down the other end, Damien Duff scampered to the byline and hung over a cross for Zoltan Gera to attack but the Hungarian couldn't climb high enough to make a connection and then saw a shot blocked by Stephen Carr.
That prompted a spell of pressure for Fulham which saw Scott Dann halt a threatening Danny Murphy run and Simon Davies head straight at Hart after Gera had worked some space to send over a cross. Birmingham were still playing the neater football, with Lee Bowyer, who had settled the corresponding fixture at St. Andrew's in November, to the fore. Larsson had a shot blocked and Cameron Jerome's clever runs were posing problems for the Fulham defence. The striker had earlier almost made it 2-0 with a curling shot that drifted just wide.
Just as in midweek, Fulham emerged for the second half with much more attacking intent. A midfield that had been sitting far too deep now began to take the game to Birmingham. Zamora's clever touches suddenly seemed to be that little bit more threatening, particularly when did brilliantly to create some space for himself with his back to goal 20 yards out, but a repeat of his Shakhtar blockbuster didn't have the necessary power to beat Hart.
Jerome was still a real menace at the other end and made have done better than making a hash of a half chance, before Phil Dowd turned down a decent penalty shout against Dann for handball. The equaliser Fulham craved arrived on the hour mark with Duff demonstrating his quality in front of the Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni. The former Newcastle winger cut in from the right, worked a neat one-two with Gera, and then fired a shot past Hart with the aid of the far post.
Fulham then pressed for a second, but it was Birmingham who came closest to retaking the lead. McFadden weaved his way past two Fulham tacklers and was only denied a majestic winner by a fine save from Schwarzer, who turned his long-distance drive onto the crossbar. Even then, the ball bounced down onto the goalline and away to safety.
A frenzied, open finale looked destined to end in stalemate until Stephen Carr blocked off Zoltan Gera in a central position just outside the box. Zamora, who stroked home a free-kick from similar range against Burnley a couple of weeks ago, was always favourite to take it. Hart seemed to have read the script, positioning himself closer to his far post to cover the danger. But Zamora got enough height and bend to beat the on-loan goalkeeper's despairing dive and take Fulham above Birmingham in the table. The watching Capello could have only been impressed.
FULHAM (4-4-1-1): Schwarzer; Baird, Shorey, Hughes, Hangeland; Etuhu, Murphy (Smalling 90), Duff, Davies (Riise 83); Gera; Zamora. Subs (not used): Zuberbuhler, Kelly, Greening, Okaka, Elm.
BOOKED: Duff.
GOALS: Duff (60), Zamora (90).
BIRMINGHAM CITY (4-4-2): Hart; Carr, Ridgewell, R. Johnson, Dann; Ferguson (Michel 90), Bowyer, Larsson (Gardner 68), Fahey; Jerome (Phillips 77), McFadden. Subs (not used): Taylor, Parnaby, Vignal, Benitez.
BOOKED: McFadden.
GOAL: Baird (o.g. 3)
REFEREE: Phil Dowd (Stoke on Trent)
ATTENDANCE: 21,758
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_5968047,00.html
McLeish backs costly Carr
Blues manager upset at manner of "terrible" defeat
By Danny Wright Last updated: 21st February 2010
Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish backed defender Stephen Carr to bounce back from his error that led to Fulham snatching a 2-1 win in Sunday's game at Craven Cottage.
Carr bundled over Zoltan Gera on the edge of the box in the last minute of the match, with Bobby Zamora on hand to curl home the dramatic winner that dashed the visitor's hopes of taking a deserved point.
The Blues had taken a third minute lead when Chris Baird headed into his own net, before Damien Duff levelled in the second period after his run and shot flew past Joe Hart.
James McFadden was denied by a tremendous finger-tip save from Mark Schwarzer, but Carr's clumsy challenge gave Fulham the chance to snatch all three points.
McLeish refused to criticise the 33-year-old right-back, but admitted he was disappointed to have last the game in such a fashion.
He told Sky Sports: "It's terrible to lose the way we did in the last minute with a free kick on the edge of your box - you're asking for trouble committing free-kicks there.
"Stevie Carr was fully committed and Stevie's cringing in the dressing room - he's upset, he's very disappointed.
"But you know he doesn't make many mistakes over the course of a whole season and I'm sure Stevie Carr will want to bounce back next week."
http://fulham.theoffside.com/team-news/praise-for-our-defense.html
Praise for our defense
By: timmyg | February 21st, 2010
Both the commentators and those in the FUSA chatroom lauded Birmingham City's defense. And they're not wrong in doing that.
But how about some praise for our defense? Just look at the following chalkboard:
(http://fulham.theoffside.com/files/2010/02/Picture-3.png)
Barely a 50-percent completion rate, little presence outside the box and none inside — Alex McLeish will not be pleased.
Our passing proves what I wrote earlier about our offense as the passes form a giant 'L'.
http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/brilliant-bobby-seals-fulham-comeback-match-review
Fulham 2 - 1 Birmingham
Bobby Zamora fired a dramatic late winner as Fulham came from behind to edge a scrappy Barclays Premier League clash 2-1 with Birmingham.
Watching England boss Fabio Capello had left before Zamora struck a magnificent free-kick in the 90th minute to claim his 15th goal in 32 starts, provoking chants of "Bobby for England" - but the Italian will have been impressed by his display.
Momentum has gathered behind calls for Zamora to be selected by England and today's strike will have improved his chances.
The Blues raced ahead in the third minute thanks to an inexplicable own goal from Chris Baird who, despite being under little pressure, headed home a Lee Bowyer cross.
It was a terrible blunder that will surely cause some sleepless nights but it was also harsh on Baird, who otherwise performed well despite being played out of position at right-back.
Fulham controlled much of the match but had to wait until the hour mark for their equaliser when Damien Duff powered home his ninth goal of the season.
Riled by two clumsy tackles moments earlier, the Republic of Ireland winger took revenge by dashing infield, combining with Zoltan Gera before driving home from the edge of the area.
With both clubs imbedded in mid-table and closing in on the critical 40-point mark, today's contest was about little more than having a say in who would get there first.
It looked like Birmingham would have that honour when Baird handed them the lead in the third minute with an embarrassing own goal.
Bowyer sent in a cross to the far post where Baird directed an unstoppable header past Schwarzer into his own net.
The Northern Ireland defender tried making amends by setting up a good chance for Simon Davies only for keeper Joe Hart to come to Birmingham's rescue.
Gera almost connected with a hanging cross from Duff and was then blocked by Stephen Carr as Fulham pressed for an equaliser.
Danny Murphy expertly weaved his way into the area but was brought to an abrupt stop by Scott Dann and shortly after Davies nodded a superb cross from Gera straight at Hart.
Birmingham were content to hit Fulham on the counter, a tactic that was yielding some success.
Sebastian Larsson had a shot blocked by Dickson Etuhu but more action was taking place at the other end with Zamora hurling himself at two crosses.
Davies failed to connect cleanly with a clever pass from Murphy, giving Hart time to react.
Zamora was applauded for a dazzling piece of skill that saw him expertly control the ball, which he then slipped between his legs before pirouetting away from Bowyer.
The former West Ham marksman fired a well-struck shot from long range but it just lacked the power to really trouble Hart.
Cameron Jerome scuffed a half-chance straight to Schwarzer and in the 57th minute Birmingham were lucky to escape a penalty after Dann clearly handled the ball.
But the equaliser eventually arrived in the 60th minute with Duff driving home a brilliant goal that came just moments after he had been hacked down twice by clumsy challenges.
He weaved his way infield and linked with Gera before taking the return pass and pulling the trigger on a shot that struck the left post and cannoned in.
Only the fingertips of Schwarzer prevented Birmingham from retaking the lead as the Fulham keeper tipped a blistering shot from James McFadden onto the underside of the crossbar with the ball then bouncing down and out.
The game was growing increasingly ragged with Zamora breaking free but taking the wrong option - before completing a dramatic finale.
Gera was felled by an outrageous bodycheck from Carr and Zamora thumped home the free-kick in the 90th minute to clinch victory.
Click here to vote Zamora or any other Fulham player for the PFA Fans' Player of the Month Award.
http://www.birminghamcity-mad.co.uk/rprt/mtch/fulham_2_birmingham_city_1_498668/index.shtml
Fulham 2 Birmingham City 1
by Footymad
Bobby Zamora again showed why he is being touted as a potential England World Cup player with the matchwinning goal in Fulham's 2-1 victory over Blues at Craven Cottage.
After his superb midweek winner against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League, Zamora produced another outstanding effort, his 15th goal of the season in all competitions, to consign the Blues to a third successive away league defeat.
Watched by England coach Fabio Capello, the forward worked hard throughout, but had to wait until stoppage time for his opportunity to shine.
With the sides locked at 1-1 Stephen Carr fouled Zoltan Gera on the edge of the Birmingham area and Zamora stepped up to plant a curling left-foot shot into the top left-hand corner, beyond Joe Hart's despairing dive.
The Cottagers' stirring finish was in stark contrast to the opening moments of the game, in which Birmingham went ahead with barely three minutes on the clock.
The Blues were quickest out of the blocks and when the ball broke to Lee Bowyer on the edge of the Fulham box, the midfielder's dinked cross to the edge of the six-yard area was met by Chris Baird, who in attempting to clear succeeded only in heading into the top right-hand corner of the goal.
Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer was left rooted to the spot, while Baird could only shake his head in disbelief.
That goal ended the home side's run of clean sheets stretching back over five hours of Premier League football and Fulham struggled to regain parity for the rest of the first half.
Birmingham's midfield pairing of Barry Ferguson and Bowyer caught the eye, breaking up play and pressing Fulham's creative players, particularly Danny Murphy and Zoltan Gera, into mistakes.
After half-time, however, the home side began to find their rhythm. First Zamora hooked in a 25-yard half-volley on the turn which Hart saved comfortably.
Then Fulham had a penalty shout turned down when Gera's attempted flick appeared to strike Scott Dann on the arm.
Then in the 60th minute Fulham were level after a moment of quality from winger Damien Duff. The Irishman cut inside from the right wing, played a one-two with Gera and speared a drive low past Hart from the edge of the box.
Birmingham had an opportunity to go in front again ten minutes later, when James McFadden's drive from outside the box was touched on to the bar by Schwarzer.
But it was Zamora who was to have the final say, the home side leapfrogging Birmingham into ninth place in the table, having now lost just once in their last 11 matches at Craven Cottage.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/feb/21/fulham-birmingham-city-premier-league
Bobby Zamora's last-minute blast sees Fulham leapfrog Birmingham City
Fulham 2 Duff 59, Zamora 90
Birmingham City 1 Baird (og) 3
Paul Doyle at Craven Cottage guardian.co.uk,
Sunday 21 February 2010 17.24 GMT
Bobby Zamora scored a last-minute winner to give Fulham victory over Birmingham City at Craven Cottage. The visitors had taken the lead in the third minute when Chris Baird headed into his own goal, but Damien Duff fired a spectacular equaliser in the second half before Zamora secured maximum points for the home side with a curling free-kick from the edge of the area. The result sees Fulham overtake Birmingham on goal difference and up to ninth in the Premier League.
Fulham had lost only two of the nine league matches they have played following European ties this season but today they started if still jaded from their victory over Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday night. James McFadden, revolving impishly around the Birmingham target man Cameron Jerome, forced a save from Mark Schwarzer in the first minute.
Fulham continued to doze and moments later Baird suffered his nightmare. McFadden collected a Jerome knock-down and fed it wide to Lee Bowyer, who clipped a cross towards the back post. Baird attempted to divert it wide but instead powered an unstoppable header into his own net.
Conceding a Premier League goal for the first time in more than five hours of Premier League action woke Fulham. Baird, in search of salvation, almost created an equaliser in the 10th minute when he chipped a pass over the Birmingham defence. Simon Davies surged from deep to meet it on the volley but Joe Hart, seeking to endear himself to the watching Fabio Capello, batted it away. Duff then sent a long-range shot just wide and Brede Hangeland headed over from a corner.
Birmingham defended with diligence and discipline, especially through the middle where Bowyer and Barry Ferguson formed a dynamic barrier in front of the centre-backs. On the wings Fulham did occasionally find gaps, especially down the right where Duff was dangerous, but Scott Dann and Roger Johnson constantly repelled the crosses.
Zamora's hopes of earning an improbable call-up from Capello were being thwarted and it was not difficult to see why Birmingham had gone into this game having dropped only four points from matches in which they had taken the lead this season, a record surpassed only by Manchester United.
As the first half progressed, Birmingham looked ever more comfortable despite being entrenched in their own half. A weak header by Davies and another Duff effort from distance were all Fulham could muster before the break. Neither offered Hart further opportunity to demonstrate his shot-stopping ability.
The goalkeeper was required in the 53rd minute, however, when Zamora loped on to a Davies through-ball and struck a crisp shot from 20 yards. Hart caught it comfortably. But five minutes later he was beaten by another player eager to impress his national team manager. With the Republic of Ireland's Giovanni Trapattoni sitting alongside Capello, Duff collected the ball on the right-hand side, swapped passes with Zoltan Gera and fired a ferocious shot past Hart from the edge of the area.
Fulham seemed in the ascendancy but Birmingham soon re-emerged as an attacking unit. Schwarzer saved from McFadden in the 65th minute but was beaten four minutes later and was relieved to see the Scotsman's drive bounce just in front of the goalline after cannoning down off the crossbar.
Fulham quickly regained control and were given the platform for their winner when Stephen Carr took down Gera at the edge of the box. Hart got a hand to Zamora's sweetly-struck shot but could not keep it out. Cue renewed cries of "Bobby for England" from the Craven Cottage faithful.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/match/1351043
Fulham v Birmingham City
Match facts
Sunday 21 February 2010 15.00
Score line
Final score Fulham 2 – 1
(HT 0 – 1)
Birmingham City
Duff 59
Zamora 90
Baird (og) 3
Bookings Duff 63
McFadden 66
Fulham's Percentage Birmingham City's Percentage
Corners 3 75% 1 25%
On target 6 54% 5 46%
Fouls 10 37% 17 63%
Offside 2 100% 0 0%
Fulham Mark Schwarzer, Brede Hangeland, Chris Baird, Nicky Shorey, Aaron Hughes, Zoltan Gera, Danny Murphy (Chris Smalling, 90), Damien Duff, Dickson Etuhu, Simon Davies (Bjorn Helge Riise, 83), Bobby Zamora
Birmingham City Joe Hart, Stephen Carr, Liam Ridgewell, Roger Johnson, Scott Dann, Lee Bowyer, Sebastian Larsson (Craig Gardner, 68), Barry Ferguson (Miguel Marcos Michel, 90), Keith Fahey, Cameron Jerome (Kevin Phillips, 77), James McFadden
Referee Dowd, P
Venue Craven Cottage
Attendance 21,758
http://fulhampatsfan.blogspot.com/2010/02/bobby-zamora-does-it-again-fulham-win-2.html
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Bobby Zamora does it again! Fulham win 2 -1
Bobby Zamora does it again with a late goal in the 90th minute. He hit a screaming shot that went past Joe Hart in the top of the net. Fulham get a dramatic victory over Birmingham City 2 -1. With the win Fulham are now at 37 points. That is the same total that Birmingham City currently have as well.
The game today did not start off very well for Fulham. In the 3rd minute Chris Baird heads the ball into Fulham's net past Mark Schwarzer. Birmingham take an early lead of 1 - 0. To be honest this was the only pressure Mark Schwarzer was under in the first half. Obviously the early goal started the tempo in Birmingham's favor.
Shortly after the own goal by Baird, Fulham started to control the game with some nice passing. However a pattern was showing itself during the first half. The defense of Birmingham City was impressive. They kept moving Fulham back farther.
In the 17th minute Brede Hangeland headed a ball over the net off of a corner kick. Shortly after that try Damien Duff took a long strike again that goes over the net. There is no question that Fulham were controlling the play but they could not get past the defense of Birmingham City. There always seemed to be a blue shirt defending in passing lanes. Scott Dan and Stephen Carr did a very nice job defending.
Later in the half Zoltan Gera made a couple of nice moves. He flicked a ball right to Simon Davies who's header could not get past Joe Hart. Also, Gera had a good run that sent a pass to Bobby Zamora in the box. Unfortunately for Fulham, Zamora couldn't quite get to the pass. This was a frustrating half of football to watch. Even though Fulham had the majority of the ball they trailed 1 - 0 at the half.
The second half began with Fulham trailing 1 - 0. Fulham started to increase the pressure and had a few chances in the beginning of the second half. Bobby Zamora has a left footed strike in the 53rd minute that went right to the goalkeeper. In the 57 minute Damien Duff's cross is again handled by Joe Hart.
Duff would make up for the last opportunity. In the 59th minute Damien Duff scores a goal right off the inside post and the game is tied 1-1. At this point with the game tied the pace changed as both teams had a chance to win.
Birmingham City increased their pressure and started to control more of the ball. James McFadden in the 64th minute had a strike that went right to Schwarzer. His next chance almost put Birmingham City ahead. McFadden had a beautiful strike that hit the crossbar. Mark Schwarzer might have tipped the ball to save it.
The game looked like it would end in a tie. As mentioned prior off of a free kick Bobby Zamora gave Fulham the victory. This was a pretty even game. I came away impressed by Birmingham City. They were excellent on defense and were always around a Fulham attacker.
Fulham should be very happy with this win. No one should be happier than Chris Baird who gave up the own goal in the 3rd minute of the match. Bobby Zamora completely bailed him out. If I was the England Coach I would put Bobby Zamora on my squad. He is playing with tremendous confidence.
Now it is on to the Ukraine. I wonder if Shakhtar Donetsk's manager was watching this match? I would think he must have seen it. Fulham should come into this match with confidence after this late victory. It should be a great game Thursday night.
Posted by Fulham-Pats Fan at 10:49 AM
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7285650/Fulham-2-Birmingham-1-match-report.html
Fulham 2 Birmingham 1: match report
Read a full match report of the Premier League game between Fulham and Birmingham from Craven Cottage on Sunday Feb 21, 2010.
By John Ley
Published: 5:10PM GMT 21 Feb 2010
Bobby Zamora gave England manager Fabio Capello something to consider when he earned Fulham three points with a spectacular last minute free kick.
Capello was at Craven Cottage to see Fulham to recover from an inauspicious start to claim a win after Damien Duff had cancelled out Chris Baird's early own goal.
After James McFadden had seen Mark Schwarzer save an early effort, an innocuous cross from Lee Bowyer was headed beyond the Australian by team-mate Baird, with just two minutes and 11 seconds played.
It was the first goal Fulham had conceded in five hours and 19 minutes of Premier League action. Fulham responded soon afterwards when Baird when some to making amends for his early effort with a delightfully struck pass which fell invitingly to Simon Davies, whose volley was perfectly struck but met by an equally impressive save by Joe Hart, the Birmingham goalkeeper.
Birmingham, who went into the game with just two defeats in 16 previous Premier League games, went close to a second when Cameron Jerome's right-foot volley flew only narrowly wide.
The game fluctuated from end to end; next to force an attempt was Fulham defender Brede Hangeland, from Davies's corner, but the Norwegian's effort was high.
And from another corner, Hangeland appeared to have his short pulled but referee Phil Dowd was adamant there was no infringement.
Damien Duff sent another attempt high as Fulham continued to dominate the first half. A Davies header, from Zoltan Gera's pass, was held comfortably by the stretching Hart, before the interval, Bobby Zamora stretched to meet Gera's cross but sent the ball wide.
The second half produced an early chance for Capello to gauge two potential England players, with Zamora testing Hart with a left-foot volley from 20 yards.
Birmingham survived another appeal for a penalty in the 57th minute when the ball hit Scott Dann on the arm, but again Dowd rejected appeals for a spot-kick.
And Fulham finally got the goal they deserved, just before the hour mark, and watching Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni will have been satisfied after witnessing Duff bringing his side back on level terms.
The Irishmen fed Gera, collected the return pass then dispatched a left foot drive that beat Hart off the inside of the left post.
McFadden was denied a winner for Birmingham when, in the 70th minute, his half volley was touched onto the cross bar by Schwarzer and bounced on the goal-line before being cleared.
And in the final minute, Stephen Carr blocked Gera's run a yard outside the area, from where Zamora claimed his 15th goal of the season.
http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/matches/season=2010/round=2000038/match=2000930/prematch/background/index.html
Fulham need to dig deep against Miners
Fulham FC may have won their opening round of 32 encounter with FC Shakhtar Donetsk, but the home side will hope to use their excellent home record to turn the tables in the return.
A thunderous strike from Bobby Zamora handed Fulham FC a 2-1 first-leg lead against FC Shakhtar Donetsk, but the 2008/09 UEFA Cup winners have the odds in their favour as the focus shifts to Ukraine.
• Zoltán Gera's third-minute opener caught Shakhtar cold in London, but they were on top by the time Luiz Adriano responded (32) only for Zamora's tremendous first-time effort (63) to give Fulham victory.
Previous meetings
• Shakhtar have now played five games against English opponents, and have the record W2 D1 L2. They have hosted Arsenal FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC in previous European fixtures, winning both games without conceding a goal.
• The first leg was Fulham's first meeting with Ukrainian opposition, while this will be their first competitive game in Ukraine.
Match background
• This will be Fulham's 26th game since their European debut in the 2002 UEFA Intertoto Cup, and the second leg of their first post-Christmas UEFA club competition fixture.
• Fulham's record in 12 European away games is a healthy W5 D4 L3. They have never conceded more than two goals in a European fixture.
• Winners of the final edition of the UEFA Cup in May 2009, Shakhtar featured among the last 32 in four of the last five UEFA Cup campaigns, winning three ties (against FC Schalke 04 in 2004/05, AS Nancy-Lorraine in 2007/08 and Tottenham in 2008/09) and losing to LOSC Lille Métropole in 2005/06.
• Shakhtar are unbeaten in ten European home games since a 1-0 loss to Sporting Clube de Portugal in the 2008/09 UEFA Champions League group stage, recording eight wins and two draws.
Team facts
• The first leg was the first time that experienced Fulham manager Roy Hodgson had come up against Ukrainian opposition.
• Shakhtar coach Mircea Lucescu has now been involved in 12 games against English teams – one as a player, two as an international coach and nine more leading club sides. His record in those matches reads W2 D7 L3 (W2 D4 L0 as home coach).
• Both Hodgson and Lucescu are former FC Internazionale Milano coaches. Hodgson was in charge of the Nerazzurri from 1995 to 1997, Lucescu from 1998 to 1999. Hodgson's Inter side lost the 1996/97 UEFA Cup final on penalties to Schalke.
• Fulham defender Chris Smalling has agreed to join Manchester United FC in the summer.
• The winners in this tie will face the victors of the tie between AFC Ajax and Juventus in the round of 16 on 11 and 18 March, playing the second leg at home.
Penalties
• Shakhtar lost 4-1 in their only previous European penalty shoot-out at Club Brugge KV following a 2-2 aggregate draw in a 2002/03 UEFA Champions League third qualifying round tie.
• Fulham have never been involved in a European penalty shoot-out.
Fulham
Suspended: none
Misses next match if booked: Jonathan Greening
Players added to squad: Pascal Zuberbühler, Kagisho Dikgacoi, David Elm
Players removed from squad: Diomansy Kamara, David Stockdale, Andrew Johnson, Joe Anderson, Marcus Bettinelli, Neil Etheridge, Adam Watts
Shakhtar
Suspended: none
Misses next match if booked: Luiz Adriano, Răzvan Raţ, Darijo Srna
Players added to squad: Douglas, Ruslan Fomin, Artem Tetenko
Players removed from squad: Julius Aghahowa, Oleksiy Polyanskiy
Zamora's Golden Touch
Sunday 21st February 2010
Fulham FC News
In form Bobby Zamora once again reminded Fabio Capello of his striking credentials and drew praise from team-mate Brede Hangeland.
Zamora grabbed his 15th goal of the season and fourth in four games, with his spectacular last minute free-kick earning Fulham three points and sending battling Birmingham home empty handed.
Zamora bossed the front line with conviction and assurance with Roger Johnson and Scott Dann given a torrid time.
And Norway international Hangeland may have little sympathy for the opposing pair but as a centre-back himself knows only too well just how good Fulham's number 25 is.
He told fulhamfc.com: "He's a very difficult player to go head to head with. I come up against him in training and all I will say is that I am very happy that he is on my team. He's in great form at the moment and is finally getting his reward and scoring a lot of goals.
"I don't like to talk up players' chances of international recognition, and after all I just watch Fulham. But he is obviously a brilliant player and if I played against England for Norway I'd be worried if he was lining up against me.
"Everything he touches at the moment seems to turn to gold, whether that be a shot hitting the back of the net, a clever pass or knock on. He's having a great season.
"There was a time when we weren't really a danger from free-kicks but you'd back him wouldn't you? He scored another fairly recently and I had a good feeling when he stepped up – and I was right."
Birmingham may have taken the lead on Sunday, but the Whites controlled the majority of the match although they had to wait until the hour mark before Damien Duff – another who is enjoying a rich vein of form in front of goal – fired home with an exquisite drive.
When the impressive Zoltan Gera was bundled over on the edge of the box following Stephen Carr's challenge Zamora did the rest.
"I thought that we did well today, especially when you take into account the fact that we had a really, really hard game on Thursday," said Hangeland. "We did get off to a bad start and we were very unlucky with the early goal.
"But after that I think we responded well and saw a lot of the ball. Birmingham are a difficult side to break down and made life difficult for us. But we stuck to the task and kept going until the end and obviously we got the reward.
"We saw two fantastic goals and Damien Duff and Bobby Zamora are players that are giving us something a little bit extra at the moment. Although I've singled them out I also thought the character and work ethic of the team was first class."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ZamorasGoldenTouch.aspx#ixzz0gCoyCfXl (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ZamorasGoldenTouch.aspx#ixzz0gCoyCfXl)
http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/02/21/bobby-zamora-leaves-it-late-to-win-it-for-fulham-82029-25882616/
Bobby Zamora leaves it late to win it for Fulham
Feb 21 2010
By Jacob Murtagh
Fulham 2-1 Birmingham City
BOBBY Zamora's last-gasp free-kick earned Fulham victory against Birmingham City.
Trailing 1-0 to Chris Baird's early own goal, Damien Duff levelled things before Zamora curled home a 90th minute winner at Craven Cottage.
Birmingham had taken the lead inside three minutes when Lee Bowyer's teasing cross was headed into his own net by Baird.
Simon Davies came close to squaring things up, but the Whites went in behind at the interval.
Fulham had a strong penalty appeal turned down at the start of the second when Zoltan Gera's flick was handled by Scott Dann, only for referee Phil Dowd to wave play on.
But the Whites finally levelled on the hour mark through Duff's piledriver.
The Irishman picked up the ball on the right before exchanging passes with Gera, then unleashed an unstoppable 20-yard effort in off the post.
However, only the woodwork stopped Birmingham regaining the lead when James McFadden's rocket cannoned off the underside of the bar before the ball was cleared to safety.
Fulham pressed for a winner, and they got it in the dying minutes.
Gera was poleaxed on the edge of the box, and Zamora stepped up to snatch victory from 20 yards.
http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/02/21/fulham-2-birmingham-city-1-bobby-zamora-is-fulhams-hero-once-a/
Fulham 2 Birmingham City 1: Bobby Zamora is Fulham's Hero Once Again
21/2/2010 10:17 AM GMT
By Ian Winrow
Bobby Zamora was Fulham's match-winner for the second time in four days after the striker struck an outstanding 89th-minute free-kick that ensured his side moved above Birmingham into ninth.
Zamora had clinched the Cottagers' Europa League victory over Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday with a long-range drive and he repeated the feat in front of the watching Fabio Capello.
The strike completed Fulham's comeback after Roy Hodgson's side had been playing catch-up from the moment Chris Baird headed into his own goal in the third minute.
Damien Duff levelled with a superb run and shot in the 59th minute and Zamora secured the points after Stephen Carr had fouled Zoltan Gera on the edge of the area.
Hodgson was delighted with the way his team responded after the midweek victory over Shakhtar and believes Zamora's continuing good form could win him an England call-up.
"We played really well in first half but came across the resolute defence we expected to find," said the Fulham manager "My concern in second half was that we wouldn't be able to find the power, find the energy and find the legs to really back into it.
"But the players carried on where they left off and I thought we were really good value for our victory.
"And we won the game through two wonder strikes on goal; first there was Damien Duff's magnificent left foot strike and then Bobby Zamora's, so not only did we win but we won with two great goals."
England coach Fabio Capello was watching from the Craven Cottage stands and Hodgson added: "If he believes Bobby can do a job for him I am sure he'll take him.
"I'm sure that today good judge of a player that he is he will have gone away realising that in Bobby Zamora Fulham have a good player. Whether that is something for him as well only he knows."
Birmingham manager Alex McLeish was disappointed not have claimed a point.
He said: "I don't think it would have been harsh on Fulham if we had got a draw. We got a break with the own goal early in the game. I didn't think the two goalkeepers were troubled throughput the game.
"It took a piece of inspiration to get Fulham back in the game from Damien Duff and that is what you need sometimes. It gave them a little surge. Murphy became more of an influence and Bobby Zamoira was a thorn the whole day long. He caused us a lot of problems."
HOW IT HAPPENED: Baird's own-goal handed Birmingham the best possible start and from that moment the onus was on the home side to attempt to break the visitors down. Chances were limited in the first half but Fulham's persistence meant Birmingham were forced to defend deeper and deeper and Duff's moment of brilliance brought a deserved equaliser. The visitors had been guilty of committing too many needless fouls on the edge of their own box and Carr's foul on Gera proved costly.
WHAT IT MEANS: Fulham are undoubtedly on a roll right now with Zamora in the form of his life. With the Europa League return and FA Cup quarter-final to come in the next two weeks, this could be a decisive period in the Cottagers season. Much will depend on whether they have the legs to maintain this momentum, but they are showing no signs of wilting. Birmingham are experiencing a dip after their extended unbeaten run and their resilience will now come under close scrutiny.
QUOTABLE:
We might even see a Fulham player in one of those goal of the month competitions, we don't see that very often.
- Roy Hodgson delivers a broad hint that he will be sat by his phone, getting ready to vote.
FULHAM 2 (Duff 59, Zamora 89) BIRMINGHAM CITY 1 (Baird og 3)
PLAYER MARKING:
Fulham (4-4-1-1): Schwarzer 8; Baird 5, Hughes 8, Hangeland 7, Shorey 8; Duff 9, Etuhu 6, Murphy 8 (Smalling 90, 6), Davies 7 (Riise 83); Gera 7; Zamora 7.
Subs not used: Zuberbuhler, Kelly, Okaka, Greening, Elm.
Birmingham City (4-4-2): Hart 8; Carr 5, Johnson 8, Dann 6, Ridgewell 6; Larsson 6 (Gardner 68, 6), Bowyer 8, Ferguson 7 (Michel 90, 6), Fahey 6; McFadden 6, Jerome 5 (Phillips 77, 6).
Subs not used: Taylor, Benitez, Parnaby, Vignal.
ATTENDANCE: 21,758
NEXT UP:
- Fulham v Shakhtar Donetsk (Away), Europa League 25/02, 1800 GMT
- Birmingham City v Wigan Athletic (Home), Premier League 27/02, 1500 GMT
MAN OF THE MATCH:
Damien Duff (Fulham): Fulham were in need of something special to bring them back into the game and the winger responded in spectacular style, producing a stunning run and shot to cap a hard working display.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5532
Defensive strength and Duff
by Dan on February 21, 2010
Timmy makes a decent point, with the aid of a couple of chalkboards, about how well the Fulham defence did today. That might sound a little odd given the game we just watched but think about it: Birmingham had a lot of the ball and a lot of time in our half, but didn't really test Mark Schwarzer with too many shots. The visuals prove it.
He also puts forward Damien Duff as our MVP ('Most Valuable Player' for those of you not familiar with that particular Americanism) and makes a pretty compelling case:
Today did prove that we need to seriously consider Damien Duff as the team's MVP. Why? Of his 6 league goals, four have come from when Fulham were losing. And all four have resulted in a combined 8 points. Here's the breakdown:
Everton (81) tied 1-1
Manchester City (62) down 2-0
Bolton (75), down 1-0
Manchester United (75), up 2-0
Stoke City (61), down 3-0
Birmingham City (59), down 1-0
I'd still think Zamora's got to up there for that honour but MVP's obviously a different category to player of the season. It's an interesting debate.
Fulham 2 Birmingham 1: Bobby Zamora struck in injury time as Cottages come from a goal down to beat the Blues
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 5:55 PM on 21st February 2010
Bobby Zamora fired a dramatic late winner as Fulham came from behind to edge a scrappy Barclays Premier League clash with Birmingham.
Watching England boss Fabio Capello had left before Zamora struck a magnificent free-kick in the 90th minute to claim his 15th goal in 32 starts, provoking chants of 'Bobby for England' - but the Italian will have been impressed by his display.
Momentum has gathered behind calls for Zamora to be selected by England and today's strike will have improved his chances.
Match Facts
Fulham
Mark Schwarzer, Brede Hangeland, Chris Baird, Nicky Shorey, Aaron Hughes, Zoltan Gera, Danny Murphy (Chris Smalling, 90), Damien Duff, Dickson Etuhu, Simon Davies (Bjorn Helge Riise, 83), Bobby Zamora
Birmingham City
Joe Hart, Stephen Carr, Liam Ridgewell, Roger Johnson, Scott Dann, Lee Bowyer, Sebastian Larsson (Craig Gardner, 68), Barry Ferguson, Keith Fahey, Cameron Jerome (Kevin Phillips, 77), James McFadden
The Blues raced ahead in the third minute thanks to an inexplicable own goal from Chris Baird who, despite being under little pressure, headed home a Lee Bowyer cross.
It was a terrible blunder that will surely cause some sleepless nights but it was also harsh on Baird, who otherwise performed well despite being played out of position at right-back.
Fulham controlled much of the match but had to wait until the hour mark for their equaliser when Damien Duff powered home his ninth goal of the season.
Riled by two clumsy tackles moments earlier, the Republic of Ireland winger took revenge by dashing infield, combining with Zoltan Gera before driving home from the edge of the area.
With both clubs imbedded in mid-table and closing in on the critical 40-point mark, today's contest was about little more than having a say in who would get there first.
It looked like Birmingham would have that honour when Baird handed them the lead in the third minute with an embarrassing own goal.
Bowyer sent in a cross to the far post where Baird directed an unstoppable header past Schwarzer into his own net.
The Northern Ireland defender tried making amends by setting up a good chance for Simon Davies only for keeper Joe Hart to come to Birmingham's rescue.
Gera almost connected with a hanging cross from Duff and was then blocked by Stephen Carr as Fulham pressed for an equaliser.
Danny Murphy expertly weaved his way into the area but was brought to an abrupt stop by Scott Dann and shortly after Davies nodded a superb cross from Gera straight at Hart.
Birmingham were content to hit Fulham on the counter, a tactic that was yielding some success.
Sebastian Larsson had a shot blocked by Dickson Etuhu but more action was taking place at the other end with Zamora hurling himself at two crosses.
Davies failed to connect cleanly with a clever pass from Murphy, giving Hart time to react.
Zamora was applauded for a dazzling piece of skill that saw him expertly control the ball, which he then slipped between his legs before pirouetting away from Bowyer.
The former West Ham marksman fired a well-struck shot from long range but it just lacked the power to really trouble Hart.
Cameron Jerome scuffed a half-chance straight to Schwarzer and in the 57th minute Birmingham were lucky to escape a penalty after Dann clearly handled the ball.
But the equaliser eventually arrived in the 60th minute with Duff driving home a brilliant goal that came just moments after he had been hacked down twice by clumsy challenges.
He weaved his way infield and linked with Gera before taking the return pass and pulling the trigger on a shot that struck the left post and cannoned in.
Only the fingertips of Schwarzer prevented Birmingham from retaking the lead as the Fulham keeper tipped a blistering shot from James McFadden onto the underside of the crossbar with the ball then bouncing down and out.
The game was growing increasingly ragged with Zamora breaking free but taking the wrong option - before completing a dramatic finale.
Gera was felled by an outrageous bodycheck from Carr and Zamora thumped home the free-kick in the 90th minute to clinch victory.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1252694/Fulham-2-Birmingham-1-Bobby-Zamora-struck-injury-time-Cottages-come-goal-beat-Blues.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0gCsaZS1O (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1252694/Fulham-2-Birmingham-1-Bobby-Zamora-struck-injury-time-Cottages-come-goal-beat-Blues.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0gCsaZS1O)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_5966305,00.html
Shorey eyes England recall
Defender also shocked by Fulham switch
Last updated: 21st February 2010
Nicky Shorey has set his sights on a shock return to the England squad for the World Cup.
The full-back is currently on loan at Fulham after failing to hold down a regular place in the Aston Villa side under Martin O'Neill.
The former Reading ace joined Fulham on transfer deadline day after a successful loan spell at Nottingham Forest and he admits he was surprised to make the move to West London.
"There's nothing worse than not playing. I really loved my time at Forest and was looking forward to going back when this move came out of nowhere," said Shorey.
Shorey, who won two caps for England three years ago, has impressed at Craven Cottage and he admits he would jump at the chance of being in the England squad for this summer's World Cup finals.
"I've played for England before and I enjoyed it but I'll leave that for other people to talk about. I've two caps and it's great to play for your country," added Shorey.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5517
Hodgson's secret: hard work
by Dan on February 21, 2010
There's no glitz and glamour on the training pitches at Motspur Park. We've heard it before, but Simon Davies rather reinforces the point in an interesting article in the Independent on Sunday – Roy Hodgson's secret is good old-fashioned graft.
Every day in training is geared towards team shape on the match-day coming up. I've been working with the manager three years now and every day is team shape, and it shows. We have a little laugh about it now and again, but when he came in we were fighting relegation and now we're in the Europa League, so you take it.
I don't want to give any secrets away, but he gets the 11 that he wants on a match-day and he drills everything in that he wants. It's certain drills defensive, certain drills attacking, and we work very hard at it. There are no diagrams. It's all on the pitch with the ball, nothing unopposed.
We do a lot of work after every game on analysis, sorting the bad things out, sorting the good things out. It's nice to know what you work hard on works so well. We're two-and-a-half years down the line now, so we're all converted; it's just working on little things now and hoping we can still get better.
Davies points to the goalscoring form of Bobby Zamora as a real bonus too.
Last year, playing with him you could see what he brought to the team but maybe only playing could you appreciate that. This year, he's absolutely on fire.
Jonathan Wilson also digs out a wonderful quote from Swedish academic Tomas Peterson on Hodgson's influence at Halmstad.
[Hodgson] threaded together a number of principles, which could be used in a series of combinations and compositions, and moulded them into an organic totality – an indivisible project about how to play football. Every moment of the match was theorised, and placed as an object lesson for training-teaching, and was looked at in a totality.
http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/match_reports/premier_league/733627/FULHAM-v-BIRMINGHAM-BOBBY-DAZZLER-IN-FRONT-OF-CAPELLO.html
BOBBY DAZZLER IN FRONT OF CAPELLO
Fulham 2 Birmingham 1
21/02/2010
Well, Fabio Capello was at Craven Cottage to get a first-hand look at the Fulham striker.
And he didn't disappoint, smashing home an injury-time free-kick to complete a fine turnaround by Roy Hodgson's men.
Birmingham led early on through Chris Baird's own goal after only three minutes. Damien Duff equalised to allow Zamora to take centre stage again after his spectacular winner in midweek against Shakhtar Donetsk.
Right-back Baird's error was inexcusable as he headed a harmless Lee Bowyer cross past Mark Schwarzer to gift the Midlanders the perfect start.
Duff has been an excellent acquisition for Fulham and he bagged his ninth goal of the season when linking up with Zoltan Gera before flashing home a firm drive past Joe Hart.
Birmingham played mainly on the counter-attack as the home side were on top but unable to find a way past Hart.
Scott Dann was lucky not to concede a penalty when handling after 57 minutes but Duff fired in off a post to haul the Cottagers level.
Birmingham responded well and almost regained the lead when James McFadden's piledriver was tipped onto the underside of the bar by Schwarzer.
It was a let-off for the West Londoners and they took full advantage when Stephen Carr fouled Gera and Zamora decided to show Capello just what he's all about.
The much-maligned marksman made it 15 for the season with an unstoppable free-kick that could earn him a call-up for the friendly with Egypt next month.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2862158/Fulham-2-Birmingham-1.html
Fulham 2 Birmingham 1
FUL OF PROMISE ... England hopeful Bobby Zamora nets Fulham's winner
Published: Today
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BOBBY ZAMORA's last-gasp free-kick sealed Fulham's spirited recovery as they came from behind to beat Birmingham at Craven Cottage.
Zamora's goal in the first minute of added time put the Cottagers ahead for the first time in the match.
It followed a drive on the hour by Damien Duff that had brought the hosts level, after an early howler handed Birmingham the lead.
Duff's equaliser cancelled out Chris Baird's spectacular third-minute own goal.
Baird was under little pressure but the Northern Ireland international met Lee Bowyer's cross with an unstoppable header that flew past Mark Schwarzer.
After that Birmingham chose to play on the counter, as Fulham searched for an equaliser.
Baird tried making amends by setting up a good chance for Simon Davies, only for keeper Joe Hart to come to the Blues' rescue.
Fulham kept up the pressure, as first Zoltan Gera almost connected with a hanging cross from Duff and then Danny Murphy's run was stopped in the box by Scott Dann.
As Birmingham broke, Sebastian Larsson had a shot blocked by Dickson Etuhu, but in truth the action was taking place at the other end with Zamora hurling himself at two crosses.
Fulham went into the break well in control but behind.
They continued to dominate at the start of the second half, with Zamora firing a shot from long range that failed to trouble Hart.
Brum striker Cameron Jerome then scuffed a half-chance straight to Schwarzer and in the 57th minute the visitors were lucky to survive a penalty appeal after Dann clearly handled the ball.
But the equaliser eventually came around the hour mark, as Duff drove home moments after being hacked down by two clumsy challenges.
The Irish star weaved his way infield and linked with Zoltan Gera before taking the return pass and firing a shot that struck the left post and cannoned in.
Birmingham came close to retaking the lead but Fulham keeper Schwarzer managed to tip a blistering shot from James McFadden onto the underside of the crossbar, with the ball then bouncing down and out.
Late on Zamora capitalised on a foul conceded by Stephen Carr to fire into the top left corner of the goal and give rise to chants of 'Bobby for England' in front of the watching Fabio Capello.
Fulham: Schwarzer, Baird, Hughes, Hangeland, Shorey, Davies (Riise 83), Etuhu, Murphy, Duff, Gera, Zamora. Subs not used: Zuberbuhler, Kelly, Okaka, Smalling, Greening, Elm. Booked: Duff
Goals: Duff (59), Zamora (90)
Birmingham: Hart, Carr, Dann, Johnson, Ridgewell, Fahey, Bowyer, Ferguson (Michel 90), Larsson (Gardner 68), McFadden, Jerome (Phillips 77). Subs not used: Taylor, Benitez, Parnaby, Vignal. Booked: McFadden
Goals: Baird (og) 3
Attendance: 21,758
Referee: Phil Dowd
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/article7035432.ece
Fabio Capello misses Bobby Zamora's late party piece to win match for Fulham
Fulham 2 Birmingham 1
Nick Szczepanik, Craven Cottage
Fabio Capello left too early. The England manager went to Craven Cottage yesterday to see Bobby Zamora, of Fulham, and Joe Hart, of Birmingham City, but had departed by the time Zamora curled an 18-yard free kick past Hart to win the match.
The buzz as Zamora stepped up in the final minute, showed how far he has advanced in the regard of the home fans since he was barracked by some for a perceived inability to hit the net. This was his fifteenth goal of the campaign in all competitions, although only his eighth in the Barclays Premier League.
"Last year he wasn't lucky in front of goal but this year he's added the goals to his good play," Roy Hodgson, the Fulham manager, said. "Forwards are judged on what they do in the penalty area, but we as coaches have to go beyond that. I think Fabio Capello would have been impressed, good judge of a player that he is."
Even though he missed the goal? "We have wall-to-wall coverage of Premier League matches these days, so if you miss a goal that was scored at the weekend, you live on another planet," Hodgson said.
Before that, it looked as if two Irishmen would make the headlines. Chris Baird, of Northern Ireland, guaranteed his inclusion in every compilation of this season's bloopers when he headed Lee Bowyer's cross firmly into his own net after three minutes.
In contrast, Damien Duff, the Ireland winger, drew Fulham level with a goal-of-the month contender, a left-foot strike that went in off the inside of Hart's right-hand post after an exchange of passes with Zoltan Gera.
Ten minutes later Birmingham hit the woodwork when James McFadden's 25-yard shot was fingertipped on to the underside of the crossbar by Mark Schwarzer, but Fulham raised the tempo despite Thursday's strenuous workout against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League.
Nevertheless, Birmingham seemed to have done enough until Stephen Carr fouled Gera and Zamora swerved his shot around the wall and high past Hart's right hand to condemn Birmingham to a fifth defeat in as many visits to London this season.
Fulham (4-4-1-1): M Schwarzer 7 — C Baird 6, A Hughes 6, B Hangeland 5, N Shorey 6 — D Duff 8, D Murphy 6 (sub: C Smalling, 90min), D Etuhu 6, S Davies 5 (sub: B H Riise, 83) — Z Gera 7 — R Zamora 7. Substitutes not used: P Zuberbühler, S Kelly, S Okaka, J Greening, D Elm. Booked: Duff. Next: Sunderland (a).
Birmingham City (4-4-2): J Hart 6 — S Carr 6, S Dann 6, R Johnson 6, L Ridgewell 6 — S Larsson 5 (sub: C Gardner, 68 5), L Bowyer 6, B Ferguson 7 (sub: Michel, 90), K Fahey 5 — J McFadden 7, C Jerome 5 (sub: K Phillips, 77). Substitutes not used: M Taylor, C Benítez, S Parnaby, G Vignal. Booked: McFadden. Next: Wigan Athletic (h).
Referee: P Dowd. Attendance: 21,758.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8518123.stm
Fulham 2 - 1 Birmingham
By Ian Hughes
Bobby Zamora curled in a late free-kick to earn Fulham a come-from-behind win.
Birmingham were gifted the opening goal when Chris Baird headed into his own net from Lee Bowyer's right-wing cross.
Baird then blocked superbly from Keith Fahey before Damien Duff played a one-two with Zoltan Gera and smashed a 20-yard shot in off the post to equalise.
Mark Schwarzer superbly tipped James McFadden's 25-yard shot on to the bar but Fulham snatched victory when Zamora put his free-kick into the top corner.
It was a result that had looked unlikely after the opening half, where Fulham struggled to shake of the effects of having played in the Europa League on Thursday.
And Birmingham, having been given an early advantage after Baird's error, appeared able to comfortably keep their opponents at arm's length.
A win for Birmingham would have taken them to the landmark total of 40 points and would have virtually guaranteed their Premier League status for next season.
And throughout the first half it seemed that outcome was inevitable as a Fulham appeared jaded and short of ideas.
Instead, Birmingham will leave London wondering how they managed to take nothing from the capital again - as they had done in their previous four visits.
They will look back at the tremendous save from Schwarzer that kept McFadden's shot out, but credit must be given to Fulham for raising their game and overcoming a truly dreadful start.
Baird, too, will be mightily relieved after his error of misjudgement that saw him thump a header into the top corner of his own goal after only three minutes.
606: DEBATE
Fulham are a good team but we should have hung on for at least a draw
BluenoseBurch
The former Southampton defender went some way to atone for his mistake when he brilliantly blocked Fahey's shot as the visitors pressed to double their advantage.
Birmingham went on to largely control the opening half as Fulham looked well below par.
The hosts did threaten twice, but Joe Hart was easily equal to a volley and, later, a header from Simon Davies.
Fulham improved after the break and as a result they began to push Birmingham back.
And as the visitors defended from deep, they invited Duff on to their cost when the winger cut in from the right, exchanged passes with Gera and cracked home a belting shot.
That sparked a spell of pressure for Fulham, although they were unable to create clear chances.
And they nearly succumbed to a rare counter-attack from Birmingham when McFadden came inches away from making it 2-1.
As the final whistle approached it seemed the two sides - who started the match adjacent to each other in the mid-section of the table - would not be separated.
Zamora was the difference - McLeish
But Zamora, under the gaze of England manager Fabio Capello in the stands, expertly curled home a 20-yard free-kick to earn his side victory.
The goal - Zamora's 15th goal in 32 starts - will give Capello food for thought ahead of the World Cup, while it also saw Fulham leapfrog Birmingham in the table.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson:
"We got off to the worst possible start with the own goal aftrr three minutes. But to come in at half-time 1-0 down after the way we had played was harsh on the players.
I knew it was going to be tough in the second half, as we'd had a tough week and I was worried that we would not be able to keep it going.
"We were fortunate with the wonder strike from James McFadden that hit the underside of the crossbar but otherwise I thought we were really good value for our victory.
"We had more shots, more opportunities and more of the play - we had to dig deep and score two great goals to win it, but we got there in the end."
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish:
"We lost because of two pieces of inspiration from Fulham, the finishes were brilliant. That is the difference in quality that we have to aspire to.
"I didn't feel there was any real rhythm from either team and I felt it was a nothing game until Damien Duff took a hand in proceedings.
"And Bobby Zamora was the big difference. Today, my players had a hard game against one of the best strikers in the league.
"If they are going to step up to the next level, they have to overcome players like him."
Live text and stats
Sunday, 21 February 2010
Premier League
Home Team Score Away Team Time
Fulham 2-1 Birmingham R
(HT 0-1)
Duff 59
Zamora 90+1
Baird (og) 3
Hide team line-ups and match stats
Fulham
01 Schwarzer
05 Hangeland
06 Baird
07 Shorey
18 Hughes
11 Gera
13 Murphy (Smalling 90+3)
16 Duffyellow card
20 Etuhu
29 Davies (Riise 83)
25 Zamora
Substitutes
19 Zuberbuhler, 02 Kelly, 26 Smalling, 17 Riise, 27 Greening, 09 Okaka Chuka, 35 Elm Birmingham
25 Hart
02 Carr
06 Ridgewell
14 Johnson
15 Dann
04 Bowyer
07 Larsson (Gardner 68)
12 Ferguson (Marcos Madera 90+1)
18 Fahey
10 Jerome (Phillips 77)
16 McFaddenyellow card
Substitutes
01 Taylor, 21 Parnaby, 27 Gregory Vignal, 17 Marcos Madera, 33 Gardner, 09 Phillips, 11 Benitez Ref: Dowd
Att: 21,758
FULHAMBIRMINGHAMPossession
Fulham 52% Birmingham 48% Attempts on target
Fulham 6 Birmingham 7 Attempts off target
Fulham 5 Birmingham 3 Corners
Fulham 3 Birmingham 1 Fouls
Fulham 9 Birmingham 16
http://www.101greatgoals.com/videodisplay/4826329/ (http://www.101greatgoals.com/videodisplay/4826329/)
http://www.footytube.com/video/fulham-v-birmingham-city-34997 (http://www.footytube.com/video/fulham-v-birmingham-city-34997)
Fulham v Bolton / Spurs
FA Cup
Saturday 6 March
Kick-Off 17:20
Fulham's FA Cup Quarter-Final clash against either Bolton Wanderers or Tottenham Hotspur at the Cottage will be played on Saturday 6th March. The game will kick-off at 5.20pm and will be shown live on ITV1 . Tickets are now on General Sale.
On-sale dates
Season Ticket Holders on sale (max 4 tickets)
Fulham Club Members on sale (4 tickets)
General Sale on sale (4 tickets)
Season Ticket Holders who are on the Home Cup Tie Scheme will automatically have their ticket loaded onto their Season Ticket Access Card.
Can Season Ticket Holders on the Cup Scheme please inform the Ticket Office on 0870 442 1234 opt 3 if their credit card has recently changed so details can be updated.
Buy tickets now|
Advance booking prices
Adults £25
Concessions (over 65 and under 21s) £15
Juniors (under 16) £10
Matchday price
Adults £30
Concs (over 65 and under 21s) £20
Juniors (under 16) £15
How to Buy Tickets
buy tickets online - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day. Save on booking fees by booking online*
by phone on 0870 442 1234 (option 1) - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day
in person from the Ticket Office: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; non-match day Sat 10am-12pm
by fax 0207 384 4810 (download printable form )
by postal application to FFC Ticket Office, Stevenage Road, Fulham, SW6 6HH enclosing a stamped addressed envelope (download printable form )
Seatwave - the official fan-to-fan ticket exchange
Thomas Cook - match breaks for all Fulham FC home games
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/FACup6thRound.aspx#ixzz0gHPuW2fh (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/FACup6thRound.aspx#ixzz0gHPuW2fh)
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/DuffInterview.aspx
Duff Looking Up
Monday 22nd February 2010
Fulham FC News
Damien Duff scored his sixth league goal of the season on Sunday as the Whites fought back for a vital three points, but the Republic of Ireland international was quick to share the plaudits.
Roy Hodgson hailed Duff's 59th minute equaliser against Birmingham City as a 'wonder strike' while team-mates praised the 30-year-old's contribution since his arrival from Newcastle United in August.
Seemingly enjoying a new lease of life at Craven Cottage, Duff has impressed with his ability to retain possession, whilst his directness down the flank has given Fulham an added dimension this season.
His second goal of February and his eighth in all competitions for the Whites also underlined his importance in front of goal, with his brilliant drive doing much for our cause against Birmingham.
He told fulhamfc.com: "The goal was alright but it was more important that the Team managed to get back into the game more than myself adding to my goals tally. Whoever scored it was an important goal.
"Of course, it is always nice to score and as we know Bobby [Zamora] went on to score the winner which made it a good day for us. They [Birmingham] are a good side and when they go in front like they did against us they usually don't let that lead slip – so that made the victory very satisfying."
The three points were even more rewarding considering last week's UEFA Europa League exertions with the game against Shakhtar Donetsk testing the squad's strength and character.
"I think the team spirit and desire is there for all to see," said Duff. "That was the case last Thursday and again on Sunday. The two games were very different; Shakhtar, as everyone will agree, were a fantastic footballing side – one of the best perhaps - and moved the ball around very nicely, whilst the match with Birmingham was more of a physical battle.
"Despite the efforts in midweek I thought we looked energetic enough, it has been a tough week for us because not long before that game we also played in the FA Cup. I think we can be very pleased with how we have played."
Inside eight days, Fulham ran out in the league and in two major cup competitions with Sunday's win moving the Whites into ninth and three points off that 40-point marker – all of which makes for positive reading.
"When I signed I hadn't thought too much about what could be achieved this season," reflected Duff. "I just wanted to get back and enjoy my football again. I have to say that I am very pleased with how things are going both for me personally and for the team. Hopefully that will carry on for the rest of the season.
"We have an FA Cup Quarter-Final to look forward to, as well as the second leg with Shakhtar this week. That will be another exciting game and it will be an exciting place to go.
"But the League is our bread and butter, and it's important that we keep picking up points. We have a nice amount already, but there is a long way to go. However, we're certainly not looking downwards, we're definitely looking up."
Fans Forum Monday 22nd February 2010
Fulham FC News
Fulham Football Club is delighted to announce that it will be hosting a Fans Forum at Craven Cottage on Wednesday 3rd March at 7:00pm .
On the night, you will be given the opportunity to put your questions and thoughts to Fulham's Chief Executive Officer Alistair Mackintosh .
Due to limited capacity, attendance is strictly by invitation only. If you are interested in attending then please contact the Club via email:
[email protected]|
We would be grateful if you could provide both your name and Season Ticket or Club Membership number.
You will be notified by email if you are fortunate enough to be randomly selected to attend.
We would also invite you to submit any questions that you wish to put to the panel in advance. A representative sample of questions will then be selected to form the basis of the Forum agenda.
Supporters who are unable to attend can still take part in the debate by submitting questions for the panel to
[email protected]| Please state your name, where you are from, and any question or comment that you wish to be considered.
We look forward to seeing you at what promises to be a lively and constructive evening of discussion and debate.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/FansForum.aspx#ixzz0gHQxLYTJ (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/FansForum.aspx#ixzz0gHQxLYTJ)
Through The Ranks
Monday 22nd February 2010
Fulham FC News
Matthew Reece
Age: 17
Position: Centre-forward
Academy hopeful Matthew Reece believes that there is more to a striker's game than simply scoring goals.
The 17-year-old has certainly made a habit of hitting the back of the net though, scoring freely for the Club's U16s and continuing that form this season in his first campaign with the U18s.
However there is more to Reece than just his ability in front of goal. Tall, powerfully built and with a hard-working attitude, the talented youngster is a player that has impressed onlookers of late yet points to the guidance of Academy coaches Mark Pembridge and Gary Brazil as the reason behind his progression.
"I moved up to the U18s over the summer and I think my first eight months as a first-year scholar have been good," he says. "The transition is always difficult at first because you have to think differently in almost every aspect.
"But like the other lads who came up from the U16s, Mark Pembridge had prepared us well. I'd been involved with the older group of players at times last year so I don't think it took me too long to find my feet.
"Pembs has a lot of experience and that is passed on to the younger players in a lot of ways. Gary has a lot of experience too, and what I like most is the fact that he used to be a striker.
"I've learned a lot under his guidance and he's helped me become not just a better goal scorer, but an all-round better player. It's kind of difficult not to develop here because the training is first class."
And the local youngster certainly understands the importance of training. It serves as a chance to fine-tune his game and work on elements of his play that could ultimately make a difference in the long-term.
"Every player has parts of the game that they need to work on," admits Matthew. "For me, I need to improve my right foot when it comes to striking the ball. If I am to become a Premier League striker then I have to be good with both feet.
"You have to make the most of the goal scoring opportunities that come your way, because the higher level you play, the less frequent they become. So when they do fall your way you have to make sure you take them – and the ball might drop on your weaker foot.
"When we have shooting sessions I try and do as much as I can with my right foot, in fact I probably use that more than my stronger left foot at times. But that's the only way that I am going to improve."
The striker came to the Club relatively late, having been spotted playing Sunday League youth football in Surrey and, having not, by his own admission, hit the ground running after joining the Academy, Reece insists that he has made up for lost time.
"I do feel like I have caught up now," he says on reflection. "I made a slow start and I admit that it was difficult at first. I'm proud of the fact that I have come a long way since then and I certainly don't look out of place at this level."
Even with the U18s, competition for places is intense with Reece one of a number of talented strikers. He may not have played as much as he would have originally anticipated at the start of the season, but his reaction to the situation has been admirable.
"Competition for places is extremely high," says Matthew. "I wouldn't say that I have been a regular starter, but it's difficult because both Marcello Trotta and Richard Peniket are fantastic players.
"They have been doing well this year and when that is the case, of course it's difficult for others to make their mark. But that said, I know what I need to do and hopefully at some point I'll prove myself.
"I still think I've had a good season so far and I have contributed with some important goals. I have to remain positive, because after all this is only my first season with the U18 squad.
"It's good to have competition though, because it helps players improve. You have to work harder for that place in the starting line-up. You have to take the positives from every situation.
"If I started to worry about it too much it might start to take over and that's not good for anyone. I'm ready if needed, strikers have to be confident in their ability and if the challenge is set, I think I can take it."
Reece cites Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez of Manchester United and City respectively as two players he holds admiration for and also points to the performances of Teddy Sheringham not too long ago as those that define what being a striker is all about.
"Rooney and Tevez don't just score goals – they're team players," he says enthusiastically. "They also have an excellent attitude to the game and don't stop running for the whole 90 minutes.
"I could watch them play all day because they are two of the best around. They're always involved and lead the line fantastically. I grew up watching Tottenham, and Sheringham was the player that I always looked up to.
"He made the game look so easy and was another who didn't just put the ball in the back of the net. He brought others into play and was always an option for his team-mates too, and I think that's the way it should be."
The young front man also reserves praise for Fulham's very own Bobby Zamora – a player Reece has the privilege of watching close up week-in-week-out.
"In terms of holding the ball up he's probably the best in the league," states the youngster. "He's so strong on the ball and when it goes up top, you know that it is going to stick. He is a defender's worst nightmare.
"I watch him during games and when I can I'll see what he's doing in training as well, because that's where you're really going to learn. Bobby is a player that I definitely look up to and I think he has been unbelievable this season.
"I feel like he has opened my eyes a little in terms of what is needed in that position. I was lucky enough to train with him once doing shooting and hold-up play, which was a great experience.
"Like Zamora, I feel that I am a team player - although obviously I'm some way off his standard. The striker plays at the head of the team, it's an important position because you're the first line of defence. It's not just about goals – it's about keeping the team's shape."
Matthew Reece Up Close
- My nickname is just Matty or Reecie.
- A strength of mine is probably the power of my left foot.
- Although my weakness is the lack of power in my right foot – or heading!
- I would say I play most like someone like Carlos Tevez. Someone who works really hard up-front.
- The biggest influence on my career has been Mark Pembridge who was my coach at U16 level. I learned a lot working with him.
- My hidden talent is my dancing. I'm quite a mover on the dance floor.
- My favourite Fulham player is Bobby Zamora. I admire the way he holds the ball up and is so unselfish.
- Growing up my idol was Teddy Sheringham. I grew up as a Spurs fan and he was my favourite. He was just such a great striker.
- Five years from now I'll hopefully be established in the Fulham First Team.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/MatthewReece.aspx#ixzz0gHRCy0dA (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/MatthewReece.aspx#ixzz0gHRCy0dA)
Birmingham Photo Special
Monday 22nd February 2010
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/BirminghamPhotoSpecial.aspx
Didn't realise still had a role within the club!
