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Fulham 2-0 Leeds United


Fulham showed why they are the Championship's form side with an impressive win over mid-table Leeds.

They dominated the early chances and eventually went ahead when Kevin McDonald deflected in Aleksandar Mitrovic's header from a corner.

The Serbian striker put the game to bed as he ended a flowing counter-attack after Caleb Ekuban spurned one of Leeds' best chances when put through.

Unmarked Jay-Roy Grot should have got one back but headed over from close in.

The Londoners closed the gap to second-placed Cardiff to five points from a game extra, but a play-off place looks all but secure as they are now 13 points above seventh-placed Bristol City with six games left - three of which are against sides currently in the bottom six.

Fulham started the game excellently as their full-backs marauded down either flank - Mitrovic missing a fourth-minute chance after Matt Targett's pull-back before Floyd Ayite hit the base of the far post after Ryan Sessegnon's teasing pass across the face of the goal.

Mitrovic had a free header from the resulting corner well-saved by Bailey Peacock-Farrell, but it was from a similar position that the Serbian striker inadvertently set-up McDonald's opener.

The game turned on a 14-second passage of play as Marcus Bettinelli saved Ekuban's effort allowing Fulham to break - Newcastle-loanee Mitrovic playing a one-two with Tom Cairney to set up his 10th goal in nine games.

Leeds had an appeal for a penalty rightly turned down when Stuart Dallas went to ground easily under a challenge from Bettinelli shortly before Grot's miss - the substitute's header over with the goal gaping summing up the visitors' frustrating evening.



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43550811

 
Head Coach Reaction

Slaviša Jokanović labelled the 2-0 victory over Leeds United as a 'good result' for his squad as they continue to push for promotion.

Goals from Kevin McDonald and Aleksandar Mitrović secured a comfortable win for the Whites and stretched their unbeaten run to eighteen games.

"It's a good result," said Jokanović.

"We started the game very well, put them under pressure, we dominated, created many chances and, in the end, we were a little lucky to score our first goal.


"In the second half, Leeds started to find some gaps in between the lines, and stared to connect better, especially Pablo Hernandez and Samuel Saiz.

"After Marcus Bettinelli made a great save, we showed quality in our offensive transition. We're an offensive team, we created many chances and it's great news that we finished the game with another clean sheet. It's very important to show that we can survive these difficult moments."

The Whites currently sit third in the table, with five points separating them from Cardiff City in second place.

"All we can do is prepare ourselves and get ready for the next game," insisted Jokanović.

"Everything is in Cardiff's hands," said the Fulham Head Coach. "There's a big points difference between us. Now they have hard games ahead, but I believe they'll win. We'll try and do our job. We must keep trying for our supporters. At the end, it's not a chase. They need to make mistakes if we're to have any chance of catching them.

"My job is not to be satisfied; my job is to push my players to work even harder. This game is behind us, and if I'm unhappy or happy, it's not so important. Every single Championship team is fighting for big targets and we haven't achieved ours at the moment.

"We're at the point of the season where we can still try to be successful, but we won't the final result know until the end of season.

"I am proud of how hard my team is working and how they try to push to win these games. I am proud because they've never given up.

"I don't know if we can catch Cardiff. I really can't answer this question. I only care about my team and that's it."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/april/03/head-coach-reaction-leeds

 
Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon nominated for four EFL Awards including POTY

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Simon West/Action Plus via Getty Images

Fulham teenager Ryan Sessegnon has been nominated in four categories for the 2018 EFL Awards, which will be announced on April 15.

The 17-year-old wingback has netted 14 goals for the Cottagers in an impressive campaign as the west London club target promotion from the Championship

Sessegnon has been shortlisted for the Championship Player of the Season, Young Player of the Season, Apprentice of the Year and has also made it into the Team of the Season.

Wolverhampton Wanderers playmaker Ruben Neves and Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney are also up for the Championship Player of the Season accolade.

In League One, the nominations for player of the season are Blackburn's Bradley Dack, Nick Powell of Wigan and Peterborough striker Jack Marriott.

League Two's shortlist comprises of leading goalscorers Billy Kee from Accrington and Cheltenham's Mohamed Eisa alongside veteran Wycombe frontman Adebayo Akinfenwa.

All 72 managers in the EFL were invited to vote for their players of the season, with the individual winners set to be revealed at a gala dinner in central London later this month.

Other EFL awards to be announced include the Family Club of the Year, Checkatrade Community Club of the Year, Supporter of the Year, the Sir Tom Finney Award and Contribution to League Football award as well as the EFL Goal of the Year.

2018 EFL Awards Shortlist (selected)

- Sky Bet Championship Player of the Season: Tom Cairney (Fulham), Ruben Neves (Wolves), Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham)

- Sky Bet League One Player of the Season: Bradley Dack (Blackburn), Jack Marriott (Peterborough), Nick Powell (Wigan)

- Sky Bet League Two Player of the Season: Adebayo Akinfenwa (Wycombe), Mohamed Eisa (Cheltenham), Billy Kee (Accrington Stanley)

- EA Sports Young Player of the Season: James Maddison (Norwich), Ruben Neves (Wolves), Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham)

- EFL Apprentice of the Year - Championship: Alex Hunt (Sheffield Wednesday), Danny Loader (Reading), Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham)

- Checkatrade Community Club of the Year: Blackburn Rovers (North West), Middlesbrough (Yorkshire & North East), Derby (Midlands), Charlton (London), Portsmouth (South East), Bristol City (South West & Wales)

- EFL Team of the Season - Sky Bet Championship: John Ruddy (Wolves); Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham), Conor Coady (Wolves), John Terry (Aston Villa), Ryan Fredericks (Fulham); Tom Cairney (Fulham); Ruben Neves (Wolves); James Maddison (Norwich); Bobby Reid (Bristol City), Matej Vydra (Derby), Albert Adomah (Aston Villa). Manager: Neil Warnock (Cardiff)



http://www.espn.co.uk/football/english-league-championship/story/3441220/fulhams-ryan-sessegnon-nominated-for-four-efl-awards-including-poty

 
Why West Ham boss David Moyes was at Fulham vs Leeds United

Here's who West Ham boss David Moyes was watching at Fulham this evening

West Ham boss David Moyes was in the stands at Craven Cottage to watch Fulham's game with Leeds United, but who was he watching?

The Hammers were interested in Tom Cairney in the January Transfer Window, seeing bids rejected for the talismanic midfielder before the end of the window.

The side were also reportedly interested in full back Ryan Fredericks, who, along with Cairney, was named in the EFL Championship Team of the Season earlier on today.

There's also Fulham's big striker, Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Moyes was at Serbia's 2-0 win over Nigeria in the international break to watch the Newcastle loanee score twice at Barnet's Hive Stadium, and was here watching the striker score once again for Fulham.

He's been in stunning form for Fulham and Moyes is keen on the striker - he'll have been pleased with what he saw tonight.



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-ham-fulham-aleksandar-mitrovic-14489054

 
Fulham beat Leeds to continue brilliant run

Fulham 2 Leeds 0

Kevin McDonald scored a rare goal and Aleksandar Mitrovic bagged his eighth for the club as Fulham closed the gap on second-placed Cardiff to five points.

Mitrovic's goal-bound header went in via McDonald's backside midway through the first half before the Serbian slotted home the second moments after Leeds should have equalised.

Caleb Ekuban was clean through but shot straight at Marcus Bettinelli – and then Fulham broke down the other end and finished off a ruthless counter-attack on 63 minutes.

Floyd Ayite also hit the post in a first half dominated by the Whites, while the recalled Ryan Sessegnon had good chances inside the box after the break.

Mitrovic has been red hot since signing on loan from Newcastle and he twice went close on the end of good crosses before inadvertently setting up McDonald for the midfielder's second of the campaign.

Mitrovic accidentally diverted a goal-bound Sessegnon strike wide of the target early in the second half before the returning left winger forced a near-post save from Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

Leeds looked more dangerous after the break and Ekuban was distraught after he squandered their best chance of the game and watched the in-form Whites race away to put the game to bed.

In doing so, Slavisa Jokanovic's side extended their formidable run to 18 games unbeaten, including 14 wins, with six games of the season remaining.

Fulham: Bettinelli, Fredericks, Ream, Odoi, Targett, McDonald (Kalas 87), Cairney, Johansen, Sessegnon, Ayite (Norwood 66), Mitrovic.
Subs not used: Button, Christie, Piazon, Kebano, Kamara.



http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-v-leeds-united-championship-report-030418

 
Result: Fulham beat Leeds United to close gap on Cardiff City

Goals from Kevin McDonald and Aleksandar Mitrovic have earned Fulham a 2-0 win over Leeds United in Tuesday's Championship clash at Craven Cottage.

The West Londoners netted either side of half time to extend their unbeaten league record to 18 matches, as well as close the gap on second-placed Cardiff City to just five points.

Leeds had their moments with Caleb Ekuban and Jay-Roy Grot both squandering chances, but the visitors did not deserve anything from the game and Paul Heckingbottom has work to do during the closing weeks of the campaign.

The first opportunity of the contest went the way of Fulham as Mitrovic was found 10 yards from goal by a low cross from Matt Targett, but the forward somehow fired wide.

However, the home side continued to pose a threat down the left and the Cottagers should have scored when Ryan Sessegnon's delivery across goal found Floyd Ayite at the back post, but the winger could only strike the post from inside the six-yard box.

Mitrovic then saw a header blocked by goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell at point-blank range and the signs were there that Fulham would run up a cricket score if they could find an early goal.

Leeds managed to nullify the threat offered by Fulham's front three, but Slavisa Jokanovic's men finally went ahead in the 33rd minute when McDonald diverted the ball into the net with his backside after Mitrovic and Tim Ream had helped the ball towards goal.

After going behind, Leeds rallied to put their hosts under pressure for the first time in the match, but Heckingbottom's side failed to register a shot on target before the half-time whistle.

A similar pattern of play occurred after the restart but Fulham soon started to create regular opportunities, with Sessegnon being denied a goal with a shot from 16 yards when Mitrovic got in the way of the ball.

The teenager then forced Peacock-Farrell into a fine save to his left from closer to goal, but Fulham finally did double their advantage 14 seconds after Leeds should have equalised at the other end.

Ekuban only had Marcus Bettinelli to beat from 14 yards but after the goalkeeper made the block, Fulham raced up the other end where Mitrovic slotted the ball into the bottom corner from 12 yards out.

Mitrovic's goal - his eighth since moving to Fulham on loan - put the home side in full control but with 10 minutes left, Leeds should have halved the deficit through JGrot, who somehow headed over the crossbar from inside the six-yard box.

In added-on time, Pablo Hernandez curled a free kick just wide for Leeds but aside from that effort, Fulham eased through to the final whistle as they continued their pursuit of automatic promotion.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Bettinelli; Fredericks, Odoi, Ream, Targett; McDonald (Kalas 88'), Cairney, Johansen; Ayite (Norwood 67'), Sessegnon, Mitrovic

LEEDS UNITED (4-2-3-1): Peacock-Farrell; Berardi, Jansson, Pennington, Dallas; O'Kane (Phillips 23'), Vieira; Saiz, Hernandez, Alioski (Grot 72'); Ekuban (Lasogga 72')



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/leeds-united/result/result-fulham-beat-leeds-to-close-gap-on-cardiff_322487.html

 
Fulham 2 Leeds 0: Cottagers' automatic promotion hopes boosted as Aleksandar Mitrovic scores again

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Mitrovic celebrates Fulham's second Getty Images

Fulham moved to within five points of the automatic promotion places in the Championship with a 2-0 win against Leeds at Craven Cottage.

Goals from Kevin McDonald and Aleksandar Mitrovic ensured Fulham extended their unbeaten run to 18 matches and closed the gap to second-placed Cardiff.

Fulham have played one game more than Cardiff but this result means they keep the pressure on the Bluebirds in the race for promotion to the Premier League.

Cardiff play Wolves and Aston Villa in their next two matches and Fulham on this evidence look ready to pounce on any slip-ups.

McDonald put Fulham ahead in the first half and Mitrovic continued his fine form with his eighth goal in eight matches after the break.

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(Getty Images)

Fulham knew they had a chance to close the gap to Cardiff after they had drawn 1-1 with Sheffield United on Monday and the home side started with real purpose.

Mitrovic shot wide from inside the area, Floyd Ayite struck the post and Mitrovic then had a header well saved all inside the opening 15 minutes.

It was one-way traffic and Fulham eventually took a deserved lead on 32 minutes when a corner was flicked on and hit McDonald on the back and went in.

The midfielder did not know much about it but Fulham were on their way to an important three points.

The game was settled on 63 minutes after an action-packed 30-second spell.

Leeds almost equalised but Marcus Bettinelli denied Caleb Ekuban with a brilliant save and Fulham went straight down the other end and Mitrovic made sure of the win with a cool finish.

Leeds wasted a great chance make it a nervy finish but substitute Jay-Roy Grot headed over from two yards and Fulham cruised to victory.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-2-leeds-0-cottagers-automatic-promotion-hopes-boosted-as-aleksandar-mitrovic-scores-again-a3805036.html

 
Fulham 2-0 Leeds United: Aleksandar Mitrovic rounds off a comfortable win for the Cottagers as they refuse to give up on automatic promotion dream

    Fulham beat Leeds United 2-0 after a dominating display at Craven Cottage
    Goals from Kevin McDonald and Aleksandar Mitrovic earned Fulham three points
    Win moves them within five points of Cardiff and an automatic promotion place

On the day Ryan Sessegnon and Tom Cairney formed two-thirds of the Championship Player of the Season shortlist, it was one of Fulham's more unsung heroes who kept their automatic promotion hopes alive.

Kevin McDonald scored almost accidentally but it was enough to set them on their way to victory over Leeds and trim the gap to second-placed Cardiff to five points.

Even if Fulham's top two charge has come too late, they will have some almighty momentum for the play-offs. This was their 18th successive unbeaten league match, with 14 of those victories.

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Aleksandar Mitovic scored from inside the box as Fulham continue to chase promotion

Aleksandar Mitrovic, a far more regular scorer, made it two after the break, rounding off a clinical Fulham break just moments after Caleb Ekuban had been denied one-on-one by Marcus Bettinelli.

Both Sessegnon and Cairney will find few dissenters as they join Ruben Neves of Wolves on the shortlist following outstanding campaigns, while Ryan Fredericks also joined them in the Team of the Season. The winners will be revealed on April 15.

Now all that remains to be seen is whether Cardiff, who still retain a game in hand, will suffer a Devon Loch-style collapse in their remaining seven games.

That seems unlikely with promotion specialist Neil Warnock in charge but rest assured that nobody will want to face Fulham in the play-offs.

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Mitrovic let all his emotions show as he scored Fulham's second in a 2-0 win over Leeds United

Somehow you feel they've learned valuable lessons from bottling it against Reading in last season's semi-finals when they were the division's most exciting team by some distance.

They certainly started like a side who still believe they can reel in Cardiff on the season's home straight.

At their free-flowing best from the get-go, Mitrovic offered an early signal of intent when he turned Matt Targett's left-side cross wide at the near post.

As is often the case, Fulham found plenty of attacking joy down the left, with Targett invited to push forward at every opportunity by the generous space the Leeds defenders left Ryan Sessegnon.

Both were involved in a move that saw Sessegnon flash a ball across the face of goal. It evaded Mitrovic in the centre but fell perfectly to Floyd Ayite, who had most of the target to aim at and keeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell stranded.

Ayite rattled the post, however, and Pontus Jansson eventually cleared for a corner. From it, Targett's inch-perfect cross was met by Mitrovic, the striker's header blocked by the arm of Peacock-Farrell.

At this point it looked as though Leeds could be swamped. Fulham had four-fifths of the ball and were conjuring chances with it.

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Kevin McDonald put Fulham up in the first-half when he scored from a corner

But they would have to wait 33 minutes for the breakthrough and it came from an unlikely source.

Targett again swung across a corner that Mitrovic nodded towards goal. It struck the oblivious McDonald on the right hip as he turned away from goal, the midfielder unwittingly fooling Peacock-Farrell who'd moved too far the other way.

McDonald's non-plussed reaction said it all. It almost took Sessegnon and Tim Ream running towards him, armed outstretched, to fully realise what he'd done.

Mind you, this isn't a feeling the Scot experiences too often. This was just his second goal of the season and fifth in Fulham colours. Who cares? They all count.

'Cardiff City, we're coming for you,' sung the home fans.

Leeds were backed by at least 5,000 fans who packed the Putney End. It was a mighty impressive following for a mid-table side with little to play for, let alone one that was in the play-off position of sixth on New Year's Day only to tumble miserably away.

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Denis Odoi (right) runs with the ball as Fulham put in a dominating display to stay in third

In stoppage time, Gaetano Berardi blazed a volley over from a corner, but that was all the travelling hordes had to cheer before half-time.

It didn't get much better afterwards. Fulham continued to press, with Ayite's shot deflected wide and Mitrovic inadvertently blocking Sessegnon's shot from Cairney's cut-back.

Sessegnon had the bit between his teeth, forcing Peacock-Farrell into a sharp one-handed save after his mazy run had sprung Fulham forward again.

Fulham's second goal, just after the hour, showed how football games often tilter on fine margins.

At one moment, Ekuban was played through on goal by Berardi but denied by Bettinelli, who'd come from his line to narrow the angle.

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The Cottagers won comfortably in the end as they continue to pile the pressure on Cardiff

Fulham cleared and broke ruthlessly through the middle with Stefan Johansen. Mitrovic received the ball and picked out Cairney on the right-side of the box. After checking movements in the middle, the captain rolled it back to the Serbian striker, who'd hung back, to roll a low shot into the corner.

It was an eighth goal in 11 Championship matches for Mitrovic since he arrived on loan from Newcastle United on January's transfer deadline day. In contrast to his usual muscle-flexing celebrations, the inconsolable Ekuban was taken off soon afterwards.

Jay Roy Grot, introduced from the bench at the same time, should have buried a close-range header from Samuel Saiz's cross.

That would have made the game's finale interesting but instead Leeds' travelling support were left chanting ironically when they had a late shot on target. Pablo Hernandez did curl a stoppage time free-kick just wide.

These truly are two clubs heading in very different directions.

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With 6 games to go, Fulham are five points off second and a chance of automatic promotion



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5575081/Fulham-2-0-Leeds-United-Aleksandar-Mitrovic-rounds-comfortable-win.html#ixzz5BgaaI2Z1
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FULL-TIME: Leeds United fall to Craven Cottage defeat as McDonald and Mitrovic hand Fulham victory

Leeds United fell to a 2-0 defeat at Craven Cottage against promotion-chasing Fulham on Tuesday evening.

The first chance of the game fell to Stuart Dallas after just a minute with the Northern Irishman blazing over the bar from just inside the area and it would sum up Leeds' evening. Three minutes later and it was Fulham's turn, winger Matt Targett got in behind on the left flank and picked out loanee Aleksandar Mitrovic but he could only drag his effort wide. The hosts should have been ahead on the 10 minute mark as the onslaught continued, Ryan Sessegnon again exposed the Whites on the left to pick out Floyd Ayite who smashed his thunderous effort against the post. Leeds cleared but only for a corner and it was Mitrovic who was there yet again just moments later to meet the resulting set-piece but Bailey Peacock-Farrell was equal to the effort.

Fulham surged forward once more as Stefan Johansen scuffed another dangerous cross towards goal before the United blocked the resulting scramble away for another corner. The hosts finally had their breakthrough from the following set-piece as Mitrovic caused more mayhem meeting the corner with another powerful header. His effort hit Kevin McDonald, who didn't know anything about it, and it wrong footed Peacock-Farrell in the Whites goal as it agonisingly crept into the bottom corner to break the deadlock.

Fulham surged forward once more as Stefan Johansen scuffed another dangerous cross towards goal before the United blocked the resulting scramble away for another corner. The hosts finally had their breakthrough from the following set-piece as Mitrovic caused more mayhem meeting the corner with another powerful header. His effort hit Kevin McDonald, who didn't know anything about it, and it wrong footed Peacock-Farrell in the Whites goal as it agonisingly crept into the bottom corner to break the deadlock. The home crowd were spurred on by the opening goal but it was actually Leeds who finished the half strongest following the early storm of pressure. Samuel Saiz fed through fellow Spaniard Pablo Hernandez but he couldn't quite get a shot away before he returned the favour just minutes later, this time Saiz was flagged for offside as the referee signalled for the break. Leeds began the second period much like the first dominating much of the play but it was Fulham who had the first opening of the half. Youngster Sessegnon drilled an effort towards goal and Peacock-Farrell was there once again with strong hands to keep the winger's effort out. Just after the hour mark the games real turning point occurred and it was thirty seconds that summed up United's season.

Gaetano Berardi fed in Caleb Ekuban who had all the time in the world to beat Marcus Bettinelli in the Fulham goal but the 24-year-old failed to pick out his spot. Fulham broke and from the resulting attack doubled their advantage as Tom Cairney found Mitrovic free in the area who slotted home without hesitation. The Whites continued to play and fashioned another late opportunity as substitute Jay-Roy Grot headed over from point blank range following a brilliantly curled cross from Saiz. It wasn't to be for Heckingbottom's men as they fell to another defeat that leaves the Whites thirteenth in the table.



Read more at: https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/full-time-leeds-united-fall-to-craven-cottage-defeat-as-mcdonald-and-mitrovic-hand-fulham-victory-1-9096393

 
Fulham 2-0 Leeds PLAYER RATINGS: McDonald and Mitrovic keep the promotion hunt on

18 games without defeat now for Fulham as they dispatched Leeds 2-0 at Craven Cottage

A Kevin McDonald wondergoal (okay, not really) and a Aleksandar Mitrovic strike gave Fulham a comfortable 2-0 victory over Leeds United.

Fulham had a few great chances to put themselves ahead in the early stages, with Floyd Ayite smashing the outside of the post, while Mitrovic was denied by a superb Bailey Peacock-Farrell save.

But the home side made their pressure count when Mitrovic's header hit McDonald on his backside, wrong footing the Leeds keeper and giving Fulham the lead.

Leeds saw more of the ball in the second half but Fulham continue to threaten - Sessegnon came close but another superb Peacock-Farrell save denied the wonderkid.

A wonderful Marcus Bettinelli save denied Leeds, before Fulham scored 14 SECONDS later through Mitrovic in a ruthless counter attack.

Here's how we rated the side:

Bettinelli 9: Didn't have much to do in the first half. Absolutely stunning save kept Fulham's lead intact, before they went up the pitch and scored 14 seconds later. Big performance from the number one.

Fredericks 7: Tenacious display in the first 45 covering both attack and defence for Fulham.

Odoi 7: Another solid showing at centre back - him and Ream are becoming first choice for Jokanovic.

Ream 8: REAMMM! What more can be said about the American? Solid once more.

Targett 7: Combined well with Sessegnon to cause problems in the first half.

McDonald 8: Won't know much about the goal, but another solid performance in the anchor role.

Johansen 8: Got stuck into the Leeds midfield and provided the thrust going forward for Fulham.

Cairney 8: Metronome in midfield again, dictated play with Leeds not able to get near him.

Sessegnon 7: Caused problems down the left in the first 45 with Targett. Started to get on the ball in the second, cutting inside and causing mayhem.

Ayite 6: Had a decent game and got on the ball, but should've scored in the first half.

Mitrovic 8: Physical presence caused a problem and got an assist for the first goal. Got himself a goal when he got on the end of a lethal Fulham break.

Subs -

Norwood 6: Came on to add steel to Fulham's midfield after going 2-0 up. Added an extra man to combat Leeds running through the midfield.

Kalas N/A: Not enough time to affect proceedings having replaced McDonald in the 88th minute.



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/fulham-2-0-leeds-player-14488840

 
Next at Home: Reading

As Fulham continue their push for promotion, the boys return to Craven Cottage on Tuesday 10th April, when they take on Reading (kick-off 7:45pm).

Watch the Whites under the Cottage lights, with tickets starting from £15 for juniors and £30 for adults.

Back the boys and secure your tickets today online, by telephone on 0203 871 0810 (opt 2) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

Season Ticket Holder Offer: Two Mates for £5 each!

We're offering Season Ticket Holders the opportunity to bring up to two mates for just £5 each to this match.

An exclusive offer just for 17/18 Season Ticket Holders, get behind Slaviša Jokanović and the Whites as we face the Royals.

Supporters can purchase their tickets online now. Fans are reminded to log in to their ticketing account in order to view the special price.

All tickets are subject to availability. Terms & Conditions and booking fees apply.

*Exclusive offer for 17/18 Season Ticket Holders only, maximum of two tickets per person. Tickets for this promotion are subject to availability and are not available in the Putney End.

When purchasing online, fans will be required to log in to their ticketing account in order to view this special price.




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/april/03/reading-tickets

 
Fulham 2-0 Leeds United

Fulham benefited from a freak goal from Kevin McDonald as they enhanced their Championship promotion chances with a 2-0 win over Leeds.
The third-placed Cottagers moved five points behind Cardiff in second after midfielder McDonald scored off his backside before in-form Aleksandar Mitrovic added a second.
Fulham, who have won six of their last seven matches, extended their record-breaking unbeaten league run to 18 matches.
The hosts opted to restore Ryan Sessegnon to their line-up after resting him for Friday's 2-0 victory at Norwich.
And it was the Cottagers who had the first significant chance of the game as Mitrovic fired wide from Matt Targett's cross from the left.
Fulham went even closer shortly afterwards as Floyd Ayite hit a post from another cross from the left, this time from Sessegnon.
Mitrovic was then denied by visiting goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell following his header from Tom Cairney's corner.
Leeds lost midfielder Eunan O'Kane, who was forced off through injury after just 23 minutes.
Fulham continued to offer the main threat with Ayite's shot deflecting wide and from the resulting 33rd-minute Targett corner took the lead in freak fashion.
Mitrovic's header down hit a stationary McDonald and trickled past a stranded Bailey Peacock-Farrell.
Leeds offered a response just before the break with captain Gaetano Berardi shooting wide on the volley from Pablo Hernandez's corner.
Fulham started the second half well with Stuart Dallas heading straight over his own crossbar from Ryan Fredericks' threatening cross.
They went close again as Mitrovic inadvertently blocked a shot from team-mate Sessegnon, who then was denied by Peacock-Farrell after he had exchanged passes with Stefan Johansen.
Leeds offered the occasional scare for the hosts on the break with Ronaldo Vieira's 30-yard shot going wide.
They then missed an even better one after 63 minutes as Caleb Ekuban was denied by Marcus Bettinelli in a one-on-one - and Fulham went straight down the other end to score on the break.
On-loan Newcastle striker Mitrovic made it eight goals in as many games as he slotted home after exchanging passes with Cairney.
The hosts continued to attack, with Fredericks firing into the side netting, while Leeds had a penalty appeal waved away after Dallas went down under a challenge from Bettinelli.
And the visitors' evening was summed up when substitute Jay-Roy Grot headed over with the goal at his mercy following Samuel Saiz's late cross.



http://www.espn.co.uk/football/report?gameId=483226

Match Recap: Leeds United lose 2-0 on the road to Fulham
Another demoralizing loss for Leeds

Leeds United traveled to West London looking for a famous upset, but once again were denied any points because of crap finishing and a ruthless Fulham side that is looking to catch Cardiff City for the final playoff spot. And as much as Leeds fans would like to see Neil Warnock fail to get automatic promotion, losing to Fulham in this fashion is still too much.

Fulham took their chances while Leeds wasted their chances on the ball, and Leeds limped to yet another defeat away from home and Fulham is now 18 matches unbeaten and looking like a team that will be playing in the Premier League next season.

Leeds were put under some early pressure, as the post denied an open goal from Fulham's Floyd Ayite. Off the resulting corner, Alexander Mitrovic had an open header on goal, but the shot was well saved by Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

Eunan O'Kane went off injured in the 22nd minute with Kalvin Phillips replacing him in a like-for-like swap of central midfielders. O'Kane going off earned him some banter on Twitter, but given the length of the injury list, it is a tad worrying to see him go down in the first half of the match.

After a Kalvin Phillips mistake, Fulham were able to drive forward and earn a corner kick that was promptly put into the back of the net. The ball appeared to go in off of McDonald's backside and into the back of the net. The opposition scoring off a pinballing shot in the box that ultimately rebounds in off of the backside of an opposing player pretty much sums up the season.

Not much else went on for Leeds during the rest of the half. A few decent balls between Hernandez and Saiz were the only real chances for Leeds, and despite a volley from Gaetano Berardi that appeared to go into orbit, Leeds looked fairly toothless going forward while Fulham looked in decent control for most of the half. Leeds trailed 1-0 at the half.

Leeds attempted to get something going in the first part of the second half, but once again the final ball seemed to once again let the team down. For all of the possession and passing, nary a chance on goal was created by Leeds as Fulham looked to contain the attack.

Sessegnon was denied a goal by Mitrovic, as the Serbian striker was somehow placed right in the way of the young England winger's shot. Sessegnon had another shot that was saved by Peacock-Farrell and out for a corner that Leeds broke out from, only for Alioski to be a few miles offside after Saiz dithered on the ball instead of passing it early.

Caleb Ekuban missed what absolutely was a glorious chance as Kalvin Phillips laid the ball out perfectly for Ekuban to strike home, but the striker could only hit the onrushing keeper. Fulham broke out perfectly for the counter attack, and Tom Cairney made Leeds pay by playing a neat 1-2 with Alexander Mitrovic that the Serbian slotted home.

Both Jay-Roy Grot and Pierre-Michel Lasogga were brought on in the 72nd minute for Gjanni Alioski and Caleb Ekuban, in a vain attempt for Leeds to try and get back into the game.

Grot did nothing to quell his critics after a perfect pass from Saiz found both Lasogga and Grot completely unmarked in the six-yard box, only for the Dutchman to miss an impossibly easy header. Literally, any player on the pitch except for Grot would have scored from that header. Leeds, once again, totally failed to convert an easy chance.

Saiz won a free kick in stoppage time, but even Hernandez couldn't salvage at least a goal out of this mess. Leeds would go on and fail to get even a point against Fulham after missing some excellent chances and falling victim to a fluke goal and a perfectly timed counter-attack.

Fulham picked up three vital points in their race for automatic promotion spots while Leeds are once again left to pick up the pieces and make the long journey back to Yorkshire.


https://throughitalltogether.sbnation.com/2018/4/3/17193948/match-recap-leeds-united-lose-2-0-on-the-road-to-fulham-18-match-unbeaten-streak

 
Fulham 2-0 Leeds: Aleksandar Mitrovic on target as hosts keep pressure on Cardiff

Fulham kept alive their automatic promotion hopes and stretched a remarkable unbeaten run to 18 games with a 2-0 win over Leeds at Craven Cottage.

Kevin McDonald scored a freak first-half opener and Aleksandar Mitrovic - just moments after Caleb Ekuban had spurned a glorious chance to equalise - added a crucial second in the 63rd minute as the hosts closed the gap on Cardiff to five points.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side have played a game more than Neil Warnock's men but will look to their rivals' looming games against Wolves - live on Sky Sports - and Aston Villa, as well as their own continued hot streak as they seek to swerve the nerve-fraying finale of the play-offs.

Leeds - who have now won just two of their last 16 games - might long have been tucked in mid-table but Paul Heckingbottom vowed his side were out to upset those retaining ambitions and Stuart Dallas fired a first-minute warning, albeit into the crowd.

But Fulham soon settled into their rhythm. Familiarly slick build-up saw Mitrovic sweep wide and see a header smartly saved, as well as linking up with Ryan Sessegnon in a one-touch move that Floyd Ayite could only finish against a post.

Stefan Johansen had a chance of his own when Ayite darted down the right but the breakdown came in unexpectedly scruffy fashion in the 33rd minute when Matt Targett's corner, having been flicked on by Mitrovic, bounced off the back of an unwitting McDonald.

Leeds, who had carried only fleeting threat from set-pieces, might have gone further behind had Mitrovic not got in the way of Sessegnon's goalwards sweep, nor Bailey Peacock-Farrell stretched to deny the teen after a fierce drive with his right boot.

But Fulham did extend their lead during a minute that proved pivotal. Ekuban, set free by Gaetano Berardi, lashed straight at Marcus Bettinelli and, straight up the other end, Mitrovic served punishment by slotting low after exchanging passes with Tom Cairney.

The hosts continued to attack, Ryan Fredericks firing into the side netting, while Leeds had a penalty appeal rightly waved away after Dallas went down with a flourish under a challenge from Bettinelli.

Heckingbottom's side competed more gamely after the break but their night was summed up when substitute Jay-Roy Grot headed over from just yards out following Samuel Saiz's late cross.

Man of the match - Aleksandar Mitrovic
The on-loan Newcastle man took his tally to eight goals in as many games but his endeavour, clever lay-offs, and aerial threat made for a fine all-round performance.

"Link play, aggression, work rate... Fulham were missing a true centre-forward and he's filled the void brilliantly," said co-commentator Andy Hinchcliffe.

The managers
Slavisa Jokanovic: "It depends on [Cardiff]. We can do it, we can try and repair ourselves and be ready for our next game. It is our ambition to fight for three points every week. But everything depends on Cardiff, they must lose.

"They have five points and that is a big difference. We will try and do our job, it's a race, we will try and chase."

Paul Heckingbottom: "The big moments were the difference between the teams. We can take lots of things from that game: frustration, anger, pleasure, disappointment. Caleb needs to work

"Certain things went against us. Some pleasing things came out of the game but I'm getting frustrated. We more than matched them but they were good."

What's next?
The gruelling Championship schedule continues as Fulham travel to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, before hosting Reading on Tuesday. Leeds welcome Sunderland on Saturday, before heading to Preston.



http://www.skysports.com/football/fulham-vs-leeds/report/375091

 
Loan Round-Up

On Good Friday in League One, Stephen Humphrys played the opening 77 minutes for Rochdale in their crucial 3-1 win at home to promotion hopefuls Shrewsbury Town.


After conceding early on, Rochdale's equaliser came in the 12th minute of first half stoppage time through Oliver Rathbone.

Stephen Davies added the second with an overhead kick, and Shrewsbury had a chance to equalise late on.

Referee Richard Clark awarded Town a spot kick in injury time, however changed his mind after consulting the linesman.

From the resulting corner, Dale broke and Ian Henderson sealed the dramatic win in the 96th minute.

Rochdale stay in the relegation zone, 23rd in the table. However, those three vital points see the Dale four points off safety with two games in hand, plus a favourable goal difference to those teams above.

Shrewsbury since then beat Oxford United and have returned to the automatic promotion spots.

On Easter Monday also in League One, Marek Rodák's Rotherham United fell to a 3-1 away defeat to play-off rivals Charlton Athletic.

The Addicks stormed to a three goal lead before the Millers were able to respond with a consolation goal. Rotherham stay fourth in the table on 66 points, 15 points off the automatic promotion spots.

They are five points above Charlton in sixth, and Portsmouth in seventh.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/april/03/loan-round-up

 
Fulham vs Leeds United: Slavisa Jokanovic's post match press conference as the Cottagers go 18 matches unbeaten

The match finished 2-0 to Slavisa Jovanovic's men

The gap to Cardiff and automatic promotion is down to five points after a solid 2-0 win from Fulham this evening.

Kevin McDonald opened the scoring, though he didn't know much about it until the ball was already in the net, while Mitrovic finished a scything counter-attack when Tom Cairney laid the ball off for him 12 yards out.

Losing to Sunderland seems a long time ago as Fulham remain in third place and two points clear of Aston Villa, who beat Reading 3-0.



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/fulham-leeds-jokanovic-live-press-14488925

 
Lucky goal helps Fulham beat Leeds

Fulham benefited from a freak goal from Kevin McDonald as they enhanced their Championship promotion chances with a 2-0 win over Leeds.

The third-placed Cottagers moved five points behind Cardiff in second after midfielder McDonald scored off his backside before in-form Aleksandar Mitrovic added a second.

Fulham, who have won six of their last seven matches, extended their record-breaking unbeaten league run to 18 matches.

The hosts opted to restore Ryan Sessegnon to their line-up after resting him for Friday's 2-0 victory at Norwich.

And it was the Cottagers who had the first significant chance of the game as Mitrovic fired wide from Matt Targett's cross from the left.

Fulham went even closer shortly afterwards as Floyd Ayite hit a post from another cross from the left, this time from Sessegnon.

Mitrovic was then denied by visiting goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell following his header from Tom Cairney's corner.

Leeds lost midfielder Eunan O'Kane, who was forced off through injury after just 23 minutes.

Fulham continued to offer the main threat with Ayite's shot deflecting wide and from the resulting 33rd-minute Targett corner took the lead in freak fashion.

Mitrovic's header down hit a stationary McDonald and trickled past a stranded Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

Leeds offered a response just before the break with captain Gaetano Berardi shooting wide on the volley from Pablo Hernandez's corner.

Fulham started the second half well with Stuart Dallas heading straight over his own crossbar from Ryan Fredericks' threatening cross.

They went close again as Mitrovic inadvertently blocked a shot from team-mate Sessegnon, who then was denied by Peacock-Farrell after he had exchanged passes with Stefan Johansen.

Leeds offered the occasional scare for the hosts on the break with Ronaldo Vieira's 30-yard shot going wide.

They then missed an even better one after 63 minutes as Caleb Ekuban was denied by Marcus Bettinelli in a one-on-one – and Fulham went straight down the other end to score on the break.

On-loan Newcastle striker Mitrovic made it eight goals in as many games as he slotted home after exchanging passes with Cairney.

The hosts continued to attack, with Fredericks firing into the side netting, while Leeds had a penalty appeal waved away after Dallas went down under a challenge from Bettinelli.

And the visitors' evening was summed up when substitute Jay-Roy Grot headed over with the goal at his mercy following Samuel Saiz's late cross.



http://londonfootballnews.co.uk/fulham/lucky-goal-helps-fulham-beat-leeds-united/

 
Fulham 2  Leeds United 0: Kevin McDonald and Aleksandar Mitrovic strikes keep up pressure on Cardiff


Fulham extended their unbeaten league run to 18 games and kept up the pressure on second-placed Cardiff.

Neil Warnock's side are showing few signs of slowing down themselves and will move eight points clear of the Cottagers if they win their game in hand.

All Fulham can do is keep winning and they did so comfortably at Craven Cottage despite the good fortune which accompanied their opening goal. Leeds had earlier play-off aspirations of their own but have only won twice this year, consigning them to mid table.

Their young-side showed plenty of heart in the capital but were no match for Slavisa Jokanovic's side. Aleksandar Mitrovic scored in the second half, adding to Kevin McDonald's earlier strike as Fulham dominated for long spells.

Mitrovic came close early on as Bailey Peacock-Farrell saved his header superbly from Matt Targett's corner whilst Floyd Ayite struck the post when he should have scored as Fulham laid siege to the Leeds goal. Ryan Sessegnon had earlier been nominated for both the Championship's player and young player of the season awards and lurked threateningly on the left flank, awaiting his opportunity.

Fulham took a deserved lead in fortuitous circumstances as Mitrovic again rose to meet Targett's corner and the ball diverted in of McDonald's hip, to the complete surprise of the Fulham midfielder.

Sessegnon came close to adding a second after the break, his goal-bound effort being blocked by Mitrovic after good work from Tom Cairney – also a nominee for the league's best player award.

The 17-year-old then popped up on the right side to fire in a shot which Peacock-Farrell did well to turn round the post. The pivotal moment came just after the hour mark when Caleb Ekuban missed an excellent chance to equalise for Leeds when he shot straight at Marcus Bettinelli. From the save, Fulham raced up the field and Cairney fed Mitrovic to make it 2-0.

The travelling supporters managed to retain their perspective. "Leeds are staying up," they sang in mock jubilation.



https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2018/04/03/fulham-2-leeds-united-0-kevin-mcdonald-aleksandar-mitrovic-strikes/

 
Aleksandar Mitrovic strike ensures Fulham keep up promotion pressure on Cardiff with impressive win over Leeds

Fulham 2 Leeds United 0: Kevin McDonald deflected in Aleksandar Mitrovic's header from a corner and the striker then finished off a flow counter-attack to seal the points

(https://static.independent.co.uk/s3fs-public/styles/article_large/public/thumbnails/image/2018/04/03/22/aleksander-mitrovic-2.jpg)
Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrates scoring Fulham's second Getty

With six games to go, Fulham know their chances of automatic promotion are almost out of sight. But it certainly hasn't stopped them doing everything they can in the meantime.

A lucky first-half deflection and a slick move on the counter helped them to a victory over Leeds they had to work for on Tuesday night.

The home side's stunning form is a force to to be reckoned with – they're still unbeaten at Craven Cottage since October and won all but one of their last 11 games here.

Positivity may be at its highest at Craven Cottage, or at least it may have peaked a few weeks ago, but they're still a seemingly unshakeable five points from Cardiff in second place – despite the Welsh side dropped two points at Sheffield United on Monday.

Chances came thick and fast early on for Floyd Ayite and Newcastle loanee Aleksandar Mitrovic, who hit the post and nudged a shot just wide respectively. The momentum was all white.

Leeds United fans had come down to London in force, and were far louder, until the first goal silenced them. The noise then shifted as the home crowd finally found their voices.

All the possession and the pressure from Fulham meant something had to give, and the moment eventually came just after the half-hour mark from a corner. The ball pin-balled around the Leeds penalty box, ricocheting off Kevin McDonald's lower back into the bottom corner. The midfielder hadn't noticed until he heard the cheering, but grinned cheekily as he realised.

Up until the hour, the scoreline didn't do the quality much justice with just the one goal to Fulham's name. They'd had over 10 chances to Leeds's two. Fulham were solid defensively, and although their distribution was getting sloppy at times in the middle, they had a clear grip on the game.

(https://static.independent.co.uk/s3fs-public/styles/story_medium/public/thumbnails/image/2018/04/03/22/matthew-pennington.jpg)
Matthew Pennington slides in for a tackle (Getty)

Ryan Sessegnon could have had a brace as he was allowed time and space down the left wing. If it weren't for Aleksandar Mitrovic getting in the way of one shot, and Bailey Peacock-Farrell getting his gloves behind another, the Fulham top scorer would have had more to celebrate than just his multiple nominations for Championship Player and Young Player of the Year.

Leeds had started to get more time on the ball in the second half, and when Caleb Ekuban was put through on goal he saw his golden chance to equalise. Marcus Bettenelli spread himself wide though, and the home side suddenly sprung into life. Fulham went straight up the field to double their lead. Mitrovic combining with Tom Cairney to complete a slick counter attack that left Ekuban with head in hands.

Fulham then maintained control, despite a few shaky moments towards the end. Stefan Johansen was lucky to stay of the field after making no attempt to get the ball in a serious challenge.

When substitute Jay Roy Grot then missed another sitter with 12 minutes to go. There was the feeling that it clearly just wasn't Leeds's night. Although they did make a fighting attempt to get back into the game, they just couldn't get past the Fulham back four.



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/football-league/fulham-leeds-united-aleksandar-mitrovic-championship-match-report-a8287456.html

 
Slavisa Jokanovic bigs up Kevin McDonald and his influence after Fulham beat Leeds 2-0

The head coach praised the performances McDonald has had in the past 40 games and the influence he has had on the side

Slavisa Jokanovic has heaped praise on the influence that Kevin McDonald has on his Fulham side after they beat Leads United 2-0.

The newly-capped Scotsman scored the opening goal, when Aleksandar Mitrovic's header deflected off his backside to give him his second goal of the season, while the Newcaslte loanee doubled the advantage in the second half.

Often an unsung hero who does the dirty work for Fulham, Jokanovic admitted the job McDonald does for Fulham isn't the easiest job, believing the midfielder must always be at his highest lelvel.

Despite not often getting the limelight, Jokanovic has highlighted just how important the vice captain has been for his side this season, with the Leeds win meaning it's now 18 unbeaten for Fulham.

He said: "McDonald made some great work for the team, he try find some balance, at the end it's not an easy job for him because he must cover big space.

"He must be always in high level because his job isn't an easy job, it's not player that supporters detect as really important in first moment but for Fulham, in all the season, can recognise his value.

"His work, after 40 games he lost one or two or three and normally you ask about players that score goals and Sessegnon or Cairney, no one asks about him but he's an important player for us and made a great job."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/slavisa-jokanovic-bigs-up-kevin-14489215

 
Jokanovic: No let-up from Fulham in pursuit of Cardiff

Slavisa Jokanovic believes Fulham pushing Cardiff all the way for second place is the best way to prepare for the play-offs if they cannot win automatic promotion.

After Fulham beat Leeds and closed the gap to five points with six games left, Jokanovic dismissed concerns over pushing his players too hard ahead of three possible extra games.

The Whites boss said: "I try to do my job. I don't know how we are going to start now resting players and preparing for two games in May and maybe the final.

"What we must do, and is the best preparation for us, is to push hard and try to win the next game – and that's it.

"We are going to chase Sheffield Wednesday next and try to win this game. I expect we are going to be focused and ambitious to fight for three more points.

"I don't know what is going to happen. Everything is in Cardiff's hands. It depends on them.

"They must lose something for us to catch them. They have five points. Its a big difference between us. They have a hard game against Wolves but I believe they are going to win.

"We are going to try and make our job and, in the end, it's a race, and we are going to try chasing them."

Kevin McDonald scored a rare goal and Aleksandar Mitrovic bagged his eighth since joining on loan as Leeds succumbed to the Whites' 14th win in an 18-match unbeaten run.

And Jokanovic said: "We dominated the game, put them under stress and created chances.

"We got a little bit luck for the first goal and they got stronger in the second half but, in the end, we showed quality to score the second goal.

"It's great news for us. We finish with another clean sheet and we showed that we can be solid and arrive in difficult moments working altogether."



http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/jokanovic-no-let-fulham-pursuit-cardiff

 
REPORT: FULHAM 2-0 LEEDS UNITED

Leeds left to rue missed chances.

Sky Bet Championship

Fulham 2 (McDonald 33, Mitrovic 63) Leeds United 0

A goal in each half was enough to give Fulham all three points at Craven Cottage.

Leeds head coach Paul Heckingbottom made one team change from the side that beat Bolton on Good Friday with Samuel Saiz coming in to replace Pierre-Michel Lasogga.

Stuart Dallas had the first chance of the game when the ball fell to him just inside the Fulham box, but he could only fire over.                                                                                                 

It was the hosts who nearly opened the scoring when Matt Targett found Aleksander Mitrovic, but the on loan striker pulled his effort wide.

Fulham were then inches away from taking the lead, Ryan Sessegnon put a fine ball across the face of goal and Floyd Ayite hit the post.

Bailey Peacock-Farrell was then called into action and made an outstanding save from a Mitrovic header at a Fulham corner.

Pontus Jansson then made a great block to deny Mitrovic, however, from the resulting corner, Fulham took the lead, Mitrovic headed goalwards, before the ball hit Stefan Johansen and Kevin McDonald before finding the net.

On the stroke of half time, Gaetano Berardi went close following a Pablo Hernandez corner, but hc couldn't keep his volley down.

Half Time Fulham 1-0 Leeds United

After the break, Fulham went close to adding a second, Johansen fed Ayite, but Gaetano Berardi made a fine block, which saw his effort deflect wide.

Sessegnon then went close for the home side, but he saw his effort hit his own player, Mitrovic, before deflecting wide.

Peacock-Farrell then kept Leeds in the game, Johansen picked out Sessegnon in the box, but the Leeds stopper denied him from close range.

Leeds should have levelled when Berardi played Caleb Ekuban in on goal, but he was denied by Marcus Bettinelli and following the save, Fulham countered and Mitrovic fired home.

Jay-Roy Grot had a golden chance to half the deficit but headed over from close range, following an outside of the boot cross by Saiz.

Hernandez almost pulled a goal back in stoppage time from a free-kick, he bent his effort over the wall, but just inches wide, in what proved to be a frustrating night for Paul Heckingbottom's side.

Full Time Fulham 2-0 Leeds United

Fulham: Bettinelli, Fredericks, Ream, Odoi, Targett, McDonald (Kalas 88) Cairney, Johansen, R Sessegnon, Ayite (Norwood 66), Mitrovic: Subs not used: Button, Christie, Piazon, Kebano, Kamara.

Leeds: Peacock-Farrell, Berardi, Jansson, Pennington, Dallas, Ronaldo Vieira, O'Kane (Phillips 22), Hernandez, Saiz, Alioski (Grot 72) Ekuban (Lasogga 72). Subs not used: Lonergan, Anita, Cibicki, Pearce

Referee: P Banks

Booked: Bettinelli, McDonald, Johansen (Fulham) Jansson, Phillips (Leeds United)

Venue: Craven Cottage

Attendance: 21,538



https://www.leedsunited.com/news/team-news/23217/report-fulham-2-0-leeds-united

 
Fulham 2-0 Leeds United: Aleksandar Mitrovic rounds off a comfortable win for the Cottagers as they refuse to give up on automatic promotion dream

    Fulham beat Leeds United 2-0 after a dominating display at Craven Cottage
    Goals from Kevin McDonald and Aleksandar Mitrovic earned Fulham three points
    Win moves them within five points of Cardiff and an automatic promotion place

On the day Ryan Sessegnon and Tom Cairney formed two-thirds of the Championship Player of the Season shortlist, it was one of Fulham's more unsung heroes who kept their automatic promotion hopes alive.

Kevin McDonald scored almost accidentally but it was enough to set them on their way to victory over Leeds and trim the gap to second-placed Cardiff to five points.

Even if Fulham's top two charge has come too late, they will have some almighty momentum for the play-offs. This was their 18th successive unbeaten league match, with 14 of those victories.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/04/03/21/4ACBD03700000578-5575081-image-a-3_1522787418518.jpg)
Aleksandar Mitovic scored from inside the box as Fulham continue to chase promotion

Aleksandar Mitrovic, a far more regular scorer, made it two after the break, rounding off a clinical Fulham break just moments after Caleb Ekuban had been denied one-on-one by Marcus Bettinelli.

Both Sessegnon and Cairney will find few dissenters as they join Ruben Neves of Wolves on the shortlist following outstanding campaigns, while Ryan Fredericks also joined them in the Team of the Season. The winners will be revealed on April 15.

Now all that remains to be seen is whether Cardiff, who still retain a game in hand, will suffer a Devon Loch-style collapse in their remaining seven games.

That seems unlikely with promotion specialist Neil Warnock in charge but rest assured that nobody will want to face Fulham in the play-offs.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/04/03/21/4ACBC7E700000578-5575081-image-a-4_1522787420876.jpg)
Mitrovic let all his emotions show as he scored Fulham's second in a 2-0 win over Leeds United

Somehow you feel they've learned valuable lessons from bottling it against Reading in last season's semi-finals when they were the division's most exciting team by some distance.

They certainly started like a side who still believe they can reel in Cardiff on the season's home straight.

At their free-flowing best from the get-go, Mitrovic offered an early signal of intent when he turned Matt Targett's left-side cross wide at the near post.

As is often the case, Fulham found plenty of attacking joy down the left, with Targett invited to push forward at every opportunity by the generous space the Leeds defenders left Ryan Sessegnon.

Both were involved in a move that saw Sessegnon flash a ball across the face of goal. It evaded Mitrovic in the centre but fell perfectly to Floyd Ayite, who had most of the target to aim at and keeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell stranded.

Ayite rattled the post, however, and Pontus Jansson eventually cleared for a corner. From it, Targett's inch-perfect cross was met by Mitrovic, the striker's header blocked by the arm of Peacock-Farrell.

At this point it looked as though Leeds could be swamped. Fulham had four-fifths of the ball and were conjuring chances with it.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/04/03/21/4ACB776800000578-5575081-image-a-6_1522787440500.jpg)
Kevin McDonald put Fulham up in the first-half when he scored from a corner

But they would have to wait 33 minutes for the breakthrough and it came from an unlikely source.

Targett again swung across a corner that Mitrovic nodded towards goal. It struck the oblivious McDonald on the right hip as he turned away from goal, the midfielder unwittingly fooling Peacock-Farrell who'd moved too far the other way.

McDonald's non-plussed reaction said it all. It almost took Sessegnon and Tim Ream running towards him, armed outstretched, to fully realise what he'd done.

Mind you, this isn't a feeling the Scot experiences too often. This was just his second goal of the season and fifth in Fulham colours. Who cares? They all count.

'Cardiff City, we're coming for you,' sung the home fans.

Leeds were backed by at least 5,000 fans who packed the Putney End. It was a mighty impressive following for a mid-table side with little to play for, let alone one that was in the play-off position of sixth on New Year's Day only to tumble miserably away.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/04/03/21/4ACB636400000578-5575081-image-a-8_1522787452240.jpg)
Denis Odoi (right) runs with the ball as Fulham put in a dominating display to stay in third

In stoppage time, Gaetano Berardi blazed a volley over from a corner, but that was all the travelling hordes had to cheer before half-time.

It didn't get much better afterwards. Fulham continued to press, with Ayite's shot deflected wide and Mitrovic inadvertently blocking Sessegnon's shot from Cairney's cut-back.

Sessegnon had the bit between his teeth, forcing Peacock-Farrell into a sharp one-handed save after his mazy run had sprung Fulham forward again.

Fulham's second goal, just after the hour, showed how football games often tilter on fine margins.

At one moment, Ekuban was played through on goal by Berardi but denied by Bettinelli, who'd come from his line to narrow the angle.

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The Cottagers won comfortably in the end as they continue to pile the pressure on Cardiff

Fulham cleared and broke ruthlessly through the middle with Stefan Johansen. Mitrovic received the ball and picked out Cairney on the right-side of the box. After checking movements in the middle, the captain rolled it back to the Serbian striker, who'd hung back, to roll a low shot into the corner.

It was an eighth goal in 11 Championship matches for Mitrovic since he arrived on loan from Newcastle United on January's transfer deadline day. In contrast to his usual muscle-flexing celebrations, the inconsolable Ekuban was taken off soon afterwards.

Jay Roy Grot, introduced from the bench at the same time, should have buried a close-range header from Samuel Saiz's cross.

That would have made the game's finale interesting but instead Leeds' travelling support were left chanting ironically when they had a late shot on target. Pablo Hernandez did curl a stoppage time free-kick just wide.

These truly are two clubs heading in very different directions.

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With 6 games to go, Fulham are five points off second and a chance of automatic promotion




Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5575081/Fulham-2-0-Leeds-United-Aleksandar-Mitrovic-rounds-comfortable-win.html#ixzz5BgkAVqZ3
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McDonald and Mitrovic fire Fulham past Leeds
by Dan on April 4, 2018

Fulham cut the gap to second-placed Cardiff City at the top of the Championship to five points with a commanding win over Leeds United at Craven Cottage this evening as they kept their hopes of automatic promotion to the Premier League alive. A fortuitous first half goal from Kevin McDonald, where the Scottish midfielder unwittingly diverted in a header by Aleksandar Mitrovic, gave the hosts the half-time lead their adventurous football deserved before the Serbian striker put the game beyond Paul Heckingbottom's side in the second half.

But a brilliant save from Marcus Bettinelli seconds before the on-loan Newcastle striker doubled Fulham's lead illustrated the fine margins between success and failure in this unforgiving division. The Fulham goalkeeper thwarted Caleb Ekuban as the young striker bore down on goal and the hosts immediately punished his glaring miss through a lightning counter-attack that culminated with former Leeds trainee Tom Cairney squaring for Mitrovic to bury a low shot beyond the impressive young goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

Heckingbottom had said his side wouldn't merely come to Craven Cottage and sit behind the ball and, despite having to do without seven first-teamers through injury, Leeds were as good as their manager's word. The visitors, roared on by a vociferous travelling support, created a half chance inside the first minute with makeshift full back Stuart Dallas finding space inside the box but the Northern Ireland international sent a speculative shot high into the Hammersmith End.

That was about as good as it got for Leeds in the first period, however. Slavisa Jokanovic's side, keen to make the most of Cardiff dropping points at Sheffield United last night, were soon applying pressure down Dallas' flank with Matt Targett and the recalled Ryan Sessegnon wreaking havoc along the left. Mitrovic might have done better than steer wide from Targett's inviting cross but six minutes later Fulham went even closer. This time Sessegnon scampered free and his low cross was slammed against the far post by Floyd Ayite – when the unaccompanied winger might have done better.

The Whites were in the ascendancy and were only denied an opener by an outstanding save from the ensuing corner by Bailey-Farrell, who somehow kept out Mitrovic's downward header. The home side continued to apply relentless pressure on the Leeds goal, with McDonald firing in a couple of shots from long range and Pontus Jansson making a brave block to thwart Stefan Johansen as the Norwegian seemed set to turn in Ayite's centre.

It was last ditch stuff from Leeds and, eventually the visiting defence buckled, although the goal was one of the scrappiest Jokanovic's easy-on-the-eye side have scored all season. Targett sent over a dangerous corner from the left, which Mitrovic met with a powerful header that struck McDonald's backside and flew into the bottom corner. The midfielder's muted celebrations conveyed that he knew little about the crucial touch – as he was facing away from goal at the time – but Jokanovic was far more animated in acclaiming the vital breakthrough on the touchline.

Leeds didn't muster a shot on target in the first period, but they had their two best moments after falling behind. An errant pass from the otherwise excellent Tim Ream gifted possession to Pablo Hernandez and he carried the ball up to the edge of the box before releasing Samuel Saiz, but the offside flag had been raised before the midfielder drew a sprawling save from Bettinelli. In stoppage time, Gaetano Berardi lashed over on the volley after Fulham had failed to clear a Leeds corner – as the visitors offered a reminder of just how slender a single-goal lead might prove.

The game followed a similar pattern initially after the break as Fulham went in search of a second goal. Dallas did well to divert a dangerous cross from Ryan Fredericks over his own bar with Sessegnon skulking behind him at the far post before the teenager was inadvertently denied by Mitrovic when the Serbian blocked his goalbound effort with his head before Peacock-Farrell did superbly at full stretch to turn away Sessegnon's shot after a clever interchange with Johansen.

Leeds then threw caution to the wind and gradually managed to stall Fulham's momentum. The visitors found a way to get Saiz and the classy Hernandez more involved in proceedings, although their first effort of the second half was a speculative long-range drive from Rolando Vieira that went well wide. Heckingbottom's side were now playing some clever football and spurned a great chance to level matters when Ekuban, released by an excellent ball from Beradi, drilled a low shot against the onrushing Bettinelli.

Leeds were cruelly punished at the other end. Ream worked the ball clear to Stefan Johansen who crossed the halfway line at pace and a clever run and pass from Mitrovic worked some space for Cairney inside the box. The Fulham playmaker cut back onto his left foot and teed up Mitrovic, who drilled home his eighth goal in as many games through a crowded penalty area.

Fulham might have extended their lead further as Fredericks lashed into the side netting from an acute angle but, to their immense credit, Leeds kept on playing until the final whistle – making the last quarter of an hour far tenser than it should have been considering the scoreline. Their frustrating evening was encapsulated by an incredible miss from substitute Jay-Roy Grot with ten minutes to play, however, when he contrived to head over a delicious ball from Saiz despite being unmarked and two yards out.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Bettinelli; Fredericks, Targett, Odoi, Ream; McDonald (Kalas 88), Johansen, Cairney; Ayite (Norwood 67), R. Sessegnon, Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Button, Christie, Kebano, Piazon, Kamara.

BOOKED: McDonald, Bettinelli, Johansen.

GOALS: McDonald (33), Mitrovic (63).

LEEDS UNITED (4-2-3-1): Peacock-Farrell; Dallas, Berardi, Jansson, Pennington; O'Kane (Phillips 23), Vieira; Hernandez, Saiz, Alioski (Grot 72); Ekuban (Lassoga 72). Subs (not used): Lonergan, Anita, Cibicki, Pearce.

BOOKED: Jansson.

REFEREE: Peter Bankes (Merseyside).

ATTENDANCE: 21,538.



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Jokanovic pleased by Fulham's 'good result'
by Dan on April 4, 2018

Slavisa Jokanovic recognised Fulham's win over Leeds United at Craven Cottage this evening represented 'a good result' – but admitted that his side are relying on Cardiff City slipping up during the Championship run in if they are to achieve automatic promotion.

Goals from Kevin McDonald and Aleksandar Mitrovic either side of half-time ensured that the Whites stretched their unbeaten league run to eighteen games and Jokanovic told his post-match press conference that he was pleased with his side's desire and the quality of their football.

    It's a good result. We started the game very well, put them under pressure, we dominated, created many chances and, in the end, we were a little lucky to score our first goal. In the second half, Leeds started to find some gaps in between the lines, and stared to connect better, especially Pablo Hernandez and Samuel Saiz.

The Serbian head coach heaped praise on goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli for his pivotal save from Caleb Ekeban that was followed by a sweeping move that culminated with Mitrovic doubling Fulham's lead at the other end.

    After Marcus Bettinelli made a great save, we showed quality in our offensive transition. We're an offensive team, we created many chances and it's great news that we finished the game with another clean sheet. It's very important to show that we can survive these difficult moments.

Jokanovic insisted that he was now only focusing on Saturday's trip to Sheffield Wednesday and reiterated that Neil Warnock's side were the ones in control of their destiny behind Wolves at the top of the table.

    All we can do is prepare ourselves and get ready for the next game. Everything is in Cardiff's hands. There's a big points difference between us. Now they have hard games ahead, but I believe they'll win. We'll try and do our job. We must keep trying for our supporters. At the end, it's not a chase. They need to make mistakes if we're to have any chance of catching them.

    I am proud of how hard my team is working and how they try to push to win these games. I am proud because they've never given up. I don't know if we can catch Cardiff. I really can't answer this question. I only care about my team and that's it.



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Leaders Wolves held by Hull, Fulham beat Leeds

LONDON (Reuters) - Wolverhampton Wanderers missed the chance to move eight points clear at the top of the English Championship as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Hull City at Molineux on Tuesday.

Third-placed Fulham moved within five points of Cardiff City with a 2-0 home win over mid-table Leeds United, while Aston Villa, who are fourth, beat strugglers Reading 3-0.

Wolves are on 86 points from 40 games, ahead of Cardiff, who drew 1-1 at Sheffield United on Monday and have 80 points with a game in hand. Fulham have 75 points with Villa on 73, followed by Derby County with 65 and Middlesbrough on 63.

The top two earn automatic promotion to the Premier League with the next four clubs going into the playoffs. Wolves visit Cardiff in a top-of-the-table clash on Friday.

Wolves debutant Oskar Buur salvaged a point for the league leaders with a header in the 83rd minute after Hull had moved 2-1 ahead through a Ryan Bennett own goal five minutes earlier.

Diogo Jota had earlier put Wolves ahead with a penalty after 18 minutes having been fouled by Michael Hector, but struggling Hull's David Meyler equalised from the spot in the 37th.

Wolves need eight points from their remaining six games to secure promotion back to the top flight.

Fulham kept up the pressure on Cardiff as they beat Leeds thanks to Kevin McDonald's deflected opener in the 33rd minute and Aleksandar Mitrovic's goal on the counter just past the hour.

Villa kept pace with three second-half goals to beat 10-man Reading after the visitors had Dave Edwards sent off on the half-hour for a second booking following two poor challenges.

Birkir Bjarnason curled in the opener from the edge of the area after the break before Conor Hourihane headed in a Robert Snodgrass cross after 63 minutes. Scott Hogan added the third after visitng goalkeeper Vito Mannone tried to dribble the ball.



https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-soccer-england-championship/leaders-wolves-held-by-hull-fulham-beat-leeds-idUKKCN1HA2YZ?rpc=401&

 
Fulham 2 Leeds United: Fulham show Leeds United just how far there is to go

There has been much sniping from Elland Road about the accomplished football played by Wolverhampton Wanderers this season but Wolves are not the only club who Leeds United lag behind. Fulham exposed another gulf last night, irrespective of a raging contest at Craven Cottage.

Fulham, for the best part of two years, have had a tendency to be touted as the best team in the Championship without quite mastering it but there is a fluency and assurance in their play which Leeds can only crave.

A fortuitous goal cleared the way to a 2-0 win, claimed fortuitously by Kevin McDonald midway through the first half, but the only luck before then had been United's in hanging on. Paul Heckingbottom anticipated the onslaught, adamant beforehand that no side in the division was slicker than Slavisa Jokanovic's, but United's head coach had no remedy to the earliest stages of it and Leeds' consistent failure to outwit the Championship's better clubs is the basis of their mid-table position.

A November win over Middlesbrough is their sole victory against a top-six side. Had Sheffield United held on through injury-time for three points against Cardiff City on Monday, they would not have beaten any of them. Fulham, this season, have dished out worse treatment at their own ground, a stadium where Wolves lost by the same margin a month ago, but Leeds' brittle flanks and dearth of invention were manna from heaven for their hosts before half-time.

McDonald's unintentional strike, flying in off his thigh, put Fulham in front and Leeds' bold, concerted attempt to unsettle Jokanovic's players after the break, rattling them for 15 minutes, was blown apart by a decisive, end-to-end flurry in the 63rd minute. Caleb Ekuban, in what is becoming a trend, let another one-on-one chance go begging and covered his face with his shirt after Fulham broke away and gave Aleksandar Mitrovic time to prod a shot beyond goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell. An entire campaign in microcosm, for both clubs. Another easy chance fell to substitute Jay-Roy Grot 10 minutes from time. Grot headed over from three yards out. For a club down in 12th, it is not difficult to join the dots.

Fulham's results have been making waves since Christmas, big enough for Ryan Sessegnon and Tom Cairney to make the shortlist for the Championship's player of the year award. Ruben Neves completed the nominees named by the EFL yesterday but it was telling that Wolves, clear at the top of the division, had less representation that Jokanovic's squad. Cairney was quiet last night, save for assisting Fulham's second goal. Sessegnon, at 17, looked a cut above everyone.

Heckingbottom had promised to try and play Fulham at their own game and Samuel Saiz's recall in place of Pierre-Michel Lasogga was a halfway house; a more protective shape but a theoretical increase of creativity with Saiz on the pitch. Containing Fulham was not much of a game plan at a ground which last saw an away win a week on Hallowe'en. It became a case of that very quickly. Jokanovic's approach had Sessegnon hugging the touchline far out on the left whenever possession dropped to his players and Leeds were outmaneuvered in that area quickly and repeatedly.

Heckingbottom had promised to try and play Fulham at their own game and Samuel Saiz's recall in place of Pierre-Michel Lasogga was a halfway house; a more protective shape but a theoretical increase of creativity with Saiz on the pitch. Containing Fulham was not much of a game plan at a ground which last saw an away win a week on Hallowe'en. It became a case of that very quickly. Jokanovic's approach had Sessegnon hugging the touchline far out on the left whenever possession dropped to his players and Leeds were outmaneuvered in that area quickly and repeatedly. Mitrovic, the Newcastle loanee who had registered nine goals in 10 previous appearances, was teed-up nicely by Matt Targett in the fifth minute but swept a low shot beyond the near post and Floyd Ayite was denied by the opposite upright when Sessegnon got in behind Stuart Dallas and whipped a cross in front of Peacock-Farrell. The resulting corner saw Mitrovic, at full pelt, draw a diving parry from Peacock-Farrell and by the 12th minute, Leeds could feel themselves on the ropes. Heckingbottom was fortunate to pass the half-hour mark unwounded, save for the injury which forced him to replace Eunan O'Kane in the 22nd minute. The addition of Kalvin Phillips to a midfield which had lacked presence before then was no bad thing. The lull in Fulham's play was brief, though, and the weight of possession in their favour was suffocating. Leeds packed bodies in behind their attacks, most susceptible down Sessegnon's wing, but pushed their luck too far in the 33rd minute.

Heckingbottom had promised to try and play Fulham at their own game and Samuel Saiz's recall in place of Pierre-Michel Lasogga was a halfway house; a more protective shape but a theoretical increase of creativity with Saiz on the pitch. Containing Fulham was not much of a game plan at a ground which last saw an away win a week on Hallowe'en. It became a case of that very quickly. Jokanovic's approach had Sessegnon hugging the touchline far out on the left whenever possession dropped to his players and Leeds were outmaneuvered in that area quickly and repeatedly. Mitrovic, the Newcastle loanee who had registered nine goals in 10 previous appearances, was teed-up nicely by Matt Targett in the fifth minute but swept a low shot beyond the near post and Floyd Ayite was denied by the opposite upright when Sessegnon got in behind Stuart Dallas and whipped a cross in front of Peacock-Farrell. The resulting corner saw Mitrovic, at full pelt, draw a diving parry from Peacock-Farrell and by the 12th minute, Leeds could feel themselves on the ropes. Heckingbottom was fortunate to pass the half-hour mark unwounded, save for the injury which forced him to replace Eunan O'Kane in the 22nd minute. The addition of Kalvin Phillips to a midfield which had lacked presence before then was no bad thing. The lull in Fulham's play was brief, though, and the weight of possession in their favour was suffocating. Leeds packed bodies in behind their attacks, most susceptible down Sessegnon's wing, but pushed their luck too far in the 33rd minute. Mitrovic was first again to Targett's outswinging corner and his header struck the leg of McDonald, causing a ricochet which unintentionally wrong-footed Peacock-Farrell and found the corner of the net. In amongst some fine play it was as scruffy as Fulham's goals come. And inevitable, given the balance of the game. Heckingbottom looked in vain for Leeds to gain a proper foothold. Their first corner, six minutes before half-time, ran back to Peacock-Farrell within seconds of it landing in Fulham's box and the only glimpse of trouble for Marcus Bettinelli passed when Samuel Saiz's ball to Pablo Hernandez ran too far wide for Hernandez to shoot. The one strand of encouragement for Heckingbottom was Fulham's midfield dropping off and losing control in the final minutes of the half. Leeds kept a hold of that area after the interval and tighter marking denied Fulham as much chance to breathe. In a critical spell where Jokanovic's players found themselves chasing the ball, United needed to find a way through but ran short of ideas at the edge of Bettinelli's box.

Heckingbottom had promised to try and play Fulham at their own game and Samuel Saiz's recall in place of Pierre-Michel Lasogga was a halfway house; a more protective shape but a theoretical increase of creativity with Saiz on the pitch. Containing Fulham was not much of a game plan at a ground which last saw an away win a week on Hallowe'en. It became a case of that very quickly. Jokanovic's approach had Sessegnon hugging the touchline far out on the left whenever possession dropped to his players and Leeds were outmaneuvered in that area quickly and repeatedly. Mitrovic, the Newcastle loanee who had registered nine goals in 10 previous appearances, was teed-up nicely by Matt Targett in the fifth minute but swept a low shot beyond the near post and Floyd Ayite was denied by the opposite upright when Sessegnon got in behind Stuart Dallas and whipped a cross in front of Peacock-Farrell. The resulting corner saw Mitrovic, at full pelt, draw a diving parry from Peacock-Farrell and by the 12th minute, Leeds could feel themselves on the ropes. Heckingbottom was fortunate to pass the half-hour mark unwounded, save for the injury which forced him to replace Eunan O'Kane in the 22nd minute. The addition of Kalvin Phillips to a midfield which had lacked presence before then was no bad thing. The lull in Fulham's play was brief, though, and the weight of possession in their favour was suffocating. Leeds packed bodies in behind their attacks, most susceptible down Sessegnon's wing, but pushed their luck too far in the 33rd minute. Mitrovic was first again to Targett's outswinging corner and his header struck the leg of McDonald, causing a ricochet which unintentionally wrong-footed Peacock-Farrell and found the corner of the net. In amongst some fine play it was as scruffy as Fulham's goals come. And inevitable, given the balance of the game. Heckingbottom looked in vain for Leeds to gain a proper foothold. Their first corner, six minutes before half-time, ran back to Peacock-Farrell within seconds of it landing in Fulham's box and the only glimpse of trouble for Marcus Bettinelli passed when Samuel Saiz's ball to Pablo Hernandez ran too far wide for Hernandez to shoot. The one strand of encouragement for Heckingbottom was Fulham's midfield dropping off and losing control in the final minutes of the half. Leeds kept a hold of that area after the interval and tighter marking denied Fulham as much chance to breathe. In a critical spell where Jokanovic's players found themselves chasing the ball, United needed to find a way through but ran short of ideas at the edge of Bettinelli's box. When Fulham found a way to release themselves, their threat was more real. A goalbound strike from the untrackable Sessegnon was pushed wide by Peacock-Farrell and Fulham's second goal on 63 minutes was United's season in the space of 30 seconds. Ekuban had Leeds' chance of the night at one end, denied one-on-one by Bettinelli in a situation which has caused the striker to freeze too often in the past month, and Fulham tore upfield, working possession to Cairney whose low cut-back was tucked away with no nonsense by Mitrovic. The same was true of Grot, who came off the bench and somehow missed Bettinelli's goal after Saiz dinked a lovely pass to the unmarked Dutchman. Grot needed only a clean touch to finish but a snatched header disappeared into the air, as so much of United's season has done.

end



Read more at: https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-2-leeds-united-fulham-show-leeds-united-just-how-far-there-is-to-go-1-9096436

Fulham 2-0 Leeds United: Player ratings
by Sarah on April 4, 2018

Marks out of ten for Slavisa Jokanovic's side as Fulham extended their unbeaten run to 18 games at Craven Cottage last night ...

Marcus Bettinelli: Had very little work in the first period as Leeds couldn't manage a single shot on target in the first period but more than earned his corn after the break as he made a massive save from Caleb Ekeban to preserve Fulham's lead. Made himself big as the young striker burst through on goal – and, as if to illustrate the importance of that moment, the home side burst up field to make it 2-0 immediately afterwards. Could be a big moment in Fulham's season. 8

Ryan Fredericks: Another energetic display from the right back. Worked hard defensively throughout – setting the tone by snapping into a number of tackles. Got forward repeatedly in the second half putting in a number of dangerous crosses and might have scored himself but drove an effort into the side netting from an acute angle. The watching David Moyes, who has been linked with a summer move for the attacking full back, would have been very impressed. 7

Matt Targett: The on-loan Southampton full back still hasn't lost a game in a Fulham shirt since arriving at Craven Cottage in January. He has made a big difference to all facets of this team, including set-piece delivery, where he whipped in the cross that caused such carnage for McDonald's rather lucky opening goal. His partnership with Ryan Sessegnon down the left makes life so difficult for the opposition as well. 7

Denis Odoi: The Belgian defender was so composed at centre back again, it leaves you wondering when the fit-again Tomas Kalas will return to the side. Won plenty of headers as Leeds looked to get in behind the Fulham back four and distributed the ball impressively as well. At times, it looks like he's a natural centre half rather than someone who is filling in so strongly in that position. 7

Tim Ream: Another big game and another dominant display from the American, who continues to hit heights unimaginable when he looked set to be released at the end of Jokanovic's first season in charge. He made a number of crucial interceptions, striding out from the back to nick the ball away from Leeds as they looked to give their overworked defence a little bit of respite. Always assured on the ball, he gives the side such confidence. 8

Kevin McDonald: It isn't difficult to see why Jokanovic was raving about the Scot's influence after this game. Ran the show from that deep-lying defensive midfield position – breaking up Leeds attacks and keeping Fulham going even when the visitors worked up a serious spell of pressure in the second half. Seemed eager to get a goal from the outset, peppering the Leeds goal with efforts from long range but will freely admit that his goal was a bit of a fluke. 8

Stefan Johansen: Offered plenty of bite and energy at the heart of Fulham's midfield once again. The terrier-like Norwegian hassled and harried Leeds from the outset and at times seemed to be operating his own individual high-pressing game. Did superbly to inject some serious pace into the the break that followed Bettinelli's crucial save and led to the crucial Fulham second. Looks back to the superb run of form which he ended last season. 7

Tom Cairney: The skipper might not have got his customary goal against Leeds last night, but he produced another excellent performance to remind the Yorkshire club just how badly they erred in releasing him at 16. Cairney was pulling the strings from the centre of the park impressively, always finding an extra yard of space to play the extra pass. Laid on the second goal with a clever cut back for Mitrovic. 8

Floyd Ayite: Still not hitting the heights that he managed during the run in last year, but the Togolese winger was full of running all night. Should have put Fulham in front rather than slamming a shot against the post from Sessegnon's low cross, but gave Berardi a torrid time at left back with his eagerness to burst forward at every opportunity. 6

Ryan Sessegnon: The teenager made a real impact on his return to the starting line-up and seemed to be Fulham's most likely source of a breakthrough in the early stages. Caused Leeds' makeshift right back Stuart Dallas all manner of problems as he continually got free down the left flank and sent in several threatening crosses. Drifted inside to roam dangerously during the second half as the Whites looked to wrap up the contest and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself. 7

Aleksandar Mitrovic: The Leeds centre backs will know that were in a game after another imposing display from the Serbian striker. Passed up a couple of good chances early on, but his downward header from Targett's corner spun in off McDonald to give Fulham the lead. Continued to lead the line to great effect after the break and got the goal his dominant performance deserved when he clinically powered home just fourteen seconds after Bettinelli had bailed Fulham out at the other end. What a signing he has been. 8

Substitutes:

Ollie Norwood (replaced Floyd Ayite, 62): Introduced to shore up Fulham's midfield after Leeds got on top for the first time in the game during the second half. Got through plenty of work and prevented the likes of Hernandez and Saiz from striding through the centre of the park as often as they had been doing. 7

Tomas Kalas (replaced Kevin McDonald, 88): Sent on for McDonald to preserve the clean sheet with two minutes remaining as Fulham switched to three centre halves. 6



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Aleksandar Mitrovic makes it 8 in 8 – Remarkable Fulham run of form since he arrived

Undefeated in his 11 games, Fulham now have 27 points from possible 33 since Aleksandar Mitrovic arrived - a goal and assist last night.

The Aleksandar Mitrovic bandwagon rolls on at Craven Cottage.

Tuesday night saw Fulham pick up their latest win, beating Leeds 2-0 in West London.

Once again they were indebted to the Newcastle loan striker, who got an assist for the first goal and scored the second himself.

This makes it eight goals in his last eight matches for Mitro.

He has also contributed to a remarkable run of results since his arrival, with Fulham picking up 27 points from a possible 33 in the games Aleksandar Mitrovic has featured in – three draws and eight wins.

This has ensured at least a play-off spot for Fulham and with six games to go they still have some hope of catching Cardiff, currently five points ahead in the second automatic promotion spot.

Get West London player ratings last night:

'Mitrovic 8: Physical presence caused a problem and got an assist for the first goal. Got himself a goal when he got on the end of a lethal Fulham break.'

BBC Sport:

'Fulham showed why they are the Championship's form side with an impressive win over mid-table Leeds.

They dominated the early chances and eventually went ahead when Kevin McDonald deflected in Aleksandar Mitrovic's header from a corner.

The Serbia striker put the game to bed as he ended a flowing counter-attack after Caleb Ekuban spurned one of Leeds' best chances when put through.'

Slavisa Jokanovic:

"We're at the point of the season where we can still try to be successful, but we won't the final result know until the end of season.

"I am proud of how hard my team is working and how they try to push to win these games. I am proud because they've never given up.

"I don't know if we can catch Cardiff. I really can't answer this question. I only care about my team and that's it."



https://www.themag.co.uk/2018/04/aleksandar-mitrovic-makes-8-8-remarkable-fulham-run-form-since-arrived-newcastle-united/

Jokanovic lauds magnificent McDonald
by Dan on April 4, 2018

Slavisa Jokanovic heaped praise on the tireless work of Kevin McDonald after the Scottish midfielder produced a superb display to nullify Leeds United at Craven Cottage last night.

The Serbian head coach identified McDonald's role at the base of his progressive midfield as one of the key positions in the side and claimed that the newly-capped Scotland international doesn't always get the credit he deserves. The former Wolves midfielder grabbed a rare goal – although he knew little about his effort that broke the deadlock after Aleksandar Mitrovic's firm header from Matt Targett's corner flew in off his backside.

The Fulham boss waxed lyrical about McDonald's importance to the side during his post-match press conference:

    He has done great work for the team. He tries to find some balance, it's not an easy job for him because he must cover a big space. He must always have a high level.

    If you've followed Fulham all season you can recognise his value, his work. Normally you ask me about players who score the goals, about Ryan Sessegnon and Tom Cairney. Nobody asks about him but he's an important player for us and did a great job.



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