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General Category => Archive => Daily Fulham Stuff => Topic started by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 07:41:24 AM

Title: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 07:41:24 AM
http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/6417061/Gera-Cottagers-must-start-brightly? (http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/6417061/Gera-Cottagers-must-start-brightly?)
Gera: Cottagers must start brightly

Zoltan Gera has urged Fulham to focus from the first whistle in Saturday's Premier League clash against West Ham at Upton Park.

The Cottagers have claimed three draws from three Premier League away games so far this season, but lost last time out on their travels when beaten 2-0 at Stoke in the Carling Cup.

Having picked up points in the north west at Bolton, Blackpool and Blackburn, Mark Hughes' men are closer to home this weekend when they meet the improving Hammers in the East End.

Last season's equivalent fixture finished 2-2 this time last year, with Gera putting Fulham ahead in the 57th minute only for Junior Stanislas to rescue a point for the hosts in the closing stages.

And the Hungarian believes a positive opening is vital if his side are to earn a result.

Gera told the Daily Star: "We play West Ham this weekend and it's important to start well against them and frustrate the home crowd."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 07:42:40 AM
http://www.eastlondonadvertiser.co.uk:80/football/west-ham/tony_cottee_don_t_waste_the_spurs_win_west_ham_1_660116? (http://www.eastlondonadvertiser.co.uk:80/football/west-ham/tony_cottee_don_t_waste_the_spurs_win_west_ham_1_660116?)
Tony Cottee: "Don't waste the Spurs win West Ham"

West Ham legend Tony Cottee has urged the Hammers not to waste last weeks win against Tottenham by being complacent against Fulham on Saturday.

The East End club are still in the bottom three despite the win and the former striker is desperate to see his former side use the win as a platform for the remainder of the season.

"Everybody will be full of confidence following the win over Tottenham and desperate to get out onto the pitch again it is vital we don't waste that performance by dropping points this Saturday," he said.

"The Cottagers will be without three key men in Bobby Zamora, Andy Johnson and Moussa Dembele and I expect they will play Clint Dempsey on his own up front.

"They like to pack the midfield and although they have talented players like Danny Murphy in the middle of the park, I would expect us to win the game. Unless there are injuries I see no reason to change a winning team."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 07:43:42 AM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215276 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215276)
Fulham - MOTM v Everton?
Time to wrap up a loose end!

Like who, in the 0-0 draw with Everton, was voted by you, our Vital Fulham readership, as the man-of-the-match.

It was a very close affair with two players leading the race for this accolade.

In the end, it was Mark Schwarzer that just edged out Carlo Salcido by a mere 2% with the Australian getting 32% compared to the 30 of the Mexican.

Well done Mark from all at Vital Fulham!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215276#ixzz115SMCgmb (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215276#ixzz115SMCgmb)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 07:47:21 AM
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7943455/West-Ham-United-v-Fulham-match-preview.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7943455/West-Ham-United-v-Fulham-match-preview.html)
West Ham United v Fulham: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League game between West Ham United and Fulham at Upton Park on Saturday Oct 2 2010, kick-off 15:00 BST.

West Ham (Possible, 4-4-2): Green; Jacobsen, Da Costa, Upson, Gabbidon; Dyer, Parker, Noble, Boa Morte; Obinna, Piquionne.

Fulham (Possible, 4-4-2): Schwarzer; Kelly, Hangeland, Hughes, Salcido; Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Duff; Dempsey, Gera.
Referee: Andre Marriner. Matches: 5. R1 Y24.

Tale of the game
Fulham last won at Upton Park, in the League, in 2001. In six subsequent visits they have drawn three and lost three.

And they arrive to face a side boasting successive wins, against Sunderland in the Carling Cup, and the home Premier League victory over Spurs last weekend.

West Ham could be unchanged, meaning that Carlton Cole to start from the bench for the second successive game. Valon Behrami could be available after recovering from a knee problem but Thomas Hitzlsperger remains a doubt while Zavon Hines and Jack Collison are long-term absentees.

And that means that manager Mark Hughes has drawn 13 of his last 17 Premier League games, for Manchester City and Fulham.

But his injury problems are not getting any better. Strikers Bobby Zamora and Andrew Johnson are still absent while Moussa Dembele is still recovering from an ankle injury. So Zoltan Gera is set to continue in attack alongside Clint Dempsey.

Last season: West Ham 2 Fulham 2, Fulham 3 West Ham 2.

Stat of the game: Fulham arrive boasting an unbeaten start to the season and their best without loss since the 2000-01 season, when they won 11 and drew one of their opening 12 games in the old First Division. But it is their best ever unbeaten start in the top division, even though Fulham have drawn five of their six games.

Betting tip: This weekend could see a glut of draws, including this game. A 1-1 draw is 6-1.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 09:58:26 AM
http://www.tribalfootball.com/fulham-keeper-stockdale-fit-return-1151511? (http://www.tribalfootball.com/fulham-keeper-stockdale-fit-return-1151511?)
Fulham keeper Stockdale fit for return

Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale has declared himself fit for a first team return.

Injury last month not only saw him forced to drop out of Fulham reckoning, but also ended hope of a first call-up with England.

"Unfortunately injuries are part and parcel of the game but to miss out on my first England call-up was gutting," Stockdale told fulhamfc.com. "I'm a proud Englishman and it was heartbreaking to miss out on that. Now I've got to stay patient, keep working hard and wait for my opportunity at Fulham to come again. Obviously Mark [Schwarzer] is our number one keeper at the moment, but when my opportunity arises, I'm going to grab it with both hands and do my very best for the Team.

"I was bitterly disappointed to get injured against Blackpool after making my breakthrough. I'd put together a good run of games after waiting two years for my chance and I was showing the Manager, the Club and the fans what I could do. Before that, people didn't know what I could do."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 11:30:37 AM
http://www.goal.com/en/match/46056/west-ham-vs-fulham/preview (http://www.goal.com/en/match/46056/west-ham-vs-fulham/preview)
Premier League Preview: West Ham United - Fulham

Hammers Bang On Form

Less than a month into the new Premier League season West Ham United manager Avram Grant looked like a condemned man. No points from his first four games in charge of the club, the Hammers were rooted to the foot of the table, and murmers regarding the former Chelsea boss's future began to become audible.

West Ham secured their first point against Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium, while Grant was observing religious day of worship Yom Kippur, and his side haven't looked back since. They advanced further in the League Cup with a win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, before returning home to, perhaps most impressively, beat rivals Tottenham at Upton Park.

The Hammers are at home again on Saturday and showing a tendency towards attacking football. With the wind in their sails, they will fancy their chances against Fulham in this London derby.

Stubborn Cottagers Offer Tough Test

Fulham, though, are proving hard to beat. So hard to beat in fact that they've yet to lose a Premier League game this season, picking up a point against Manchester United and keeping clean sheets against Bolton Wanderers and struggling Everton.

As impressive as it sounds, however, the Cottagers have only won one of their first six games as well. While Mark Hughes has transformed his side into a more adaptable, expansive unit, the results are not entirely dissimilar to those of previous boss Roy Hodgson, who gained plenty of praise for stabilising the club in the Premier League.

Hughes may feel he can turn Fulham into a side capable of playing regular European football, and a win against West Ham could see them climb as high as fifth in the table at this early stage.

TEAM NEWS

West Ham United

The Hammers are without Thomas Hitzlsperger, who is yet to play a competitive game for the club, until mid-October, but Valon Behrami could return after a knee problem.

Young prospects Jack Collison and Zavon Hines are both still unavailable due to long-term injury problems.

Possible starting XI: Green; Jacobsen, Da Costa, Upson, Gabbidon; Dyer, Parker, Noble, Boa Morte; Piquionne, Obinna.

Fulham

Mark Hughes' options in attack are severely limited by injury, as Bobby Zamora and Andrew Johnson are still out, though the latter is nearing a return from a long-term problem.

Moussa Dembele is yet to fully recover from a knock picked up in the League Cup against Stoke City, so Clint Dempsey is likely to start as a striker.

Possible starting XI: Schwarzer; Kelly, Hughes, Hangeland, Salcido; Davies, Murphy, Etuhu, Duff; Gera; Dempsey.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 11:31:56 AM
http://www.whufc.com/articles/20101001/fulham-match-preview_2236884_2171163? (http://www.whufc.com/articles/20101001/fulham-match-preview_2236884_2171163?)
Fulham match preview
All the early team news and background for Saturday's home match against Fulham

• West Ham United are seeking to extend their unbeaten run to four matches in all competitions when they welcome Fulham to the Boleyn Ground. The Hammers drew 1-1 at Stoke City on Saturday 18 September before winning 2-1 at Sunderland in the Carling Cup third round on Tuesday 21 September. Last weekend, Tottenham Hotspur were beaten 1-0 at the Boleyn Ground as West Ham climbed off the bottom of the Barclays Premier League table.
• Both clubs have new managers from the summer. Avram Grant's arrival at the Hammers was followed quickly by Mark Hughes replacing Roy Hodgson at Craven Cottage.
• It has been a good week for the Hammers with Scott Parker, Carlton Cole and Mark Noble representing the club at No10 Downing Street on Thursday to hand in the club's formal bid for the Olympic Stadium after the 2012 Games. The club - in partnership with Newham Council - propose a 60,000-seater stadium that would have multi-sport use and be of lasting benefit to the wider community in east London.
• Fulham remain unbeaten in their opening six Premier League matches, drawing five of them. The Cottagers go into this weekend's game seventh in the table, having collected eight points.
• Avram Grant's side face Stoke City at home in the Carling Cup fourth round on Wednesday 27 October. Ticket prices have again been slashed by the club, with season ticket holders able to secure their seat for just £15 for adults and £5 for children. Non-season ticket holders can buy their seat for £20 for adults and £10 for children.
• If selected, Fulham's Damien Duff will be making his 300th appearance in the Barclays Premier League. Team-mate Danny Murphy is on 48 goals.
• Freddie Piquionne was presented with a Nike golden ball on Friday after last Saturday heading in the 10,000th goal scored with a Nike ball in the Barclays Premier League.
• West Ham have not lost at home to Fulham in the Premier League since 3 November 2001. Since then, the Hammers are unbeaten in six meetings, winning three of them. During that run, however, the Cottagers did leave the Boleyn Ground with a 3-0 FA Cup fifth-round replay victory in February 2004.
• West Ham have won eight of the 14 all-time Premier League meetings between the two clubs, losing just two.
• Saturday's is the 77th league meeting between the two sides. West Ham have won 34, Fulham have won 25 and there have been 17 draws.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 11:33:08 AM
http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/10/west-ham-united-v-fulham-capital-pride-is-up-for-grabs-at-the-boleyn.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29 (http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/10/west-ham-united-v-fulham-capital-pride-is-up-for-grabs-at-the-boleyn.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29)
West Ham United v Fulham: Capital pride is up for grabs at the Boleyn

There's no better way to record your first league win of the season than against your bitter rivals in front of your home fans. Frederic Piquionne's 29th minute header in an action-packed match at the Boleyn Ground was enough to send the Hammers fans home happy and lift the weight off of Avram Grant's shoulders.

The former Chelsea and Portsmouth manager has been under intense pressure at Upton Park following a poor start to the season but results over the past two weeks have certainly given the fans something to smile about as they vacated the foot of the table.

Looking to bring the Hammers back down to Earth with an almighty thud though is Mark Hughes and Fulham. The Cottagers are one of only two Premier League teams yet to taste defeat in the league this season and start the weekend just outside the European places.

Hughes's men are a resilient bunch. They never know when to give up. They've fought back from going behind four times this season and play right up to the final whistle. They may not have the best away record in the world but they will give the Hammers a proper game.

West Ham haven't lost to Fulham at home in the league since 2001 but Fulham, buoyed by their Europa League run, were unbeaten against the Hammers last season and Grant's men will need to be on top of their game to keep their good run going.

The Hammers could escape the bottom three for the first time this season with victory this weekend but Fulham are the draw specialists so far and I wouldn't be surprised if this one ended with the honours being shared.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 11:34:48 AM
http://www.whufc.com/articles/20100930/great-dane_2236884_2170958? (http://www.whufc.com/articles/20100930/great-dane_2236884_2170958?)
Great Dane
Lars Jacobsen is looking forward to facing old pal Brede Hangeland when Fulham visit on Saturday

Lars Jacobsen will come up against an old friend when West Ham United take on Fulham on Saturday.

The Hammers right-back spent 18 months as part of the same back four as Cottagers centre-half Brede Hangeland during a hugely successful spell at FC Copenhagen.

The pair won back-to-back Superliga titles in 2006 and 2007, while both started when the Danish giants defeated Manchester United 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League group stage in November 2006.

Nearly three years later and Jacobsen will come face to face - or rather face to shoulder considering the full-back is 6ft and Hangeland 6ft 5in - again in the Barclays Premier League.

The clash will bring back fond memories for West Ham defender, who talks about his time at Copenhagen in Saturday's official matchday programme.

"I had three-and-a-half fantastic years at Copenhagen," said Jacobsen. "I won three championships and the cup. We played in the Champions League too, so that was probably the best part of my career so far.

"We had a very good team and were very solid. We lost 3-0 to Manchester United at Old Trafford where we tried but we weren't good enough. We then beat them 1-0 at home which shows what type of team we were. We had some good quality in the team."

Having arrived at the Boleyn Ground via spells at Everton and Blackburn Rovers, Jacobsen is eager to continue the encouraging start he has made to his career in claret and blue.

The defender also talks about his formative years at OB Odense, his country's fine footballing heritage, the role of a modern full-back and his successful career with the Danish national team.

ORDER YOUR COPY OF SATURDAY'S MATCHDAY PROGRAMME
As always, the latest edition of matchday programme is crammed full of interviews, features and photographs.

Supporters can read the exclusive views of Chairman David Gold and manager Avram Grant, while also getting the latest news on the club's bid to ensure a lasting community legacy for the Olympic Stadium.

Another of the new boys, Victor Obinna, delves into the Fans' Mailbag, while Junior Stanislas is the latest Hammer to Challenge Kieron and Striker Clive Allen answers the question Where Are They Now?

With all this, plus the latest from the club's reserve, youth and Ladies teams, up to date statistics and much, much more, fans cannot afford to miss out on securing their copy.

Priced £3.50, the matchday programme will be available in and around the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. Alternatively, you can order online by clicking the above link.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 11:36:38 AM
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/AaronWestHamPreview.aspx (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/AaronWestHamPreview.aspx)
Derby Day
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Hughes/general1-1011.jpg)

Fulham travel across the Capital this weekend for a derby day at Upton Park and Mark Hughes' Team will be hoping to build on three impressive recent away performances against Bolton, Blackpool and Blackburn.

Fulham and Manchester United remain the only teams left unbeaten in the Barclays Premier League this season and Hughes' side will be looking to build on that record by claiming an elusive away win on Saturday, as Aaron Hughes explained to fulhamfc.com.

"Our away form is something we'd like to improve," said Hughes. "If we can keep our home form strong, as it has been in the last few seasons, and pick up a few extra points on the road then that would be fantastic.

"It's not something [away record] we're overly concerned about in terms of it having a negative impact on us. We just want to do well in all our games, whether they're home or away.

"Hopefully as we progress we'll pick up a few extra points on the road. It's a bit of a cliché but there are no easy games, especially away from home. When you're on another team's ground there will always be spells when they have possession and pressure.

"Away from home we might have a bit more of a go but that's something that depends on the game. There are times when you can be a bit more attacking – it's about recognising those opportunities and capitalising on them. When we're under pressure we know we've got two good banks of four working hard to stop the opposition.

"The good thing is the performances we've had away from home have been pretty good and we're still unbeaten. There are still a few new things we're getting used to but we're working on them and taking them onboard. We're going in the right direction."

Fulham's attacking approach under Mark Hughes has earned the Club high praise indeed this season and Fulham's Northern Ireland international defender is clearly pleased with the progress his side are making this year following Roy Hodgson's departure during the summer.

"There are always going to be changes when a new manager comes in," Hughes explained. "You can't put your finger on one thing – there are lots of little things and the lads here are good at taking new things on board. For example you see Dickson getting in the box more and scoring, like he did against Blackpool.

"It's a mix of new fresh ideas and the lads at Fulham are very responsive to taking things on board and going with what the Manager wants. We're not getting ahead of ourselves but we've got the basis of a good, solid Premier League side. Hopefully we can continue to get positive results.

"First and foremost our primary aim is to secure our Premier League status. The sooner we get to that point the better - then we can have a look at where we are and where we might go. The first priority is to ensure we're playing top flight football again next year and take it from there."

Fulham will have to do without Mousa Dembele again this weekend but Hughes remains confident that even without Dembele and Bobby Zamora, Fulham possess a potent attacking force to cause West Ham problems on Saturday.

"Mousa's been a fantastic signing for us," said Hughes. "In the games that he's played he's shown that he's adapted to the Premier League straight away. He's done really well. Obviously it's a big loss losing Bobby, especially considering the form he's been in over the past 12 months or so, but we've got lads here that can do a good job.

"AJ is coming back which is good and fingers crossed he can be back with us soon. We've got Eddie, Clint and Zolly and there are plenty of lads in the Team that can score goals."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/AaronWestHamPreview.aspx#ixzz116P184V4 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/AaronWestHamPreview.aspx#ixzz116P184V4)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 12:42:40 PM
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/EtuhuWestHamPreview.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/EtuhuWestHamPreview.aspx?)
Etuhu's Weekend Preview
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Etuhu/General1.jpg)

By Dickson Etuhu:


Like the rest of the country, I will be glued to my television set on Sunday afternoon watching Chelsea take on Arsenal. I don't watch a lot of football when I am not playing but this game is one that you just can't miss and I dare say that my whole street will be quiet as everyone tunes in.

Chelsea must be the favourites even though they lost to Manchester City last weekend. They are so strong and powerful at the moment and have pace all over the pitch and seem to be able to compete against any style of football thrown at them be it long balls or Arsenal's intricate passing game.

I have never managed to get the better of them during my career although Fulham did record a 2-2 draw in my third League game for the club in December 2008.

Arsenal just have to make sure they don't concede the first goal because once Chelsea are ahead they very rarely lose. Didier Drogba has been the difference between the two teams in recent encounters and I think that will be the same again on Sunday. I will be watching with my two younger brothers Kelvin and Michael who are coming down from Manchester for the weekend.

Kelvin is a striker with Manchester City and is just getting back to his best after injuries blighted his past few seasons. He was on loan at Cardiff City last year and played in the play-off final defeat against Blackpool but is now desperate to succeed at Eastlands.

Neither Kelvin or myself are the talented ones of the family, though - that is 25-year-old Michael. He has both the brains and the athleticism but he doesn't play anymore, he is just not interested. We are always telling him that he could have made it all the way to the top in the game yet, after playing for the old Wimbledon team before they moved to Milton Keynes, he decided that he wanted to make the most of his academic ability and went to University.

(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Etuhu/EtuhuScores.jpg)

Michael was a fantastic central midfielder like me and he is now my biggest critic! We get together as often as possible and he is always knit-picking my performances, not that I mind because he comes to watch me as often as he can, especially at Fulham's game in the north.

Before settling down to watch one London derby on Sunday, though, Fulham have their own capital clash with West Ham to look forward to. We are unbeaten at the moment and want to stay that way. The manager Mark Hughes has made us a very difficult side to beat but we know that it will be a tough game at Upton Park, it always is.

One Fulham player that we hope to have involved again soon is Andy Johnson and the timing of his return from eight months out with a knee problem could not be better as Bobby Zamora and Mousa Dembele are both now out injured.

Andy has had a really tough time but I cannot believe how well he has looked after himself. Most players who are out injured put on a few pounds yet he looks as light as a feather.

He played most of a behind closed doors friendly at the training ground yesterday and was looking really sharp. Andy will give us a new dimension when he is eventually back in the first team because he has that ability to run in behind defences and take any opportunity that comes his way.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/EtuhuWestHamPreview.aspx?#ixzz116fd2Imp (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/EtuhuWestHamPreview.aspx?#ixzz116fd2Imp)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 12:46:48 PM
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9042038.stm? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9042038.stm?)
BBC REVIEW: West Ham    v    Fulham

TEAM NEWS
West Ham's Kieron Dyer is fit again after he was forced off through illness in the first-half of last weekend's victory over Tottenham.

Thomas Hitzlsperger is not yet fit enough to make his debut, but fellow midfielder Valon Behrami could return.

Fulham's Andrew Johnson is not ready for a first-team comeback and remains on the sidelines, along with Bobby Zamora and Moussa Dembele.

Zoltan Gera is likely to continue in attack with Clint Dempsey.

West Ham
Doubtful: Behrami (knee)
Injured: Collison, Hines & Kurucz (all knee), Hitzlsperger (thigh)

Fulham
Injured: Dembele & Stockdale (both ankle), A Johnson (knee), Senderos (Achilles), Stoor (groin), Zamora (leg)

MATCH PREVIEW
West Ham have spent the week rejoicing over a derby victory against Tottenham that their co-owner David Sullivan described as "the sweetest win".
   
They have a new manager and some new players and I think they need time... It's going to be a tough game for us, no question
Fulham midfielder Zoltan Gera


There has been an air of defiance coming out of Upton Park, and goalkeeper Rob Green's 'stick it' gesture to the press box after their first league win of the season showed that a new-found spirit is starting to course through the club after their dismal start to the campaign.

Defender Matthew Upson said it was the best the Hammers had played for two seasons. The three points failed to lift them out of the relegation zone, but they are now blessed with another home fixture as they bid to extend their unbeaten run in all competitions to four matches.

Fulham are one of only two unbeaten teams left in the Premier League, and although manager Mark Hughes must be delighted with their resilient start, he knows that their fixture list has been kind and they need to start turning draws into victories.

He must also be working hard on getting his team to improve on their notoriously bad record on the road, given that they have failed to win any of their last 21 away matches in the league.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
• Fulham have only won two of their 14 Premier League meetings with West Ham: their first, in 2001, and their last, back in May.
• The Cottagers last won at Upton Park in the league in 2001. In six subsequent visits they have drawn three and lost three.
• This is the 85th meeting between the sides. West Ham have won 36, Fulham 29 and there have been 19 draws.

West Ham
• Victor Obinna has had more shots (18) in the Premier League without scoring than any other player this season.
• All four of West Ham's goals this season have come from set pieces.
• Carlton Cole has scored in each of his last four league matches against Fulham.
• If selected, Robert Green will be making his 400th club career appearance.

Fulham
• Mark Hughes has drawn 13 of his last 17 Premier League games as a manager.
• Fulham are only the second team in Premier League history (after Ipswich in 1992-93) to draw five of their first six games.
• Fulham have won only three of the 41 Premier League London derbies they have played away from home.
• Damien Duff is in line for his 300th appearance in top-flight football.

LEADING GOALSCORERS
West Ham
Parker: 3 goals (2 league); Piquionne: 2 goals (1 league)

Fulham
Dembele: 3 goals (2 league); Zamora: 3 goals (1 league)

MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Andre Marriner
Assistant referees: Darren Cann & Martin Yerby
Fourth official: Andy D'Urso

LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS
West Ham (W1-0 v Tottenham, h): Green, Jacobsen, da Costa, Upson, Gabbidon, Dyer (Barrera 42), Parker, Noble, Boa Morte, Obinna (Kovac 89), Piquionne (Cole 64). Subs not used: Stech, Ben-Haim, McCarthy, Faubert.

Fulham (D0-0 v Everton, h): Schwarzer, Kelly (Baird 28), Hangeland, Hughes, Salcido, Davies (Kamara 71), Etuhu, Murphy, Duff, Dempsey, Gera (Eddie Johnson 55). Subs not used: Etheridge, Riise, Greening, Halliche.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 12:48:43 PM
http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/hughes-facing-striker-headache-1103164.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/hughes-facing-striker-headache-1103164.html?)
Hughes facing striker headache

Fulham face a striker crisis ahead of Saturday's trip to West Ham with Andy Johnson, Moussa Dembele and Bobby Zamora all ruled out.

Johnson is close to a return after a lengthy lay-off with a knee injury but is yet to regain full match fitness and will play no part against the Hammers.

Zamora suffered a serious leg injury in the victory over Wolves and will not be available until the latter stages of the season.

Dembele's ankle injury is not as bad as was first feared but the striker will still be sidelined for up to three weeks, although he could return after the international break for the Cottagers' home tie against Spurs.

Fulham boss Mark Hughes will also be without goalkeeper David Stockdale (ankle), defender Philippe Senderos (Achilles) and defender Fredrik Stoor (groin) on Saturday.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 01:14:16 PM
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/44537/Hammers_hope_for_more_capital_cheer.aspx? (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/44537/Hammers_hope_for_more_capital_cheer.aspx?)
Hammers hope for more capital cheer

There is an all-London affair at Upton Park on Saturday to look forward to as a resurgent West Ham United team go head-to-head with Fulham.

The Hammers will be that bit happier after they picked up their first win of the season last weekend as they landed a 1-0 triumph over Tottenham Hotspur.

Frederic Piquionne's effort proved to be enough in the capital and manager Avram Grant can breathe a little easier.
However, the men in claret and blue remain in the bottom three with just four points from their opening six points of the campaign.

Consecutive defeats to Aston Villa (3-0), Bolton Wanderers (3-1), Manchester United (3-0) and Chelsea (3-1) made for grim viewing, but a battling 1-1 draw at Stoke City and last week's confidence-boosting victory against Spurs has lifted the spirits in east London.

Instrumental skipper Scott Parker impressed in the triumph while newcomers Victor Obinna and Pablo Barrera are starting to threaten in attack, much to the delight of their long-suffering supporters.

Saturday's contest should be a tricky one for the hosts, though. New Cottagers coach Mark Hughes is yet to taste a Premier League setback this term and will want this telling statistic to continue.

One win and five draws has propelled the club into seventh position and Hughes appears to be continuing the good work started by the now departed Roy Hodgson.

With Mark Schwarzer supported admirably by Aaron Hughes, Brede Hangeland, Carlos Salcido and Stephen Kelly, Fulham are proving to be a tough nut to crack as they base their solid foundation on a capable defensive unit.

The tried and trusted Simon Davies, Damien Duff, Clint Dempsey and Danny Murphy make up a fine midfield and, if Hughes gets things right this term, they could be an outside bet to secure a place in the Europa League at the end of the season.

Long-term knee victims Zavon Hines and Jack Collison will not return until the new year, but Switzerland international Valon Behrami is nearing full fitness. Thomas Hitzlsperger (thigh) is rated as a doubt though and this fixture may come too soon for him.

Hughes is without in-form striker Moussa Dembele, who has an ankle problem, while the stricken Bobby Zamora will be out for some time after suffering a broken ankle in the side's 2-1 win over Wolves.

Andrew Johnson (knee) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles) are others who are missing for a considerable amount of time.
The two sides played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the most recent Premier League clash at Upton Park last October.
A fine header from Carlton Cole placed the hosts in front and they had further reason for cheer as South African Kagisho Dikgacoi was dismissed before the interval.

But Fulham stormed out of the blocks after the resumption and went ahead when a penalty from Murphy and a Zoltan Gera effort shocked the Hammers to the core. However. with the game all but over, Junior Stanislas' strike two minutes into added time rescued a point for the hosts.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 02:21:46 PM
http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/10/away_jinx_to_end.php? (http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/10/away_jinx_to_end.php?)
Away Jinx to End?
Posted by Phil Mison
The fixture list again deals us opponents from the bottom three. A significant improvement against the Hammers is a must if Fulham are to break that away hoodoo. Our history at Upton Park is not great.

Last week the portents ahead of Everton's arrival at the Cottage were all good, but we failed to deliver and probably should have lost. In modern times we've managed to beat the Hammers just twice in the Prem. Over a period where our East London rivals have often struggled, including relegation, we have only last May's victory at the Cottage and our encounter from November 2001 at their place to reflect upon with satisfaction.

On that occasion goals from Legwinski and Malbranque were the difference. Perhaps we need some more French players back in the ranks? West Ham have a few, including striker Piquionne, who will need watching. Ironically, he's keeping Carlton Cole out of the side, who has the taste for scoring against us. Let's hope he doesn't get on the pitch.

The Hammers faltering start to the season had much to do with collective panic at the back and on-going uncertainty from Robert Green (now a folk hero to our USA followers). Among their 4 defeats to date have been Man U and Chelsea, but they look to have turned a corner with no defeats in three, starting with a battling draw at Stoke (why can't we do that?), a win at Sunderland in the Carling Cup and then a victory to relish last week over Spurs.

Enough of our opponents. I was reminded this week watching Liverpool on the back foot throughout at Utrecht how intrinsic confidence out on the pitch is to a performance. Fernando Torres at present has none whatsoever. Torres is clearly a brilliant striker, but the genie has fled the bottle for the moment. It was only two seasons ago we witnessed the same lack of composure and self belief for a prolonged spell from our own 'Bobby Dazzler,' lashing shots wildly into the crowd while too scared to take on his man.

Victory at Upton Park requires a re-think in how we set up the team. A strong start from the Whites would make a welcome departure from recent games. West Ham may feel they have the wind in their sails but to my mind they remain brittle at the back. It won't take much to get the crowd on their case and see them revert to type. Hughes must I feel gamble and send out a team to dictate play. This is one side - apart from Parker - who should not be capable of bullying us out of our stride.

Word is we may be going with Dio Kamara and EJ up front. I think that's a big ask of two players not known for their ruthless finishing in recent times. Paramount is more guile and craft from midfield. Can we accommodate Dempsey and Gera wide here to pull the Hammers defence apart and serve the front two, both of whom do not lack for pace? Neither Davies nor Duff are providing any penetration at the moment.

This should be our last fixture before we welcome AJ and Moussa back into the mix. As with our trip to Blackburn I'd settle for another draw to maintain the unbeaten start, but an all-round more vibrant team showing is just as important. How sweet would it be to finally get that away win - at the 22nd attempt - off the Hammers.

COYW
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 03:28:02 PM
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/1498/5/johnson-nears-fulham-first-team-return (http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/1498/5/johnson-nears-fulham-first-team-return)
Johnson nears Fulham first-team return

(http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_news_article_header_image/andy%20johnson.jpg)

Andy Johnson took the first steps on the road to recovery this week by completing 60 minutes in a behind closed doors friendly for Fulham.

The striker has been out since January after damaging his knee against Blackburn and his progress has been halted by a succession of other problems.

But Johnson, capped eight times by England, is now on the comeback trail after playing for Fulham on Wednesday at the club's Motspur Park training ground.

The 29-year-old played against the Fulham youth team and lasted an hour before he was hauled off and his return to action has come at the right time for Mark Hughes.

Fulham manager Hughes has Bobby Zamora out with a broken leg while Moussa Dembele is also injured but Johnson is now ready to give him a big boost by returning to action in the next few weeks.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 03:29:33 PM
http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/10/01/stephen-kelly-out-of-fulham-west-ham-clash-64767-27381546/? (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/10/01/stephen-kelly-out-of-fulham-west-ham-clash-64767-27381546/?)
Stephen Kelly out of Fulham - West Ham clash

STEPHEN Kelly will miss the trip across London for the clash at West Ham after suffering a torn calf muscle last week.

The right-back slot is almost certain to be taken by John Pantsil, but otherwise the Whites have no fresh injuries ahead of a game where the west Londoners will take close to 2,000 fans for the short hop.

Boss Mark Hughes welcomes the extra support for a team whose fans are often creviced into one corner of a Premiership ground.

He said: "I think supporters do make a difference, but it's not cheap following a team around the league.
"That said, I don't think the level of support we've had has made a difference to our away results. But getting results on the road will be key to whether we have a good season or not."

Also missing Upton Park are strikers Bobby Zamora and Mousa Dembele and keeper David Stockdale, but there was good news for striker Andy Johnson this week.

The £10million forward, out since January, got 60 minutes under his belt against a Fulham reserve side this week, and is due to play a full 90 in another friendly on Tuesday.

Hughes said: "I was looking for all the signs he might be feeling it - but apart from a little stiffness he came through fine - and we have other games arranged for Andy over the next two weeks."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 03:31:35 PM
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/HughesWestHamPreview.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/HughesWestHamPreview.aspx?)
Right on Track
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Management/Hughes/General3.jpg)

Manager Mark Hughes insists that his team is right on track six games into the 2010/11 Barclays Premier League campaign.

The Whites travel to West Ham United on Saturday for their first London derby of the season unbeaten and occupying seventh spot in the table.

He told fulhamfc.com: "I'm very pleased with the start that we have made; we have to be because this is a very competitive league. We go to West Ham unbeaten, and we can take a lot from that.

"I think Manchester United are the only other team not to lose a game so far – so we're in very good company in that respect. It's very satisfying.

"As I have said on previous occasions, I have been very impressed with what I have seen so far and this is a great group of players that are working extremely hard for one another. They understand what myself and the coaches want and we're seeing that when they're out on the field.

"As a result it has been a decent start, but we want and need to be consistent throughout the whole season and I can see no reason why we can't continue in the same vein. We have targets and objectives that we want to hit, and at this moment in time we are on track."

Despite their place in the bottom three, Saturday's opponents also enjoy a good run of form, with Avram Grant's side unbeaten in three games having secured an impressive 1-0 defeat of Tottenham Hotspur last weekend.

"In fairness, they have had a really difficult start, so we shouldn't read too much into the position they find themselves in the table," said Hughes. "They've already faced Aston Villa and Manchester United away and Chelsea at home – games that at any point of the season are tough.

"They're on a good run of form now and will take a lot from that victory against Tottenham. They're unbeaten in three games and given the fixture list that they have had it's been a reasonable start for them.

"They possibly have a bit more confidence now, something, which of course, comes from winning games. They [West Ham] have found their feet and they're moving forward. So it's a difficult match for us, Upton Park is not an easy place to go so we'll have to be on our toes."

Fulham have taken three points from three games on the road this season, and still search for that long awaited away league victory – a run that stretches back to August 15th 2009 where a Bobby Zamora goal undid Portsmouth at Fratton Park.

"We're trying to turn that around, and it's going to be the key to whether we have a good season or not," assessed Hughes. "We have to be better on the road, and having had three difficult away fixtures so far we are pleased to remain unbeaten, so of course, we view that as progress.

"We do need a bit of luck perhaps, and all three points on Saturday would go a long way in addressing the problem. To be honest, I think we have been very positive away from home and I think that is the way to turn things around - we have to take the initiative and capitalise when we have the momentum.

"Obviously we would like to start winning on our travels and give those fans that are travelling an enjoyable experience. It's been a long time coming, and it's about time we put that right."

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/HughesWestHamPreview.aspx?#ixzz117MAcCGq (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/HughesWestHamPreview.aspx?#ixzz117MAcCGq)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 04:03:45 PM
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/WestHamInjuryNews.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/WestHamInjuryNews.aspx?)
Forward Momentum
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Management/Hughes/Conf1.jpg)

Manager Mark Hughes believes Fulham have the firepower to outgun West Ham United on Saturday despite the absence of two key strikers.

Having impressed since his arrival at Craven Cottage, the Whites will still be without Belgian flyer Mousa Dembélé at Upton Park, with former Hammers' favourite Bobby Zamora three weeks into a lengthy lay-off.

Speaking to fulhamfc.com the Manager revealed: "Mousa won't be available unfortunately – he still hasn't recovered. He's a non-starter, and as we know, Bobby is out for a significant amount of time. It's fair to say that that area of the pitch has had bit of a hit in recent weeks.

"But we're getting other players back. Andrew Johnson played this week and had a good 60-minute workout in a game between the Development Squad and those other players that needed a run out.

"I have to say, he looked very good and I was really pleased with what I saw. He was sharp, and no signs of apprehension which can sometimes be the case. Andrew looked comfortable and confident in his ability and fitness.

"I know he was very pleased with how it went, and now he just needs a bit more game time. But we won't rush him back into the equation, and I wouldn't like to put a timescale on his return, but it's very close.

"He'll have another game behind closed doors next Tuesday and hopefully at some point soon he'll get a full 90 minutes under his belt. At some point he will be an option for us, which in light of the injuries of late is very, very good news.

"He'll be like a new signing for us and we're delighted for him because he's worked really hard to get back to where he is.

"We have other options too, and the likes of Clint Dempsey and Zoltan Gera have experience in playing up front. Joe Kamara is an option as well now, and then there is Eddie Johnson too, and both came off the bench against Everton last Saturday and did well."

Fulham will also be without David Stockdale and Stephen Kelly, although both are expected to be in contention after the international break.

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/WestHamInjuryNews.aspx?#ixzz117UI7uAM (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/WestHamInjuryNews.aspx?#ixzz117UI7uAM)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 04:04:46 PM
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/WeekendTravelUpdate.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/WeekendTravelUpdate.aspx?)
Weekend Travel Update

Supporters planning on making the trip to Upton Park this Saturday should note that maintenance works on the District Line could affect their travel time.

The line will be suspended on Saturday and Sunday between Earls Court, Ealing Broadway and Richmond. Rail replacement buses will operate.

Supporters are advised to check the Transport for London website for the latest travel news.

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/WeekendTravelUpdate.aspx?#ixzz117UXnU00 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/WeekendTravelUpdate.aspx?#ixzz117UXnU00)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 04:06:15 PM
http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2010/1001/westham_fulham.html? (http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2010/1001/westham_fulham.html?)
West Ham United v Fulham

Kieron Dyer could miss West Ham's Barclays Premier League clash with Fulham tomorrow through illness.

The midfielder has been suffering with diarrhoea all week after coming off during last week's win over Tottenham.

Valon Behrami (knee) and Thomas Hitzlsperger (thigh) are out while Hammers boss Avram Grant will give late fitness tests to Winston Reid, Jonathan Spector and Herita Ilunga (all leg).

Goalkeeper David Stockdale is in contention for West Ham after recovering from an ankle injury.

The 25-year-old was preferred to Mark Schwarzer for the opening four games of the season and will hope to give manager Mark Hughes a selection headache.

The Cottagers remain short in attack, with Moussa Dembele (ankle) and Bobby Zamora (broken leg) sidelined, although Andrew Johnson played in a behind-closed-doors game yesterday and is working his way back to full fitness after eight months out through knee problems.

West Ham squad: Green, Jacobsen, Tomkins, Upson, Ilunga, Parker, Noble, Piquionne, Boa Morte, Dyer, Cole, Obinna, Kovac, Faubert, Stech, Barrera, Ben Haim, Gabbidon, Da Costa, Reid, Spector.

West Ham United squad: Schwarzer, Kelly, Pantsil, Salcido, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Halliche, Gera, Murphy, Duff, Riise, Etuhu, Dempsey, E Johnson, Greening, Davies, Dikgacoi, Kamara, Stockdale.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 04:25:32 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1316879/West-Ham-v-FULHAM-David-Stockdale-return-gives-Mark-Hughes-goalkeeping-dilemma.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1316879/West-Ham-v-FULHAM-David-Stockdale-return-gives-Mark-Hughes-goalkeeping-dilemma.html?)
West Ham v FULHAM: David Stockdale return gives Mark Hughes goalkeeping dilemma

Goalkeeper David Stockdale is in contention for Fulham's trip to West Ham after recovering from an ankle injury.

The 25-year-old was preferred to Mark Schwarzer for the opening four games of the season and will hope to give manager Mark Hughes a selection headache.

The Cottagers remain short in attack, with Moussa Dembele (ankle) and Bobby Zamora (broken leg) sidelined, although Andrew Johnson played in a behind-closed-doors game yesterday and is working his way back to full fitness after eight months out through knee problems.

Team (from): Schwarzer, Kelly, Pantsil, Salcido, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Halliche, Gera, Murphy, Duff, Riise, Etuhu, Dempsey, E Johnson, Greening, Davies, Dikgacoi, Kamara, Stockdale.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1316879/West-Ham-v-FULHAM-David-Stockdale-return-gives-Mark-Hughes-goalkeeping-dilemma.html?#ixzz117ZgzaIg (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1316879/West-Ham-v-FULHAM-David-Stockdale-return-gives-Mark-Hughes-goalkeeping-dilemma.html?#ixzz117ZgzaIg)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 04:27:40 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1316889/WEST-HAM-v-Fulham-Kieron-Dyer-major-doubt-ahead-London-derby.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1316889/WEST-HAM-v-Fulham-Kieron-Dyer-major-doubt-ahead-London-derby.html?)
WEST HAM v Fulham: Kieron Dyer a major doubt ahead of London derby

Kieron Dyer could miss West Ham's Barclays Premier League clash with Fulham through illness.

The midfielder has been suffering with diarrhoea all week after coming off during last week's win over Tottenham.

Valon Behrami (knee) and Thomas Hitzlsperger (thigh) are out while Hammers boss Avram Grant will give late fitness tests to Winston Reid, Jonathan Spector and Herita Ilunga (all leg).

Team (from): Green, Jacobsen, Tomkins, Upson, Ilunga, Parker, Noble, Piquionne, Boa Morte, Dyer, Cole, Obinna, Kovac, Faubert, Stech, Barrera, Ben Haim, Gabbidon, Da Costa, Reid, Spector.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1316889/WEST-HAM-v-Fulham-Kieron-Dyer-major-doubt-ahead-London-derby.html?#ixzz117aFhNH6 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1316889/WEST-HAM-v-Fulham-Kieron-Dyer-major-doubt-ahead-London-derby.html?#ixzz117aFhNH6)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 04:29:10 PM
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/10/1/1724291/my-five-keys-to-victory-for-fulham-against-west-ham? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/10/1/1724291/my-five-keys-to-victory-for-fulham-against-west-ham?)
My Five Keys To Victory For Fulham Against West Ham - Match Preview

This Saturday, Fulham will be on the road playing West Ham at Upton Park. The game takes place at 3PM UK Time and 10 AM EST. The game will not be shown on television in the United States. However, there is another option online. You can watch the game on Foxsoccer.tv live.This is a subscription based service that I would recommend. 

This game will be very diffcult for Fulham to come away with a victory. Fulham are coming off another draw from the game last Saturday at home against Everton. Fulham could have problems scoring goals with their injuries to their key strikers. It will probably be up to players like Zoltan Gera and Clint Dempsey to be the scoring threats tomorrow against West Ham.   

West Ham have started slow this season. They currently sit 19th in the table. However, they are coming off of an impressive 1-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur. 

Last season, Fulham beat West Ham 3-2 at Craven Cottage. The teams played to a 2-2 draw at Upton Park.

Avram Grant is the manager of West Ham. Players to watch include Scott Parker and Frederic Piquionne. Scott Parker is a very dangerous central midfielder. He has already scored 3 goals so far for West Ham in all competitions. Frederic Piquionne is a very accomplished striker. Fulham reportedly were very interested in this player over the summer. He scored the game winning goal for West Ham last week against Tottenham.

As I do before every match I do my 5 "keys" that I hope will lead to 3 points for Fulham. Below are " My 5 Keys To Victory For Fulham Against West Ham."

1. Fulham need to do a much better job defending set pieces. Until Fulham do a better job defending set pieces I will probably have this as one of my keys in every match. It is an extremely important key this week. West Ham have scored four goals this season from set pieces. Fulham need to defend very well on these plays or they could lose.



2. Fulham need to create scoring chances from set pieces.  With Fulham's issue lately on scoring goals, set pieces could be great opportunities to score a goal. I look for Brede Hangeland to be very important on these plays. Damien Duff could alslo be integral in creating scoring opportunities from set pieces.   

3. Fulham need to contain Frederic Piquionne. He is a striker that I think is very dangerous. He impressed me last season when he played for Portsmouth. It will be up to the central defenders to mark him very well. I look for Hangeland and Hughes to play big roles in this key.   

4. Carlos Salcido needs to be involved in scoring opportunities. Salcido has already shown me his offensive ability very early on in his career at Fulham. At left back, his crosses have been fantastic into the box. He also has a good shot as well. His play tomorrow could be critical in scoring goals.

5. Clint Dempsey needs to step up tomorrow and shoot whenever he has a chance. I think without Zamora and Dembele that Dempsey needs to be very involved in creating scoring chances. He likes to shoot, and I would recommend him shooting as much as possible against West Ham.

I am predicting a 1-0 victory for Fulham against West Ham at Upton Park. At some point, Fulham need to win on the road. It will be a tough game, but I am hoping Fulham come away with three points.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 04:30:32 PM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215411 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215411)
Fulham - Something Better Change!
Back in my tempestuous teenage years I used to love the Stranglers hit - Something Better Change!

And as we head off towards Upton Park, I`m going to ignore the indications that it`ll be a forlorn journey home, courtesy of the following facts:-

• We`ve not won away from home in 21 attempts in the Premier League!

• All four of West Ham`s goals, in the Premier League this season, have come from set pieces!

• Carlton Cole has scored in each of his last four matches matches against Fulham!

• Fulham have won only 3 of their last 41 away derby matches!

To proudly predict that this will be our 4th win in 42 away derby matches, we`ll not go 22 Premier League away games without a win, Carlton Cole will not make it 5 in 5 against us and West Ham will not score from a set piece.

Like I said in the introduction - Something Better Change!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215411#ixzz117aywR6U (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215411#ixzz117aywR6U)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/10/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on October 01, 2010, 04:31:47 PM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215410 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215410)
Fulham - 300 Up!
If selected, Damien Duff will hit a milestone tomorrow (Saturday) at Upton Park.

The Irishman, who joined us from Newcastle last season, will be making his 300th career appearance, in a career that has seen him perform in the top flight for Blackburn, Chelsea, Newcastle and now Fulham.

Can we hope for a goal to celebrate this milestone Damien?


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215410#ixzz117bJud1A (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=215410#ixzz117bJud1A)