Results| Sunday |
Watford | 2 - 1 | Leicester |
Fulham | 1 - 2 | Chelsea |
Everton | 0 - 0 | Liverpool |
Fulham 1-2 Chelsea(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/624/cpsprodpb/8F27/production/_105874663_rexfeatures_10129324ab.jpg)
Gonzalo Higuain has scored three goals in five Premier League starts since joining Chelsea in January
Fulham caretaker manager Scott Parker says he is planning for the long term after his first match in charge ended in a narrow defeat by Chelsea.The Premier League strugglers produced a much-improved performance in their first game since the sacking of Claudio Ranieri, but remain deep in relegation trouble.
With nine matches remaining, they are 10 points from safety and have lost eight of their past nine league games.
"The most important thing was we showed character," said Parker. "Our centre-halves got the ball and played. This is the way Fulham play and the way I want my team to play.
"I am thinking long term in the best interests of Fulham. I will treat this as long term because I want to help this club."
Gonzalo Higuain set Chelsea on the way to a first Premier League away win of 2019 with a high-quality finish from Cesar Azpilicueta's cross.
Fulham equalised through Calum Chambers from a corner, awarded after recalled Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga produced an outstanding stop to keep out Aleksandar Mitrovic's volley.
They were level for only four minutes, Jorginho's well placed finish from 20 yards leaving Chelsea only two points adrift of fourth spot.
Ryan Sessegnon thought he had equalised in the closing moments but the 18-year-old's effort was ruled out for offside.
Better from Fulham but relegation loomsDespite a 20th league defeat of the season, Fulham fans applauded the home side off the pitch at the end after a much improved performance.
Parker demanded a response in his first game and he got one, but time is running out for a team who have looked out of their depth most of the season.
Relegation is looming for Fulham, whose run-in includes home matches against title-chasing Liverpool and Manchester City.
It might have been a different story but for Arrizabalaga.
The Chelsea keeper was kept busy with saves from Tom Cairney and Joe Bryan, but his acrobatic first-half stop to deny Mitrovic, with the score 1-0 to Chelsea, was outstanding.
It resulted in a corner from which Chambers, who was left totally unmarked, equalised. But Chelsea were soon level again.
In a frantic ending, Serbia forward Mitrovic could have equalised but headed straight at Arrizabalaga before Sessegnon put the ball in the back of the net only for a tight offside call to go against him.
Parker has described his new role as an "audition" and he certainly got a spirited reaction from his players. Now he has to find a way of turning decent performances into points.
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Scott Parker played for Charlton, Chelsea, Newcastle, West Ham, Tottenham and Fulham in a 20-year playing careerKepa back with a bangSeven days ago Chelsea were portrayed as a club in meltdown after goalkeeper Arrizabalaga refused to be substituted during the Carabao Cup final defeat by Manchester City.
The Spanish keeper was dropped for the midweek win against Tottenham but was back in the team at Fulham as Chelsea made it back-to-back wins in the league.
With the game goalless, Arrizabalaga was lucky to escape after dropping the ball at the feet of Ryan Babel on the edge of the six-yard area.
But he made up for his mistake with a wonderful save to deny Mitrovic before being let down by his defenders for Chambers' goal.
Chelsea were far from their fluent best and they wasted chances to put the game out of sight before Fulham's late rally.
Towards the end of the first half, Higuain, who now has three goals in five league games for the club, missed a great opportunity to make it 3-1, before Fulham keeper Sergio Rico produced a sublime one-handed save to keep out the Argentine.
With Chelsea having a game in hand over the teams above them, the race to finish in a Champions League spot could yet go to the final weekend of the season.
Man of the match - Kepa Arrizabalaga (Chelsea)
'We were tired mentally and physically' - what they saidChelsea manager Maurizio Sarri: "We played very well only for 60 minutes. We could have killed the match.
"We were not able to so in the last 20 or 25 minutes we were in trouble because we were very tired mentally and physically after 120 minutes against Manchester City and a strong match against Tottenham.
Why Fulham don't like derbies - the stats Fulham have become the first side to lose 10 London derbies in the top flight in a single season.
Chelsea are unbeaten in 18 Premier League games against Fulham.
Eden Hazard became the third Chelsea player to both score and assist 50 Premier League goals (81 goals, 50 assists) after Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba.
Fulham midfielder Kevin McDonald has been on the winning side in just three of his 38 Premier League games (7.9%); among players to have played as many as 38 Premier League matches, only Rudy Gestede (3.9%, two wins in 51) has a lower win percentage.
Fulham have lost more matches than any other side in the top five European leagues in all competitions during 2019 (9).
What's next?Fulham are away to Leicester City in the Premier League next Saturday (15:00 GMT) while Chelsea are in action on Thursday, when Dynamo Kiev visit Stamford Bridge in a Europa League last-16 first-leg tie (20:00 GMT).
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/47346960
Caretaker Manager Reaction(https://ffcw001.azureedge.net/-/media/2018_19_matches/rexfeatures_10129327aq.jpg?w=622&h=278)
Scott Parker was proud of his side in his first game in charge as Caretaker Manager but feels an opportunity for points has slipped by.
"In the first-half we probably didn't stamp our authority on the game in terms of retaining possession," said Parker.
"The second-half was amazing, it's just not about the passion, effort and desire as in football that only gets you so far, but it's a foundation that every top team has.
"I know how good these players are and in the second-half we showed that. I said at half-time that we weren't brave enough on the ball and in the second 45 minutes we showed more desire and determination.
"I may be speaking with my heart, but I believe 2-2 would have been a much fairer result, we've had a disallowed goal and their 'keeper has pulled off some amazing saves.
(https://ffcw001.azureedge.net/-/media/2018_19_matches/rexfeatures_10129327ai.jpg?w=300&h=400)
"It looks like the right call with the Sessegnon chance at the very end, it looks minimal."
There was plenty of passion on show for the Fulham faithful at Craven Cottage and Parker wants to see more of the same moving forward.
He said: "I shouldn't expect anything less, the challenge for me now is that needs to stay and how is this going to happen, making sure that it's a given every single week.
"With that team that you've seen today we need to keep it like that, the lads were really fantastic.
"I was a player here for four years and I came back as a coach, there was a brand and an identity to Fulham which everyone understands.
"A team who plays passing football, a real family club, a lovely football club. These are things you associate with Fulham.
"It was a big focus for us this week, we wanted to bring the fans close to us again and I feel like we've done that today with a small minor step."
For Parker today was a landmark day not only for the football club but for himself personally as it was the first time he has taken charge of a senior team and it is a chance he is relishing.
"It felt amazing, it's been a six or seven-year process after starting my coaching badges such a long time ago.
"When you set out on them, the main aim is eventually sitting in a dugout managing a team.
"Of course I have an idea of how I want the club to be in the future, whether I'm here in 10 games time or not I will still be making the same comments on how to put this club in a better place," said Parker.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/march/03/caretaker-manager-reaction
Chelsea survive late scare to nab 2-1 over relegation-haunted near neighbours Fulham at Craven Cottage
Fulham 1 v Chelsea 2
Gonzalo Higuain and Jorginho scored for the Blues as they overcame a gutsy Fulham to nab a close 2-1 win at Craven Cottage, which does not help the home side's attempt to avoid relegation, but does push the Blues closer to a fourth-place spot in the Premier League.
Fulham are now 10 points away from safety while the Blues, with a game in hand could go fourth.
That match against Brighton has yet to be arranged.
Arsenal loanee Calum Chambers gave Fulham hope when he equalised but it was not enough as returning goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga produced a series of fine saves to thwart Fulham and in particular Aleksandar Mitrovic.
Ryan Sessegnon had a late goal disallowed as Fulham's best player was adjudged to be just offside from close range.
Chelsea dominated the opening exchanges with Gonzalo Higuain going close on four minutes after a Eden Hazard cross into the Fulham penalty area saw the Argentina striker glance his headed effort inches wide of Sergio Rico's right post.
Fulham countered well and Joe Bryan sent a low, right-footer past Kepa Arrizabalaga's right post.
Kepa almost gifted Fulham a goal on 17 minutes when he misjudged a regulation catch, dropped it. And with Ryan Babel ready to tap-in, recovered quickly enough to snaffle the ball to his body.
Seconds later and the visitors were ahead. Willian on the right, passed to the overlapping Cesar Azpilicueta. The Spain right back crossed to in-running Higuain who smashed home a first time low volley past Rico.
It was the striker's third goal for the Blues since joining, on loan from AC Milan in January.
A sublime , athletic save from Kepa on 27 minuted, justified his return to the side. He somehow managed to tip over a powerful Aleksandar Mitrovic volley for a corner.
But the home side equalised from the resultant corner kick, Calum Chambers was left alone at the far post to poke home past Kepa.
But the Blues responded in devastating fashion on 31minutes.
A quick break saw the Blues carve Fulham apart with Hazard given the simple task of teeing up Jorginho on the edge of the penalty area. The Brazil-born Italian slotted home a beauty of a curling right-footer that let Rico rooted to his spot.
There were no changes from either side at half time. the first chance from the restart fell to Hazard but his wreak short was easily held by Rico.
Mitrovic attempted to equalise in spectacular fashion on 60 minutes. But his edge of he area blaster zipped over Kepa's crossbar.
The first sub station fell to the home side. With Kevin McDonald going off and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa coming on, on 63 minutes.
With Ryan Sessegnon moved across field to the right, Fulham looked more purposeful in attack and started to push the visitors back.
Chelsea replaced booked Jorginho for Mateo Kovacic on 68 minutes.
Ryan Babel was next to leave the field for Fulham on 72 minutes, Floyd Ayite came on.
With the Blues under the cosh, Maurizio Sarri decided to end Hazard's game, and brought on Pedro.
Ross Barkley was the Blues final substitution on 79 minutes – Ruben Loftus-Cheek entered the fray.
Fulham's Tom Cairney was next to leave the pitch, Luciano Vietto came on.
Fulham should have equalised but Arrizabalaga somehow parried away a wonderful Mitrovic header with two minutes left on he clocks.
Sessegnon thought he had gained a last gasp equaliser but was millimetres offside as he slotted home from close range.
Teams: Chelsea, Arrizabalaga, Rudiger, Jorginho, Kante, Barkley, Higuain, Hazard, Willian, Christensen, Azpilicueta, Emerson
Sub: Caballero, Pedro, Loftus-Cheek, Kovacic, Giroud, Hudson-Odoi, Luiz
Fulham, Rico, Sessegnon, Odoi, Chambers, McDonald, Mitrovicv, Cairney, Babel, Ream, Nordtveit, Bryan
Subs: Fabri, Ayite, Vietcong, Le Marchand, Christie, Seri, Zambo Anguissa
Referee, G Scott
https://www.londonnewsonline.co.uk/chelsea-survive-late-scare-to-nab-2-1-over-relegation-haunted-near-neighbours-fulham-at-craven-cottage/
Chelsea weather Fulham storm to win derby clash
Fulham 1 Chelsea 2
Jorginho's lovely strike was enough to win the west London derby for Chelsea but much-improved Fulham pushed them all the way.
The relegation-threatened Whites, in their first game under caretaker boss Scott Parker, hit back through Calum Chambers' equaliser after Gonzalo Higuain had put Chelsea ahead.
Chelsea were back in front by the interval but had to cling on as Fulham put them under sustained pressure in the second half.
The defeat means second-from-bottom Fulham remain 10 points from safety.
But Parker, placed at the helm following the sacking of Claudio Ranieri, can take plenty encouragement from their performance.
Chelsea, whose victory moved them to within a point of fifth-placed Arsenal and two points behind fourth-placed Manchester United, with a game in hand on both teams, went in front on 21 minutes.
Cesar Azpilicueta linked up with Willian on the right and sent the ball in low towards Higuain, who netted with an emphatic first-time finish.
It came shortly after Fulham would have gone ahead had Ryan Babel realised the recalled Kepa had dropped a routine ball into the box.
The Dutchman was facing the opposite direction and would have had a simple tap in had he been aware of Kepa's mistake.
Kepa redeemed himself with a fine save to keep out Aleksandar Mitrovic's volley from Ryan Sessegnon's cross.
But the Spaniard had no chance when Chambers was left unmarked and brought the home side level with a far-post volley from Babel's cross.
However, Chelsea were ahead again four minutes later.
Hazard cut in from the left and laid the ball across to Jorginho, who superbly steered his shot into the top corner.
Kepa, back in the side having been dropped against Tottenham for refusing to be substituted during the Carabao Cup final, produced a superb last-minute save to keep out Mitrovic's header.
And the home fans thought Sessegnon had equalised when he netted in the final seconds, but the goal was disallowed, seemingly for offside or a foul on Andreas Christensen in the build up.
Fulham: Rico, Bryan, Chambers, Ream, Odoi, McDonald (Anguissa 73), Cairney (Vietto 80), Nordtveit, Sessegnon, Mitrovic, Babel (Ayite 71).
Subs not used: Fabri, Le Marchand, Christie, Seri.
Chelsea: Kepa, Emerson, Rudiger, Christensen, Azpilicueta, Jorginho (Kovacic 69), Kante, Barkley (Loftus-Cheek 78), Willian, Hazard (Pedro 74), Higuain
Subs not used: Caballero, Giroud, Hudson-Odoi, Luiz.
https://www.westlondonsport.com/chelsea/football-fulham-v-chelsea-premier-league-report-030319
Do these images prove Fulham's late goal SHOULD have counted against Chelsea?
FULHAM were denied a late equaliser against Chelsea after Ryan Sessegnon was flagged offside, but did the officials get it right?
(https://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/67/590x/Fulham-vs-Chelsea-1095097.jpg?r=1551629672601)
Fulham vs Chelsea: Should Ryan Sessegnon's goal have stood? (Image: SKY SPORTS)
After a weekend of contentious decisions from officials Fulham will be ruing their luck after seeing Sessegnon flagged offside late on against Chelsea.
The ball was floated up from the back and found its way to Sessegnon in the box.
The Fulham forward then beat Kepa Arrizabalaga but the linesman's flag went up.
But it was a close call and these images show the goal should have stood.
However Fulham remain 10 from safety and second bottom in the Premier League following the 2-1 defeat to their west London rivals.
Chelsea scored through Gonazlo Higuain and Jorginho either side of Calum Chambers leveling the match in the first half.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live Don Hutchinson thinks Sessegnon was onside, buy may have made a foul in the build up.
"Take your pick because I think there is a foul in the build-up, Sessegnon might have just been onside but the referee and the linesman came to the correct conclusion after the foul on Christiansen," he said.
(https://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/67/590x/secondary/Fulham-vs-Chelsea-1764645.jpg?r=1551629672715)
Fulham vs Chelsea: Ryan Sessegnon saw his injury time goal ruled out (Image: Sky Sports)
(https://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/67/590x/secondary/Fulham-vs-Chelsea-1764646.jpg?r=1551629672777)
Fulham vs Chelsea: Fulham were denied a late point (Image: Sky Sports)
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Fulham vs Chelsea: Chelsea sealed a 2-1 win at Craven Cottage (Image: Sky Sports)
(https://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/67/590x/secondary/Fulham-vs-Chelsea-1764650.jpg?r=1551629672886)
Fulham vs Chelsea: Ryan Sessegnon began celebrating before having to restart play (Image: SKY SPORTS)
(https://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/67/590x/secondary/Fulham-vs-Chelsea-1764651.jpg?r=1551629672940)
Fulham vs Chelsea: Fulham remain 10 points from safety after another defeat (Image: SKY SPORTS)
Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta insists it's another big win that can put them in a strong position going into the final run as they battle for a place in the top four.
"It was a tough game," he said.
"In the first half we played very well and created a lot of chances to go in more comfortably at half-time.
"We didn't score and we know Fulham are fighting relegation. Every point matters they pushed hard and sometimes you have to dig in.
"We know that we are entering into the last stage of the season where we have to take everything we can.
"We have a lot of targets to get. Hopefully we can get what we want"
https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1095097/Fulham-Chelsea-Ryan-Sessegnon-goal
Good for Fulham: Jamie Vardy injured in Watford defeat
Watford 2-Leicester 1
Leicester travelled to Watford in Sunday's early kick-off for Brendan Rodgers first game as their new boss.
The Foxes started the day in 11th place but could move up to 10th with a win over 8th place Watford.
However, things did not get off to a great start for Rodgers with Troy Deeney putting the Hornets 1-0 up inside five minutes.
After much pressing Jamie Vardy would finally equalise for Watford in the 75th minute.
Unfortunately for Leicester, Andre Gray would come off the bench and make it 2-1 to Watford in the 92nd minute.
Rodgers has now failed to win his first game of the five clubs he has managed in English football.
Vardy injured vs Watford
Vardy, on the other hand, has scored the first goal in the last four Leicester managers first games in charge.
Vardy injured vs Watford
Vardy, on the other hand, has scored the first goal in the last four Leicester managers first games in charge.
Leicester will be at home to Fulham on Saturday the 3rd of March.
https://www.101greatgoals.com/news/good-for-fulham-jamie-vardy-injured-in-watford-defeat/
Fulham vs Chelsea result: Player ratings as Jorginho and Kepa Arrizabalaga claim redemption at Craven Cottage
Fulham 1-2 Chelsea: Scott Parker's side impressed but couldn't cause their West London rivals to stumble
Chelsea kept pace in the race for the top-four with a tense 2-1 victory over Fulham in the West London derby at Craven Cottage.
Maurizio Sarri's side, rejuvenated by a cathartic victory over Tottenham in midweek, took the lead after 20 minutes as Gonzalo Higuain diverted Cesar Azpilicueta's low cross past Sergio Rico.
Yet, just seven minutes later, Chelsea were caught out by Arsenal loanee Calum Chambers, who dropped into space at the back post and rifled home from the corner.
Moments later, though, Chelsea were back in front after the impressive Jorginho lingered on the edge of the box for Eden Hazard's lay-off and delivered a fine whipped finish into the top corner from 18 yards.
Kepa Arrizabalaga, reinstated as Sarri's first-choice goalkeeper after the Carabao Cup debacle, made a number of fine saves to keep Fulham at bay in the second-half as Sarri's side utlimately held on for the vital three points.
https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-vs-chelsea-result-final-score-goals-watch-highlights-epl-table-replay-a8805606.html
Fulham vs Chelsea result: Jorginho and Gonzalo Higuain fire Blues back into Champions League contention
Two wins in a week has put Chelsea firmly back in the running to finish in the top four
Chelsea beat Fulham 2-1 in Scott Parker's first match as caretaker manager to close the gap on the top four to just two points.
Maurizio Sarri's side had slipped away from Manchester United and Arsenal in recent weeks, but goals from Gonzalo Higuain and Jorginho close the gap to two and one points respectively.
Having replaced Claudio Ranieri with Parker, Fulham showed a rare bit of fight to get themselves back into the game through Callum Chambers after Higuain opened the scoring with his third Chelsea goal.
However, Jorginho, who has been playing below his best recently, restored the visitors' lead before the break to clinch a welcome win for Sarri.
Kepa Arrizabalaga started his first game since his Wembley dispute with the manager and atoned for an earlier error in the match with a stunning stop to deny Aleksandar Mitrovic late in the game and seal Chelsea's first away win in 2019.
Here's five things we learned from Craven Cottage
1. Chelsea play their way back into Champions League contention
Saturday's result in the north London derby will have greatly pleased Chelsea; Tottenham and Arsenal's draw means that they stayed within touching distance of the top four.
The win lifts them to just two points shy of Manchester United in forth and one below Arsenal in fifth with a game in hand against Brighton.
Of course, results are more important than ever at this stage of the season, but the performance on the back of their midweek win against Tottenham was a huge boost for Sarri. Having been on the brink of completely losing control of an already rogue dressing room, the manager appears to have galvanised his side ahead of their final set of fixtures.
2. Parker lifts Fulham
It was of no surprise to see the Fulham players delighted with after Chambers equalised in the first half. The goal was a result of a spirited fightback from the home side having just conceded and a show of rare unity amongst the Fulham ranks.
Every time Fulham conceded and went behind under Claudio Ranieri it effectively game over, of course apart from that freak comeback against Brighton. Parker's changes were far from revolutionary. Playing players in their preferred positions and inspiring a bit of confidence certainly went a long way to producing a much better performance.
It is, however, probably far too late to begin thinking about any miraculous escape. Southampton stayed up in 17th last season with 36 points, meaning Fulham need 19 points from an available 27, with games against Liverpool and Manchester City still to come.
3. Kepa marks return with cagey performance
Chelsea were keen to draw a line under Kepa's appeared act of defiance in the Carabao Cup final a week ago, but since that penalties defeat against Manchester City he has been fined and dropped from the first team.
Sarri reinstated Chelsea's number one goalkeeper for the visit to Fulham to show that it is finally time to move on from what happened at Wembley.
A fine save to keep out Aleksandar Mitrovic's well-hit volley from the edge of the box was overshadowed by his poor handling that almost gave Fulham an early lead.
He had seemingly claimed a straightforward cross after getting above Ryan Babel, but then dropped the ball with the goal gaping. Fortunately for the goalkeeper, Babel had turned away and missed his chance to score into an empty net.
4. Sessegnon and Cairney leads old-look Fulham
After nine months of turgid football and continuous disappointment at Craven Cottage, there was a pleasant throwback watching Tom Cairney, Ryan Sessegnon and Mitrovic link up, supported by Kevin McDonald in midfield. It was a return to the simpler times and a return to the style got Fulham promoted.
Cairney often struggled to establish himself as a key player under either manager and Sessegnon was almost completely out of the picture.
The return to more trusted and crowd-pleasing players was winning back supporters, and it almost got Fulham back in the game. Cairney was especially good and his quick feet and vision often caused Chelsea problems.
Fulham will face a difficult task to retain the trio if they are relegated, but whoever buys them must use them wisely.
Sessegnon may have though he scored and rescued a point in the fourth minute of added time, but his effort was ruled out for a contentious offside.
5. Jorginho responds to critics
Sarri reiterated the importance of Jorginho for his "way of football" and challenged him to consistent after a strong performance against Tottenham in midweek.
So, how did he respond? With a goal in one of his best Chelsea performances.
After winning back possession and setting Chelsea on their way, he charged forward and opened the scoring with a fine finish from the edge of the area, his first goal since his debut on the opening weekend of the season.
https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-vs-chelsea-result-score-goals-full-time-live-eden-hazard-jorginho-higuain-highlights-watch-a8805611.html
Fulham player ratings: Tom Cairney brilliant & Calum Chambers impresses in Chelsea defeat
Fulham were beaten 2-1 by Chelsea in their first game under caretaker manager Scott Parker
Fulham suffered derby day defeat in Scott Parker's first game as caretaker manager as they lost 2-1 to Chelsea at Craven Cottage.
It was a good start from the home side but Chelsea were the ones who got themselves ahead as Cesar Azpilicueta and Willian doubled up on Joe Bryan before the Spaniard fired a cross into Gonzalo Higuain who finished well.
But Fulham responded well and got level when Calum Chambers peeled off at the back stick following a corner and finished with a first-time volley past Kepa Arrizabalaga, only for Jorginho to pop up minutes later and put one into the top corner of Sergio Rico's goal.
Fulham played well in the second half as they matched their opposition from the blue part of SW6, but couldn't find the back of the net.
Here's how we rated the side:
Sergio Rico - 6
Made a number of good saves throughout the first half with the one from Higuain being a highlight. Didn't have too much to do in the second half of the game but looked alert when called on.
Denis Odoi - 7
Struggled at right back against Willian and Chelsea's attackers in the first half. Looked decent going forward and started to cope more with Hazard as the game went on, with the Belgian eventually being subbed off.
Sergio Rico - 6
Made a number of good saves throughout the first half with the one from Higuain being a highlight. Didn't have too much to do in the second half of the game but looked alert when called on.
Denis Odoi - 7
Struggled at right back against Willian and Chelsea's attackers in the first half. Looked decent going forward and started to cope more with Hazard as the game went on, with the Belgian eventually being subbed off.
Kevin McDonald - 7
Vocal throughout the first 45, McDonald performed well and put himself about alongside Chambers to break up attacks. Started to tire in the second half and was replaced by Anguissa on 62 minutes.
Tom Cairney - 8
Looked a different player to the one we saw under Ranieri - he got involved in everything in the first half and looked to be playing with real confidence. Was fantastic in the second half and was the man that was making things tick.
Ryan Sessegnon - 7
Enjoyed his return to the first team down the left and got himself into some good positions, while he gave his markers a run for their money. Had a good second half and always looked to attack the Chelsea defenders when in possession.
Ryan Babel - 6
A lack of awareness to pounce on Kepa's mistake summed up his first half - he was very much on the sidelines of the game. Had a far better second half where he got involved more, winning the ball out right, coming inside to look for his forwards.
Aleksandar Mitrovic - 6
Struggled to impact the game as much as he has done in recent weeks but got himself into some good areas in the Chelsea box. Battled well in the second half and his physicality made an impact on Chelsea's defender.
Substitutes
Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa - 6
Was brought on the challenge Chelsea higher up the pitch and he did that well for the 25 odd minutes he was on - getting involved well in the game.
Floyd Ayite - 5
Didn't really have too much impact on the game after coming on as a second half sub.
Luciano Vietto - 5
Only had ten minutes on the pitch and didn't do much to impact the game.
https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-player-ratings-tom-cairney-15914112
Fulham analysis: Scott Parker makes mark with Ryan Sessegnon and Tom Cairney calls but defence disappoint
Chelsea edged out a much-improved Fulham on Saturday as Scott Parker made his managerial bow.
Gonzalo Higuain gave the visitors a 20th minute lead, which was cancelled out eight minutes later by Calum Chambers.
However, Jorginho's 31st-minute goal won it for the visitors - but there was late drama as Kepa saved an Aleksandar Mitrovic header before Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon saw a late effort disallowed.
Plenty to be buoyed about but it all looks a little in vain with nine games remaining.
Giuseppe Muro was at Craven Cottage to assess the key talking points...
Parker already making his mark
Scott Parker may have taken over far too late to stop Fulham being relegated but he has breathed new life into a team who lost their way so badly under Claudio Ranieri.
Fulham played with an energy and intent that was missing when Ranieri was in charge and having Parker on the touchline lifted the whole mood inside Craven Cottage.
He got his message across to the players about wanting more passion and desire and they made life difficult for Chelsea all afternoon.
They almost even nicked a point late on which would have been deserved.
(https://static.standard.co.uk/s3fs-public/thumbnails/image/2019/03/03/16/cairney030319a.jpg?w600)
Cairney looks reborn in the middle
Tom Cairney was excellent for Fulham. Back in his favoured central position, who would have thought it?
It was always difficult to understand why Ranieri played Cairney out on the right but Parker put him as the No10 in a 4-2-3-1 and he was back to the player we saw in the Championship last season.
If he had been fit all season and playing where he did today, there is no doubt he could have had a big impact for Fulham.
Parker also started Kevin McDonald his leadership in midfielder is something Fulham have missed badly this season.
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Sessegnon has been a miss
One of the biggest things Ranieri did wrong was the way he handled Ryan Sessegnon. Parker has made it clear straight away that Sessegnon is going to be a key player under him and the 18-year-old showed why Fulham fans have been crying out for him to be playing.
Ranieri drained confidence from Sessegnon but Parker has put an arm around him and he looked a different player.
He played well and showed why he is seen as one of the brightest young prospects in England.
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Galvanised players a joy to see
Every Fulham player put in a shift against Chelsea. Parker said the Cottagers have been a "soft touch" too often this season but you could not say that about them today.
Unfortunately, it was the same old defensive frailties that cost them. It was too easy for Chelsea to score twice in the first half and Fulham suffered another defeat that pushed them closer to the drop.
They are now 10 points from safety with now just nine games remaining
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham/fulham-analysis-scott-parker-makes-mark-with-ryan-sessegnon-and-tom-cairney-calls-but-defence-a4081461.html
Scott Parker transcript: Fulham caretaker on his first game in charge, Sessegnon, the fans & more
Here's everything the Fulham caretaker manager had to say after his side's 2-1 defeat to Chelsea
How did that feel today?
"Personally, it felt very good. Amazing in that sense. It's been a six or seven year process starting on my coaching badges all that time ago.
The end goal is sitting in the dug-out managing the team. There were times today, and last night when I wasn't sleeping, it's amazing it's happened.
Think of team's performance?
We didn't stamp authority on the game in the first half in terms of possession. Second half was amazing, amazing. The second half performance... and it's not just about the passion, effort, desire and character because I understand that only gets you so far in football.
It's a foundation and a base, that's what we need and very great clubs has that but there's also an element of skill. I know how good these players are and, in the second half, they showed that at times.
We spoke about it at half time, too many times in the first half we weren't brave enough on the ball, confidence, second from bottom of the league, a two-yard pass can feel like 20 yards.
We were brilliant in the second half, we showed character, they showed hard work, desire and intensity in the game, but in the second half the most pleasing thing for me was people were brave on the ball.
Created chances too
"On the run of play in second half, maybe I'm speaking with my heart before watching the game back analysing it, 2-2 would have been a fair result.
That's how I felt. A disallowed goal, the keeper's pulled off a couple of world-class saves."
Ryan Sessegnon incident at the end?
"Yeah he looked offside, to be fair. It's minimal, but it's the right call."
Disconnect between fans and the players. Is that repaired?
"I didn't expect anything less. Ultimately, the test for me as the person in charge of the team is that needs to stay.
The question remains how can we keep that. How can that be a given every single week. Big challenges, people come in with changes and you get an uplift, but we need to keep it there. But the lads were fantastic."
Reclaim the identity Fulham had last season and go down playing your way?
"100%. For me, that's totally it. I wouldn't want to do it any other way.
"If someone told me something else from above, I'd tell them I'm not their guy and wouldn't carry on. I was a player here for four years, and came back as a coach, and ultimately there was a brand and identity to Fulham that everyone understood: they'd say Fuham were a passing team; lovely family-football club.
"Now, if you ask that question, are the same words coming to people's mind? I don't think they are. It was a big message from me this week, I wanted to bring the fans back, and I feel like I did that today. But it's a minor step. We have to keep it up."
Say to Sessegnon before the game and think of his season?
"I've known Sess since he was a 16 year old boy, shy and quiet training with us, but his talent was there from day one.
"I've been there at 18. Everyone feels as if it's on top of you. He's had the weight on his shoulders the last few months, and he hasn't been playing well.
"That can be for a number of reasons: a young boy playing in a tough league, and I just tried to free him up. I said it to all of them. I don't care what mistakes they make."
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(Image: Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Will there be a clearing of the decks in the summer?
"To be fair, it's difficult to answer that.
"I'm the caretaker. Have I got a long-term view for how this club should go? Of course, whether I'm here after ten games time or not I will still make the same effort to put this club in a better place.
"Clubs change when they get relegated, they have to, you go from the best league in the world to the Championship, so there will be some restructuring, but that's probably a conversation to have at the end of the season."
https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/scott-parker-transcript-fulham-caretaker-15915433
Cottage Talk Full Time: Fulham Give Maximum Effort In Their 2-1 Loss Against Chelsea
Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.
In this episode, we shared our "initial reactions" to Fulham's 2-1 loss to Chelsea. Co-host Emilio Di Nello was at the match, and he talked about the effort and fight Fulham gave in this loss.
You can also listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2019/3/3/18248775/cottage-talk-full-time-fulham-give-maximum-effort-in-their-2-1-loss-against-chelsea
Scott Parker 'proud' of Fulham display in defeat to Chelsea
Scott Parker was "proud" of Fulham's display after they lost 2-1 to Chelsea in his first match in charge.
Parker was appointed caretaker manager in midweek after Claudio Ranieri was sacked.
Although he didn't start with a win, former Fulham and Chelsea midfielder Parker was pleased with the improvement from his side in the second half.
He told Sky Sports: "In the first half we turned the ball over too quickly and weren't bright enough in possession. Second half we were brave on the ball. That's risky at times but for me it's the only way this team can play.
"I was very proud of the lads today. It's been a big few days and a massive season with a lot of disappointment. My message at the start of the game was that I want the fans to look at us with pride and I got a feeling they did that and that's what makes me happy.
"You can win and lose against quality teams but you want to come off the pitch knowing you put in all you can and we did that today."
The defeat leaves Fulham facing relegation from the Premier League. They are 10 points from safety with only nine matches of the season left to play.
"We took them close," said Parker. "The first half we huffed and puffed but didn't get the control of the game that I would have liked.
"We have worked on the last few days on trying to stamp our way on Chelsea, but felt that in possession we could given ourselves a platform to work around the pitch and first half we didn't do that as well as we should. Second half it changed around and was better."
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11654472/scott-parker-proud-of-fulham-display-in-defeat-to-chelsea
Fulham unfortunate not to get something from Scott Parker's first game in charge
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Scott Parker Photo: Adam Davy/PA Images
SCOTT PARKER, Fulham's third manager of this tumultuous season, saw his charges defeated by Chelsea at Craven Cottage in his first game as boss.
First-half goals from former Napoli colleagues Gonzalo Higuain and Jorginho either side of Calum Chambers's equaliser saw Chelsea keep up the pressure in the battle for a Champions League spot.
Parker was pleased that Fulham stayed with their neighbours and looked much more coherent than the lost puppies bewildered under the bark of Claudio Ranieri, the short-lived Italian manager who failed to change their passing template to his preferred counter-attacking style.
"The first half we didn't stamp our authority and the second half performance was amazing," Parker posited. "The most pleasing thing is that we were brave on the ball."
On the opposite bench, Maurizio Sarri was happy that Chelsea moved to within two points of the top four after a tough week.
"Today we played well for 60 minutes, especially for 15 minutes when we scored, but in the end we were tired both mentally and physically," said Sarri. "That's normal after 120 difficult minutes against Manchester City in the cup and an expensive 90 minutes midweek against Tottenham."
Sarri also recalled goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga following his refusal to be substituted during his League Cup Final antics. He almost rued that decision when the Spanish goalkeeper dropped a cross just behind the onrushing Ryan Babel in the opening exhanges.
Apart from that moment Kepa was in fine form, making a number of crucial saves. Sarri said: "Kepa played very well. It was a normal decision. He made mistake, he paid with club and the team. He understood and we move on."
The three goals came in the space of 11 minutes. The first in the 20th minute when Higuain sublimely met Cesar Azpilicueta's cross with a clinical finish into the bottom right-hand corner.
Seven minutes later Fulham were level when a short corner routine saw the ball floated to the far post where Chambers was waiting to pounce.
Four minutes later and Chelsea were back on top. The winning goal came from a quick Chelsea counter-attack. Fulham left back Joe Bryan believed he was fouled and as he protested Chelsea dashed up the pitch, with the ball reaching Eden Hazard who teed up a grateful Jorginho to fire into the top corner from 20 yards.
The second half saw Fulham press with Chelsea growing less dangerous on the counter-attack.
Fulham twice came close to an equaliser, first with Aleksandar Mitrovic going close with a header and in added-on time Ryan Sessegnon wheeled off in celebration before his effort was chalked off for offside.
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/s/fulham-unfortunate-not-get-something-scott-parkers-first-game-charge
Scott Parker reveals his major aims as Fulham caretaker boss after defeat to Chelsea
The 38-year-old is well aware of what has been missing at Craven Cottage this season
Scott Parker has made it his aim to reclaim Fulham's brand and identity during his time as caretaker manager after a disastrous season for the club.
Over the past two seasons the superlatives have rolled off the tongue when fans have spoken about the Craven Cottage outfit but this campaign has seen those words of praise turn to negative after negative as the side lost their way in the Premier League.
It's been one thing after another for Fulham in what has been a season to forget.
Fans had become alienated after Claudio Ranieri's spell in charge with anger coming to a head in the 2-0 defeat to Southampton in midweek, where banners were put on shown in the away end and chants were sang about the Italian.
He was sacked and replaced with Parker who has made it his aim to reconnect his players with the fans, a mission he started with today despite losing 2-1 to Chelsea.
It was a marked improvement, and while it still looks like the side are doomed for the drop, Parker has made of his targets in his ten-game spell to reclaim the identity Fulham once had and get back the brand that they had gained so many plaudits for in the past.
He said: "100%. For me, that's totally it. I wouldn't want to do it any other way.
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(Image: Clive Rose/Getty Images)
"If someone told me something else from above, I'd tell them I'm not their guy and wouldn't carry on. I was a player here for four years, and came back as a coach, and ultimately there was a brand and identity to Fulham that everyone understood: they'd say Fuham were a passing team; lovely family-football club.
"Now, if you ask that question, are the same words coming to people's mind? I don't think they are. It was a big message from me this week, I wanted to bring the fans back, and I feel like I did that today. But it's a minor step. We have to keep it up."
https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/scott-parker-reveals-one-major-15915587
Tom Cairney backs Scott Parker for permanent Fulham manager role
Fulham lost 2-1 to Chelsea in Parker's first game as caretaker boss on Sunday
Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney says he would like to see Scott Parker handed the manager's job on a permanent basis.
Parker was named as Fulham's caretaker boss this week following the sacking of Claudio Ranieri.
The 38-year-old suffered a 2-1 defeat in the first game of his managerial career against Chelsea on Sunday but Cairney says he should still be given the chance in a long-term role.
"I think so, yeah. I can't speak on behalf of everyone but he's so highly regarded at this club. I'd like to see that and him given a chance," he told Sky Sports News.
"It's good for young English or British managers. You see the likes of Lampard and Terry already, I think he (Parker) is in that bracket.
"It's a massive opportunity being a Premier League manager at this stage in his career but he's just taken it in his stride."
Cairney also revealed how Parker had taken the shackles off the Fulham players and given them a clear idea of how he wants them to play.
"He's been a top player and he just knows the game very well," he added.
"He'll probably say himself that he's got a lot to learn but the way he has been this week has been outstanding - you can tell from on the pitch today.
"He's just given us a clear idea. 'This is what I want in possession, this is what I want out of possession'. I think he took the shackles off a bit.
"He gave players license to express themselves and to enjoy it. We've worked hard for two or three years to play the likes of Chelsea in our stadium - he reminded us of that. We went out and did that today."
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11654554/tom-cairney-backs-scott-parker-for-permanent-fulham-manager-role
Scott Parker hails Fulham's 'amazing' second-half performance vs Chelsea
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Learning: Parker is proud pf Fulham despite the 2-1 defeat Getty Images
Fulham caretaker manager Scott Parker felt his side deserved a point after a narrow 2-1 defeat to Chelsea at Craven Cottage.
Calum Chambers cancelled out Gonzalo Higuain's opener in a lively first half but Jorginho struck a sublime winner four minutes later to leave Fulham on the brink of relegation to the Championship.
The Cottagers are now 10 points from safety with nine games remaining following a fifth straight defeat after losing out to their west London rivals.
But a battling performance from the Premier League strugglers in the second half had the Blues on the back foot for the final quarter of an hour.
Parker, who only took temporary charge on Thursday after Claudio Ranieri's sacking, hailed his side's performance after the interval.
"In the first half we probably didn't stamp our authority on the game in terms of retaining possession," said Parker.
"The second half was amazing: it's just not about the passion, effort and desire as in football that only gets you so far, but it's a foundation that every top team has.
"I know how good these players are and in the second half we showed that. I said at half-time that we weren't brave enough on the ball and in the second 45 minutes we showed more desire and determination."
A last-gasp strike from Ryan Sessegnon appeared to have snatched a deserved point for the hosts, only to see the flag correctly raised by the assistant referee.
And Parker conceded that while his players' effort warranted a draw, the goal was rightly ruled out - much to Chelsea's relief.
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Out of luck: Ryan Sessegnon reacts after seeing his 95th-minute strike is chalked off. REUTERS
"I may be speaking with my heart, but I believe 2-2 would have been a much fairer result," the 38-year-old added.
"We've had a disallowed goal and their 'keeper has pulled off some amazing saves.
"It looks like the right call with the Sessegnon chance at the very end, it looks minimal."
Fulham face an uphill task to avoid relegation with a tough upcoming fixture list in March, as Parker's side travel to Leicester on Saturday, followed by home games against title challengers Liverpool and Manchester City.
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham/fulham-vs-chelsea-scott-parker-hails-amazing-second-half-performance-a4081536.html
Fulham 1, Chelsea 2
A Defeat That Felt Much Better Than That
The cliché these past couple of days has been that, as the new manager, Scott Parker was going to bring a no-nonsense style to Fulham with the endeavor that got this football club back into the Premier League. That was what the expectation was from the supporters that expected underachievement and failure every matchday for some reason.
This day was different, in spite of the fact that Fulham predictably lost. They unleashed a pressing game against one of the better teams in England that we haven't seen all season. Plenty of players showed the courage to take Chelsea players on. And plenty of them went on to leave Craven Cottage with their heads held high as a result. Who knows of this will deliver any results the rest of the season, but there is now a new energy that has been instilled and supporters can finally look forward to watching the team play.
The first half did start brightly for Fulham from the start thanks to a Joe Bryan long range effort. It might have gone wide, but this was without some good movement along the left-hand flank by Ryan Babel who whipped in a deflected cross that found Tom Cairney in the penalty area. Once the captain's shot was blocked, it was Bryan's turn to give it a go. And that was the key all game, Fulham constantly had many more men forward in support than in previous games and were working to get the ball moving forward as well as possible.
However, Fulham's defense continued to give themselves problems, just as it has been all season. Gonzalo Higuain was able to give the visitors the lead thanks to a lapse in concentration after committing a foul on the other end of the pitch. Before you know it, Cesar Azpilicueta was able to unleash a low fizzing cross towards the cutting Higuain to unleash a one-touch rocket past Sergio Rico.
But Fulham didn't give up as they were generating set-pieces all game. But first, an interception by Joe Bryan in midfield led to finding a streaking Ryan Sessegnon, who was the heart and soul of everything positive for Fulham. The teenager's cross might have been defelected, but it was perfect for Aleksander Mitrovic to give it a go on the volley and force Kepa to make a fine save over the bar. Afterwards, a corner that lead to Babel picking a wide-open Calum Chambers to tap it past Kepa to tie this contest up.
But as soon as we thought we had a proper game of football on our hands, Jorginho gave back the lead to Chelsea from a curling blast just outside the penalty area. This came after too many defenders were mesmerized by Eden Hazard hoping to unload a shot beforehand, but the Belgian star laid the ball towards his teammate who was able to do all the work.
It seemed like a foul should have been called by referee Graham Scott on a Jorginho challenge on Bryan, but it was more of Bryan being clumsly taken to ground on his own. Nonetheless, the Craven Cottage faithful were furious and were still voicing their frustration as the Chelsea players were congratulating each other. Higuain really should have made it 3-1 if he didn't make his next attempt go so skyward. And besides one near-miss by Rico that gave Higuain one more shot at goal, Fulham were dominant the rest of this contest.
Plenty of this could be that Chelsea didn't really put out their first-choice XI out there. Andreas Christenen, Emerson and Ross Barkley were out on the pitch instead and it probably made Fulham's attack much better than the 1.18 expected goals, 12 total shots and five chances on target they delivered. Three of those shots stood out greatly in the second half for Fulham.
The first being a curling shot by Mitrovic that sailed just over the ball in the 59th minute after Tom Cairney performed well taking defenders on while on the dribble. Next, Cairney gave it a go himself in the 66th minute for Kepa to make a timid punch outside the penalty area. Unfortunately, it was Sessegnon that outraced Emerson to the ball and made him the substitute fullback he is. It was a darn shame the youngster couldn't put a better ball towards Mitrovic that was well positioned to tap it home from close range once he brilliantly ran it back into the box. Finally, a long ball by Denis Odoi found substitute Floyd Ayite did really well to beat his defender, collect it with a bouncing volley towards Mitrovic who had a chance to head it home. But once again, Kepa was there to make the save that was required.
But really, one chance should have counted if Sessegnon stayed more onside. A desperate long ball towards Mitrovic found another substitute in Luciano Vietto and put a throughball towards the streaking Sessegnon who looked to have tied this contest and send all near the River Thames into a frenzy. Instead, the flag was up and all of the Cottage's hopes and dreams came to naught.
On other days, this would be deemed a frustrating defeat. But with a new manager in charge, it felt like a new beginning and a smell of positivity that hasn't been seen in Southwest London since the start of the season. Only time will tell if this stays the course the rest of the season, but it is nice to write in such a positive manner after going through such misery.
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2019/3/3/18248698/fulham-1-chelsea-2
Are You An Aspiring Writer?(https://ffcw001.azureedge.net/-/media/cravencottage/rexfeatures_9889258ak.jpg?w=622&h=278)
Fulham is offering aspiring sports writers the opportunity to see their work published on the Club's website and receive not only advice from our media team, but also one-on-one tutoring from a journalist who has worked across three national newspapers.
All you have to do is send in approximately 300 words on anything relating to Fulham or football, to
[email protected].
All ages are welcome to take part and 10 candidates will be selected for a tutorial hosted one evening in April in the Press Room at Craven Cottage. Please note that participants selected who are under 18 will require parental/guardian consent.
The event will be hosted by members of the Club's media team and Dave Thomas, a journalist who covered football during the 90s for The Sunday Times, and reviewed music, books and film for The Times, before joining The Sun as their online Sports Editor. Participants will be provided with bespoke advice and tips as well as an insight into the sports media industry.
Closing date for copy submissions is 5pm on Friday 29th March. Winners will be notified by Friday 5th April.
The tutorial will take place on Wednesday 10th April between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Successful applicants will receive a Fulham FC gift pack and will be notified and provided with the format for the evening which will include a media tour of Craven Cottage.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/march/04/are-you-an-aspiring-writer
Fulham v Chelsea player ratings
Chelsea held on to win the west London derby despite a spirited performance from much-improved Fulham. Here's how we rated the players in the game at Craven Cottage.
Fulham
Sergio Rico: 7
Got down well to keep out a low shot from Eden Hazard, and did even better with a strong left-arm reflex stop to prevent Gonzalo Higuain from scoring his second just before the interval. No chance with either goal.
Denis Odoi: 6
Almost gifted Hazard a goal after running out of defence and into a thicket of blue shirts – Rico saved his bacon. Blocked a Willian shot late on and launched an attack which almost brought a late equaliser.
Harvard Nordtveit: 5
Disappointed to have allowed Higuain to ghost in in front of him for the Chelsea opener and had his hands full coping with the livewire Argentinian.
Tim Ream: 6
A great block denied Hazard a clear target, earning the American the familiar "Ream!" calls from delighted home fans. Gave his all.
Joe Bryan: 7
One of his best displays for the Whites so far. Made a really bright start, attacking the byline and firing off a right-footed shot from just outside the area that had Kepa scrambling. Also had another on-target shot in the second half.
Kevin McDonald: 7
Got in the way of a Willian shot and was soon breaking up attacks with interceptions and getting his shirt ripped for the cause. Booked for trip on Willian, but typified the fight caretaker boss Scott Parker wanted.
Calum Chambers: 6
Left alone at the far post to crash in the 27th-minute equaliser from a short corner routine – only his second goal for the club. Some decent driving runs into enemy territory.
Ryan Sessegnon: 7
Supplied a cross from which Aleksandar Mitrovic almost made it 1-1, moments before Fulham drew level, and linked up well with Bryan to cause a few problems for the Blues down their right flank. Unlucky to be flagged marginally offside when he netted from close range in injury time.
Tom Cairney: 7
Always involved and always looking to link up play. Had a second-half effort palmed away by the diving Kepa. Given an appreciative ovation when he went off on 80 minutes, Luciano Vietto his replacement.
Ryan Babel: 6
Missed a good chance to open the scoring when Kepa spilled a McDonald cross just before Chelsea took the lead. Did not get into the game as much as Parker would have liked. Made way for Floyd Ayite for final 20 minutes, who laid on a late heading chance for Mitrovic.
Aleksandar Mitrovic: 7
Connected perfectly with a Sessegnon cross to arrow a left-footed volley towards the top corner – Kepa making a great save. Also bulldozed around Andreas Christensen to send a dipping effort just over and had a late header saved.
Embed from Getty Images
Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa: 6
On for McDonald on 62 minutes, but did not have a major bearing on proceedings, with Chelsea's midfield often bypassing him.
https://www.westlondonsport.com/chelsea/football-was-fulham-chelsea-fc-ratings-030319
One goal forward, two goals back
Fulham's defeat at the hands of Burnley offers some lessons for us in advertising.
If you are a Fulham fan, please look away now. I am about to use your 12 January fixture against Burnley as an analogy. It may stir painful memories.
For those who are hazy on the details of this epic encounter at a drizzly and begrudging Turf Moor, three goals were planted in the back of the net in the first 23 minutes. And all three were scored by Fulham. No more goals were scored for the next 70 minutes and Fulham duly lost 2-1. I'm afraid two of their goals were own goals.
The point of this analogy is simple. Just like a football team, we in advertising can sometimes suffer more at our own hands than at the hands of our opponents. I'm hoping that 2018 will prove the high-water mark of self-inflicted wounds, but I'm not exactly holding my breath for 2019.
One of the things we seem to excel at as an industry is talking ourselves down. Too often, our self-analysis amounts to a narrative of creative decline, rather than celebrating the degree to which our creative product is flourishing and, shock horror, actually improving as opposed to deteriorating. The narrative often treats creativity as a threatened, cowering victim when, in reality, it has never had more scope, never been in greater demand, never been more valued and never been more muscular or prolific.
Too often, we declare that traditional brand-building media are dead or dying, and that people are turning their back on the product we make, even when there is scant evidence to support this and plenty of evidence to the contrary. For instance, if TV advertising isn't working, why is there currently 9% TV inflation? And why do 86% of people still watch commercial TV in real time if they're trying to avoid our product?
A similar faux-cloud hangs over the destiny of agency brands. A handful of names have been retired or repurposed, it is true. But they are far outnumbered by the burgeoning cohort of new brands and new models that have launched over recent years. Moreover, in a Fulham-esque own-goal scenario, the decommissioning of the three most prominent brands wasn't driven by external events but a failure of those now-defunct brands to anticipate and embody the change that their nimbler competitors latched on to more quickly. Whether a change of name is sufficient remedy to prevent these rebranded companies from slamming the ball into the back of their own net again will be nothing to do with agency branding. It will be to do with good management and a focus on the net at the other end of the pitch, also known as planning for the future.
But own goals don't have to be big and agency-threatening. They can be small and relatively trivial. The cumulative effect of these little errors can, however, be calamitous. One of the things Stephen Woodford always used to preach to me, when not doing Alan Partridge impersonations, is the importance of making every client meeting as enjoyable and cordial as possible, even when the subject matter is difficult.
A proper agenda, a proper pot of coffee, machinery that is tested and works, a punctual arrival, a knowledge of everyone's names (even that chap from the insight department who occasionally turfs up), a listening ear, an enthusiasm for the task in hand and one's full attention (as opposed to being locked behind a laptop) are some of the obvious ways of achieving this goal. So obvious that they shouldn't really need stating. But how often do we neglect one of these eight basic courtesies? Obviously not you personally, dear reader, you would never do such a thing. But perhaps a member of the team, say, or a friend of a friend, impolitely and furtively looks at his or her phone just as that chap from the insight department is getting on to typology number five. I'm afraid you're already 1-0 down.
To complete the Fulham tale. It was André Schürrle who scored Fulham's titanic (and Teutonic) half-volley stunner to put them 1-0 ahead. This was then negated by Denis Odoi and Joe Bryan with their respective own goals. The question we might ask ourselves as we head into spring is: how we can put 2018's own-goal malaise behind us? How can we emulate the mighty Schürrle? How do we spend more of the year at the right end of the pitch, in front of the right goal, doing our job sublimely, when the opportunity presents itself? Or, at least, how do we avoid another own-goal bleatathon where we can only lose against ourselves? Come on, the Cottagers.
Charles Vallance is founder and chairman of VCCP
https://www.campaignlive.co.uk/article/one-goal-forward-two-goals-back/1526325
