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Fulham 1-0 Sheffield United


Scott Parker says his Fulham side have enjoyed a "massive" week in their fight for Premier League survival after they claimed a vital win over fellow strugglers Sheffield United.

Seven points from three games has seen the Cottagers move just three points behind Newcastle in 17th, having been 10 points adrift at the start of last Sunday.

"We set a challenge to the boys tonight to not get swallowed up. To worry about ourselves and put in a performance where we showed our quality. I think we did that. We showed our quality," said the Fulham manager.

"Like all these games it took one moment to win the game and it came from Ademola [Lookman] and he found the net.

"I'm really proud of this team because it's a huge moment. Not just this game but this week. It's been massive."

Parker's side had dominated for long periods but it took them until just after the hour mark to break the deadlock.

Joachim Andersen's raking pass was superbly collected by Lookman, who profited from weak defending by Ethan Ampadu to cut inside and drill a shot through the legs of Blades goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek had earlier seen visiting defender George Baldock hook his goal-bound effort to safety after he prodded past Ramsdale.

And while the hosts had goalkeeper Alphonse Areola to thank for a point-blank save which denied Enda Stevens an equaliser, they more than merited only their second top-flight win at Craven Cottage this term.

Fulham start to believe?
While Fulham have now only lost one of their past seven top-flight matches, their biggest problem has been transforming creditable draws into victories.

Only Brighton have drawn more games than Parker's side this term and until Lookman delivered the game's defining moment it looked like being another occasion on which they were frustrated.

However, having collected eight points from the past 12 available, Parker will now feel that his side have given themselves a chance of reeling in the clubs above them.

"This team have real belief and I want us to focus on us," Parker added.

"The quality that we have will ultimately get us results in this division. We are a young team who want to improve and get better. We have got something about us that you need in these moments."

Newcastle, whose game in hand is at Old Trafford on Sunday, are the most obvious target but even the likes of Brighton and Burnley are now within sight.

A third clean sheet in the past four matches augurs well in that regard but Parker will also be aware that his side need to become more clinical in front of goal.

Just six of their 15 shots found the target and the likes of Lookman, Loftus-Cheek and Mario Lemina all had good opportunities to make the margin of victory more comfortable.

'A ridiculous VAR decision'
Prior to this fixture Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder had talked about the disruption that losing "eight or nine big players" had caused his side this season.

And when Chris Basham limped off after 51 minutes it was hard not to feel some sympathy for the Blades, who have now lost 20 of their 25 matches this season.

Already without John Egan and long-term absentee Jack O'Connell, they had, until then, borne a resemblance to the side that had the fourth-best defensive record in the top flight last term.

In Basham's absence Ampadu switched back into defence and his mistake ultimately cost the Blades at least a point.

But to lay all the blame all at his door would be wrong. Like Fulham, Sheffield United have spent the season trying to find a formula that can provide them with goals.

Last season Billy Sharp's second-half volley, or even Stevens' effort on goal might have crept in but this term their meagre ratio of 15 goals from 25 games has shown few signs of improving,

And a late decision not to give a penalty after a VAR review when Jayden Bogle clashed with Areola was symptomatic of a campaign where they have not enjoyed too many moments of good fortune.

"We had opportunities to get back into the game and didn't take them," Wilder said.

"And then we had a ridiculous VAR decision. I thought it was a reckless challenge from the Fulham goalkeeper. It's a penalty. Yes I'm clutching a bit but it was a penalty all day long. No question from me.

"I am completely seeing a different game. The stills and watching it in slow motion, how does VAR not see that? I don't care if he's being brave or whatever. It was a ridiculous challenge. Another fine margin has cost us."

Speaking on Match of the Day, pundit Danny Murphy also suggested the Blades should have been awarded a penalty.

"Fulham have got away with one and I understand Chris Wilder's frustrations," said Murphy.

Home comforts return for Fulham - the stats
    Fulham picked up just their second victory in 14 Premier League home games (W2 D4 L8) and first since beating West Brom in November.
    Sheffield United have only won two of their 28 Premier League games in London (D8 L18), winning at Chelsea in October 1992 (2-1) and Crystal Palace in February 2020 (1-0).
    Sheffield United have kept fewer clean sheets than any other team in the Premier League this season (1).
    Fulham have won two of their past three Premier League games (D1), as many as they'd won in their previous 24 in the competition (W2 D9 L13).
    Ademola Lookman has been directly involved in more Premier League goals than any other Fulham player this season (4 goals, 3 assists).
    Fulham's Lookman has scored four goals in 22 Premier League appearances this season - only in 2017-18 (5 in 11 Bundesliga apps) has he netted more in a top-flight campaign.

What's next?
Fulham travel to Crystal Palace in their next Premier League game on Sunday, 28 February (12:00 GMT).

Sheffield United welcome Liverpool to Bramall Lane in their next top-flight game on the same day (19:15 GMT).



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/56033692

Post-Sheff United Press Conference

After an important victory over Sheffield United meaning his side have picked up seven points in an action-packed game week, Scott Parker expressed his emotions on the full-time whistle.

"I'm very proud of the team," Parker exclaimed. "It's been a tough week in terms of the games we've had to play, the travelling we've had to do.

"I think we all understood tonight what this game was about.

"The message to the team before the game was to focus on us, let's not listen to the noise that's been created around this game.

"Throughout this year there's been one soul focus and that is us, that's been my constant message.

"I know with that, us showing our quality and playing with a freedom we'll get results, and I think that was proven tonight."

The fight from our men in white has been unquestioned throughout the campaign, and our boss reinforced a 'constant belief' from his side.

"This group of players are honest, want to learn, want to get better, understand the challenges of this league, what it brings sometimes and what you need in these moments.

"This team has constant belief, they're a confident team and that's the way we need to continue."

When questioned on being on the tails of Newcastle and Brighton (the former sitting just three points ahead with a game in hand), Parker explained his attentions are firmly set on ourselves.

"I'm not really looking at who's above us or who's around us," Parker stated. "All I'm focusing on is us and what we need to do.

"We need to keep showing what we've shown for large parts of the season.

"This team has been so competitive, and if you've watched our games over the last 15 or 16 games, the fine margins are that a couple of draws should've been wins.

"At this present moment in time, my focus is on us and us continuing to get better.

"When the curtain comes down at the end of the season, we'll either be good enough to stay in this division or not, but the main message to this group of players is 'let's keep fighting, let's keep improving and let's keep moving'."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/february/Post-Sheff-United-Press-Conference/

Albion lead over Fulham is cut in Premier League

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Ademola Lookman celebrates after scoring his precious winner for Fulham (pictured inset)

Fulham have thrown the Premier League survival battle wide open.

But Albion can look up the table if they beat rivals Crystal Palace.

The Seagulls are now four points clear of the 18th-placed Cottagers, who beat Sheffield United 1-0 this evening.

Ademola Lookman scored the winner in the second half.

Newcastle are just three points clear of Fulham ahead of their Sunday evening fixture at Manchester United.

Fulham were 11 points behind Albion this time last week but have since taken seven from three games.

Albion will be fully aware of the situation below them.

But, at the same time, a win over Palace would take them above both their opponents and Burnley, who drew 0-0 with ten-man West Brom at Turf Moor.

Southampton are now four points clear of Albion after they drew 1-1 at home to Chelsea.



https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/19106400.albion-lead-fulham-cut-premier-league/

Lookman's goal gives Fulham vital win in battle to stay up

A second-half strike by Ademola Lookman secured a vital victory for Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The winger drilled home on the hour, to finally prise open Sheffield United and help cut the deficit in Whites' battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League. Scott Parker's side, in 18th place, are now three points behind Newcastle United with a game more played.

This was a great opportunity for Fulham to build on their impressive away win at Everton last weekend, before earning a point against Burnley. Much was expected from Parker in the ongoing battle to escape the drop against the Blades, currently at the foot of the table.

The hosts enjoyed an energetic start, pressing back United, but were restricted to a raking, speculative shot by Andre Anguissa which went wide plus a Lookman drive well saved by visiting keeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Sheffield United, to their credit, were defending well and frustrating Fulham for much of the first half.

The Whites, for all their possession, simply lacked the required ingenuity to open up Chris Wilder's men.

Ivan Cavaleiro, meanwhile, tried an optimistic, fierce angled shot in 36 minutes that sailed inches over the crossbar. Ramsdale did well to hold another shot from range, this time by Harrison Reed.

Fulham maintained the tempo at the start of the second half, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek was denied by the feet of Ramsdale after a neat interchange with Josh Maja. It was, though, still all too scrappy and ponderous from the hosts' perspective.

Fulham appeared irritated – but they eventually wore down the Blades' admirable resistance.

He controlled a long Joachim Andersen pass on the left side of the United penalty area, before cutting inside Ethan Ampadu to fire a low shot home. It was his fourth league goal of the season and fully merited.

Fulham: Areola, Robinson, Adarabioyo, Andersen, Aina, Lookman (Decordova-Reid 90), Anguissa, Reed, Loftus-Cheek, Maja (Lemina 86), Cavaleiro (Tete 77)



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/lookmans-goal-gives-fulham-vital-win-in-battle-to-stay-up

Ademola Lookman earns vital win for Fulham against Sheffield United

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Fulham's Ademola Lookman celebrates his goal. Photograph: Tom Jenkins/The Guardian

Scott Parker positively bounced off the Craven Cottage pitch and it was not hard to understand why. There had only been one option for Fulham here: defeat the Premier League's bottom-placed team and confirm a degree of substance is developing alongside their sound structure and agreeable style.

This was an uncomfortable watch but the route to success did not especially matter. Fulham are now three points adrift of Newcastle, who they host on the final day of the season, and notwithstanding a surprise at Old Trafford tomorrow, they suddenly carry the momentum in a once-moribund relegation battle.

A few weeks ago Sheffield United might have hoped to say the same but that fire has now fizzled out. They required a victory of their own here to maintain any pretence of contact with safety and their goose is surely cooked. Although they dug a foothold with a mucky first-half performance, the Blades waited too long to display any attacking initiative and, while they departed with a strong sense of grievance, a point would have made little difference to any lingering prospects of survival.

"The pressure was on," Parker admitted. "It was a result game tonight and probably performance second, although I do think we got both. I'm very proud of the team. We all understood what this game was about."

It was little surprise that Ademola Lookman, the brightest forward on the pitch, broke United's resistance. The match had opened up a little after half-time, as everyone involved ultimately needed it to, and Lookman found himself in space in the 61st minute after controlling a marvellously flighted pass by Joachim Andersen. He appeared to have shown too much of the ball to Ethan Ampadu but the defender got his feet in a mess and Lookman nipped back in, darting inside from the left and drilling beneath goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

His first goal for Fulham had come against the same opponents; this one, his fourth, could prove priceless. So could the decision by the referee, Martin Atkinson, and subsequently the VAR official, Peter Bankes, not to award Sheffield United a penalty two minutes from the end of normal time.

The substitute Jayden Bogle had latched onto Kean Bryan's header but met heavy resistance from Alphonse Areola and ended up in a heap. To some minds it was a heroic block, the keeper diverting the ball away with his left foot before clipping Bogle with his right. To Chris Wilder it was a gross miscarriage of justice and, given the force of the collision, one could at least see where he was coming from.

"It's a reckless challenge and it's a penalty all day long," he said. "There's no question about it. I'm seeing a different game from anyone saying it's not a penalty. I'm not saying we were outstanding or dominated but once again fine margins have gone against us."

The control until then had been Fulham's although, for all their probing, it seemed for long periods that they were playing a familiar tune. Until Lookman's goal they stood on their own as the division's lowest scorers at home and that rarely looked likely to change in an opening period that brought few alarms for Wilder's side.

But a shot from Loftus-Cheek soon after the break, half-saved by Ramsdale and hacked away by George Baldock, signposted what would follow and the Blades could not find a way back. Enda Stevens shot too close to Areola and they threw the cavalry forward in those dying moments, but Wilder was left to fume.

"They won't have to put up with us much longer but there'll be another promoted team that gets the poor decisions we're on the end of," he said.

Fulham, by contrast, could yet emerge from this season on the right side of everything.



https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/feb/20/fulham-sheffield-united-premier-league-match-report

Fulham eke out rare and precious win as Lookman's strike buries the Blades

Fulham (0) 1 Lookman 61
Sheffield United (0) 0

A win-or-bust night for Fulham went their way, thanks to a goal just past the hour by Ademola Lookman - the one player who always seems capable of doing something special.

The winger drilled home through the legs of keeper Aaron Ramsdale after taking delivery of a searching ball from Joachim Andersen and riding Ethan Ampadu's weak challenge. 

It was his fourth league goal for the Whites and could prove to be so crucial in the Whites' bid to beat the drop.

The sense of relief at the end was palpable. This was a game the Whites simply had to win. It was only their second at the Cottage this season and only the fourth Scott Parker has overseen in 19 home Premier League games in charge.

They now sit only three points behind Newcastle and have reason to believe again. They are not tearing up trees but they are keeping their shape, look together, and are grinding out results.

Fulham made heavy weather of it though, against the doomed bottom-of-the-table Blades, who decided their best bet was to sit back and wait. 

And for all their dominance of the ball, there was little end product from the Whites – a familiar tale. 

In the first half, Lookman sent a powder-puff shot straight at Ramsdale and Ruben Loftus-Cheek blazed over. 

Lookman's break out of defence gave Ivan Cavaleiro an opportunity to cut inside and unleash a furious drive. That too went over the bar. Harrison Reed had another pop from distance.

It was often a case of carrying the ball at speed into enemy territory before the inevitable breakdown. 

They struggled to get in behind a well-organised rearguard marshalled by Phil Jagielka and the Blades were uncompromising in their approach. This felt like last-chance saloon territory for them.

Loftus-Cheek came very close to breaking the deadlock when he wriggled past a despairing Jagielka and prodded goalwards, only for George Baldock to clear off the line but a goal would finally come.

After the Lookman breakthrough, Enda Stevens ought to have drawn the Blades level when set free by Billy Sharp, with only Alphonse Areola to beat, but the Fulham stopper saved well with his legs.

And there was one more late scare when Areola had to use his legs again to block-tackle as Jayden Bogle pounced on a bouncing ball in the area – a challenge that for one heart-stopping moment looked like being grounds for a penalty shout.

It was a close as the sorry Blades came to breaking the narrative of a vital, gritty home win.

Whites: Areola – Aina, Andersen, Tosin, Robinson – Loftus-Cheek, Reed, Anguissa, Lookman (Decordova-Reid 90) – Cavaleiro (Tete 78), Maja (Lemina 86). Subs not used: Rodak, Hector, Odoi, Ream, Bryan, Onomah

Blades: Ramsdale – Basham (Norwood 51), Jagielka (Bogle 80), Bryan – Ampadu – Baldock, Stevens, Lundstram (McGoldrick 74), Fleck –McBurnie, Sharp. Subs not used: Lowe, Burke, Foderingham, Osborn, Brewster, Brunt



https://www.capitalfootball.co.uk/single-post/fulham-eke-out-rare-and-precious-win-as-lookman-s-strike-buries-the-blades

Lookman takes Fulham to within three points of safety


Ademola Lookman struck just past the hour mark as Fulham beat Sheffield United to claim a vital three points in their fight to preserve their top-flight status.

The hosts enjoyed the better of the first-half chances, with Ivan Cavaleiro firing over after cutting inside from the right and Harrison Reed working Aaron Ramsdale from outside the penalty area.

Enda Stevens cleared Ruben Loftus-Cheek's shot off the line seven minutes after the restart before Lookman broke the deadlock, firing beneath Ramsdale at his near post.

The visitors almost produced an instant reply but Stevens was denied by the legs of Alphonse Areola, before the Fulham 'keeper beat Jayden Bogle to the ball in the final minutes to preserve their clean sheet.

A fourth match unbeaten keeps Fulham in 18th, three points behind 17th-placed Newcastle United, who face Manchester United on Sunday evening.

Sheffield United remain bottom with 11 points from 25 matches.

Next fixtures

Fulham: 28 Feb v Crystal Palace (A)
Sheff Utd: 28 Feb v Liverpool (H)

Referee: Martin Atkinson. Assistants: Constantine Hatzidakis, Peter Kirkup. Fourth official: Gavin Ward. VAR: Peter Bankes. Assistant VAR: Andy Halliday.



https://www.premierleague.com/match/59140

Relegation looms as Newcastle are within three points of a drop spot

In a disappointing performance, Newcastle United couldn't come up with an upset on Monday vs. Chelsea to extend their lead over 18th-place Fulham. Then, Scott Parker's side settled for a draw vs. Burnley mid-week, keeping the edge for NUFC at six points.

But, today's result between Fulham and Sheffield United did not go in Newcastle's favor. The Cottagers, playing at Craven Cottage, dominated possession and controlled the match in a 1-0 victory. Ademola Lookman's goal gave Fulham a deserved three points which cut Newcastle's cushion over them to just three points.

Fulham carry a superior goal differential (-11 vs. -15) and the much better recent form with only one loss in their last seven Premier League matches. On the other hand, Newcastle have struggled mightily with only have two wins in their last 13 Premier League matches.

The Magpies have watched as their safety in the top flight went from somewhat secure to extremely shaky ground in 2021 under the guidance (or lack thereof) of Steve Bruce.

The schedule does get much more difficult for Fulham after their matchup with Crystal Palace next weekend. They will go on to face Spurs, Liverpool, and Manchester City in their next three fixtures.

During that stretch, Newcastle will have an easier go at it against West Bromwich Albion, Aston Villa, and Brighton.

While the competition level of their opponents and the one match in hand leans toward Newcastle, the recent form of the two clubs is definitely in favor of Fulham. This will be a relegation battle down the stretch between these two clubs and Newcastle United supporters won't be confident that their beloved club can pull things together under Brucey.



https://newcastletoons.com/2021/02/20/relegation-looms-newcastle-within-three-points-drop-spot/

Feeble Sheffield United's luck is out but they do not do enough to earn it at Fulham
In the face of unlikely odds, Sheffield United have been battling in 2021. In an all-too gentle game by the banks of the Thames, the fight seemed to have left them.

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TACKLE: John Lundstram challenges goalscorer Ademola Lookman

The Blades got fortunate with injuries last season, but Lady Luck has certainly cashed her chips in this. Chris Basham became the third member of last season's back three to fall prey to injury as his side suffered a 1-0 defeat at Fulham which means they now have fewer matches to play than points to make up to the Premier League safety mark.

In the 90th minute, Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola cleaned out Blades substitute Jayden Bogle. In-game communication from Stockley Park is not one of the Premier League's strengths but it seemed as if the Cottagers were given a free-kick and video assistant referee Gavin Ward did not even check the incident.

The way the night went, you would not have bet even someone else's last tenner on Billy Sharp putting the penalty away, but it summed up the Blades' luck. They could hardly argue they had earnt any, though.

It was distressing how feebly they succumbed.

If Ademola Lookman ran through Ethan Ampadu and shot through Aaron Ramsdale far too easily to lash the only goal of a forgettable game, then Enda Stevens attempt at an equaliser was just as badly lacking in conviction.

There are few things more dispiriting than when sportsmen accept their limitations, and Sheffield United might just have reached that point.

Not since Southport, bottom of the Football League in 1975-76, has an English team lost 20 of its first 25 league games. It had never happened in the top division until the Blades' game in west London.

The first 45 minutes were abysmal, the lack of urgency from two teams needed to do something dramatic – exceptional, in the Blades' case – to avoid relegation alarming. If you did not know better you would have thought it was 12th versus 13th in mid-April.

Knowing a win would allow them to move off the bottom of the table in the match which, according to the table, was the easiest they had left, the visitors allowed Fulham to have 73 per cent of the ball in the first half, perhaps because they could trust them to do nothing with it. They had four corners inside the first eight minutes without troubling goalkeeper Ramsdale.

They started with a slightly surprising configuration, Basham on the right of midfield, Ampadu behind in his normal midfield berth. Bogle had lost his place to George Baldock.

By the 20th minute Basham was pack in a more familiar position, Ampadu splitting John Lundstram and Fleck – the latter recovered from illness against the pre-match expectations – presumably in an attempt to stop the Cottagers seeing so much of the ball in midfield. If that was the aim, it did not work.

For all that, the hardest thing Ramsdale had to do before the interval was touch a couple of wayward crosses over his crossbar.

Ademola Lookman had a shot deflected, Andre-Frank Anguissa shot wide when an Antonee Robinson cross was allowed to travel way too far, Lookman shot at Ramsdale and Ruben Loftus-Cheek wasted the effort of twisting and turning his way into space after robbing Lundstram by shooting over, as Ivan Cavalerio would when played into the corner. Harrison Reed had an effort comfortably saved and Loftus-Cheek headed over at a corner.

Unfortunately for the Blades, yet to keep a Premier League clean sheet this season, Fulham injected a bit more oomph after the interval – not much, mind.

George Baldock diligently cleared off the line when Ramsdale took the sting out of a Loftus-Cheek shot in the 53rd minute. Basham had gone off by then, looking like he had pulled his left hamstring. John Egan and Jack O'Connell are already out injured.

The offside flag was up when Sharp, with Oli McBurnie in his way, put substitute Oliver Norwood's cross over. Had he found the net, the VAR may have given a goal, assuming Ward had not just pulled a sickie.

As it was, Lookman scored the only goal seven minutes later in the face of minimal resistance from Ampadu and Ramsdale.

When Sharp played Stevens in, he made it too easy for Areola to save with his legs.

Ramsdale made good saves to tip over from Ola Aina, and to deny Mario Lemina with his legs either side of the slightly bewildering Bogle foul on Areola, who seemed to get credit for getting a touch on the ball before his follow-through.

Fulham: Areola; Aina, Andersen, Tosin, Robinson; Reed, Anguissa; Cavaleiro (Tete 77), Loftus-Cheek, Lookman (De Cordova-Reid 90); Maja (Lemina 87).

Unused substitutes: Hector, Odoi, Rodak, Ream, Bryan, Onomah.

Sheffield United: Ramsdale; Baldock, Ampadu, Jagielka (Bogle 80), Bryan, Stevens; Basham (Norwood 51), Fleck, Lundstram (McGoldrick 74); McBurnie, Sharp.

Unused substitutes: Lowe, Burke, Foderingham, Osborn, Brewster, Brunt.

Referee: M Atkinson (West Yorkshire).



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/feeble-sheffield-uniteds-luck-is-out-but-they-do-not-do-enough-to-earn-it-at-fulham-3141518

Fulham 1-0 Sheffield United: Ademola Lookman seals crucial win in relegation six-pointer

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Fulham's first home Premier League victory since November took them within three points of 17th-placed Newcastle as they held on to win 1-0 against rock-bottom Sheffield United.

Ademola Lookman broke the deadlock for the Cottagers in the 61st minute, with the home side going on to secure only their fourth win of the season.

Scott Parker's men went into the game six points adrift of Newcastle but have closed the gap to just three, ahead of the Magpies' trip to Manchester United on Sunday.

Sheffield United, rooted to the foot of the table, struggled to really trouble in-form Fulham.

The game started quickly from both sides, with the noise from the dugouts adding to the tension of what seemed a must-win game.

The Blades looked more dangerous from set-pieces, but Fulham, as has been the case on many occasions this season, struggled to really test Aaron Ramsdale in the United goal.

Chris Wilder's men were penned back into their own half for much of the opening 45 minutes, but defended resolutely, with a number of well-timed trips in the midfield preventing Fulham from building up momentum.

Fulham's stand-in captain in the long-term absence of Tom Cairney, Joachim Andersen was a commanding presence at the back, not only in organising the defence but with his well-weighted long balls to the front players.

Harrison Reed had a shot from distance straight at Ramsdale, with the goalkeeper also in the right place to deny Lookman.

United went into the half-time break without a touch or attempt in the Fulham box but were doing a good job of defending their own, and got men behind the ball to break up the home side's attacks.

At the start of the second half, Ruben Loftus-Cheek came close to giving the home side the lead when he weaved his way through the United defence before his goal-bound shot hit Ramsdale's outstretched leg and was cleared off the line by George Baldock.

Lookman put the hosts ahead just after the hour mark with his fourth goal of the season, and his second against the Blades.

The 23-year-old worked his way into the area from the left-hand side before firing a low drive past Ramsdale and into the back of the net.

Less than five minutes later, the visitors had their first shot on target, with Alphonse Areola just denying Enda Stevens with his legs in a one-on-one situation.

United had a penalty shout in the final minutes of the game, when Areola dived out to deny Jayden Bogle. The goalkeeper put his body on the line and just managed to get a touch on the ball before the collision.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-vs-sheffield-united-result-premier-league-2021-lookman-b920623.html

The Newcastle faithful have entered full-blown panic mode on the back of Fulham's latest win

Newcastle's supporters have taken to social media in numbers this evening, to reveal their collective relegation concerns, on the back of Fulham's win over Sheffield United.

Lookman makes the difference
The final Premier League fixture of the day took place at Craven Cottage a short time ago.

The clash in question marked a crucial one in the battle against the drop, as Fulham welcomed Sheffield United to the capital.

Both sides headed into proceedings languishing in the relegation zone, albeit with the hosts 8 points clear of their basement-dwelling opponents.

And, when all was said and done, it was Scott Parker's Cottagers who went on to extend their advantage over both Sheffield United and West Brom, keeping the club's survival hopes very much alive in the process.

A solitary goal – netted by Ademola Lookman just past the hour mark – eventually proved the difference between the sides in southwest London:

Newcastle fret
Their victory this evening represents just the latest in a string of positive recent results for Fulham, who have now fallen to defeat in just one of their last seven Premier League outings.

In turn, the capital outfit, with momentum on their side, have moved to within 3 points of the side in 17th in the English top-flight.

The club in question? Newcastle.

And, as outlined above, if the latest social media activity on the part of the Magpies faithful is anything to go by, then panic mode has now fully settled in at St. James' Park.

Many appear to have already accepted that their side are destined for the drop, whereas others feel that, if Steve Bruce is moved on with immediate effect, Newcastle could yet stand a chance of preserving their top-flight status:



https://www.101greatgoals.com/news/the-newcastle-faithful-have-entered-full-blown-panic-mode-on-the-back-of-fulhams-latest-win/

Lookman lashes Fulham closer to safety

This wasn't a vintage Fulham performance. They never are at this stage of the season. Locked in a titanic struggle against relegation, it is more grit and guts that guile and pretty passing. Scott Parker admitted that beating Sheffield United was a must as he looked for the Cottagers' survival bid to step up a gear and his side, although clearly in the ascendancy for much of the ninety minutes, just did enough. Ademola Lookman provided the crucial goal – a classy finish – after some artistry from Joachim Andersen had unlocked the Blades defence, although the hosts were indebted to some brave goalkeeping from Alphonse Areola for preserving their slender advantage.

The players' roars of delight told you everything you needed to know about the importance of this success. In another time, those screams would have been drowned out by raucous Hammersmith End celebrations acclaiming another massive victory. Fulham fought to the bitter end, battling to protect the narrowest of leads – and, while there could be no doubting Sheffield United's desire, the Blades still look blunt in the final third. Chris Wilder won't be admitting it yet, but as he alluded to earlier this week, familiar failings in both penalty areas have left his workmanlike side too short to be competitive at the highest level this term.

The transformation in Fulham's prospects has been stark over the past seven days. Seven points from three games might well have been beyond Parker's wildest dreams – especially when you consider that two of those fixtures were staged at venues where Fulham have amassed a single league win in seventy years. This was not a complete domination like the one Everton suffered at Goodison Park and had much more in common with the nervy affair at Burnley in midweek, but it was no less important. You measure character in these moments of adversity and Parker's side seem to have galloons of it.

The hosts tried to play at a high tempo from the outset but, despite buzzing around the Blades box regularly, they struggled to make a serious impression. Aaron Ramsdale flapped at a couple of corners but Fulham's best openers were speculative shots from outside the area. Lookman saw one deflected wide, sent another straight at the goalkeeper and Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa – restored to the Fulham engine room – fired off target.

It was when Fulham got runners behind the visitors' back three that they looked the most dangerous. Ivan Cavaleiro, deployed so often as a lone forward this season, had looked lively in a more natural right wing role but spurned a glorious opportunity having darted into the penalty area, lifting an optimistic effort over when a cross appeared more appropriate. Ruben Loftus-Cheek flitted in and out of proceedings in the first period, spooning a shot high from the edge of the area as Fulham's frustration that their spritely start hadn't paid dividends began to surface.

Sheffield United had turned the game into a scrappy squabble but struggled to create anything of note, despite Wilder fielding two strikers after making five changes from the side that subsided so sadly at West Ham. Injuries have been the bane of his campaign – robbing the Blades of their regular central defensive trio – and misfortune struck again shortly after half-time when Chris Basham injured a hamstring having sprinted to try and subdue Lookman.

They almost went behind immediately afterwards when Loftus-Cheek tiptoed his way through the penalty area and appeared to have prodded the ball beyond Ramsdale, only for George Baldock to clear off the line. The reprieve was short-lived, though, as the opening goal arrived from a more direct type of football than you usually associate with Parker's philosophy. Andersen's cultured through ball travelled from the halfway line to release Lookman on the left edge of the penalty area and, when the winger got a bit of fortune, to progress past the stumbling Ethan Ampadu, he cashed in by lashing a low shot between Ramsdale's legs and into the net.

Going behind only served to galvanise the Blades, who saw veteran striker Billy Sharp and Ollie McBurnie waste good chances in quick succession that might have survived VAR reviews for offside and they should have been level within three minutes. Sharp was the provider this time, capitalising on a careless concession of possession from Loftus-Cheek to play in Enda Stevens but Areola saved with his feet.

All of a sudden, Fulham were far less adventurous in attack. Ola Aina extended Ramsdale with a rasping drive from distance that needed to be tipped over, but the pressure was being applied at the other end of the field. Areola bailed out his backline again in the final minute of normal time blocking bravely with his feet as substitute Jayden Bogle looked favourite to reach a free-kick dropping dangerously inside the six-yard box. The review concluded there was no case to answer, with both players fully committed to getting a decisive touch.

There were seven minutes of added time for Fulham to suffer through but their bid to reel in Newcastle, now just three points ahead in seventeenth as they head to Old Trafford tomorrow, has now gathered serious momentum. Parker has attested all season that he believed that Fulham were far from done for – his players are now proving him right.

FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Areola; Aina, Robinson, Andersen, Adarabioyo; Reed, Anguissa; Cavaleiro (Tete 78), Lookman (Decordova-Reid 90), Loftus-Cheek; Maja (Lemina 86). Subs (not used): Rodak, Odoi, Hector, Ream, J. Bryan, Onomah.

BOOKED: Anguissa.

GOAL: Lookman (61).

SHEFFIELD UNITED (5-3-2): Ramsdale; Baldock, Stephens, Ampadu, Jagielka (Bogle 80), K. Bryan; Basham (Norwood 51), Lundstram (McGoldrick 74), Fleck; Sharp, McBurnie. Subs (not used): Foderingham, Lowe, Burke, Osborn, Brunt, McGoldrick.

BOOKED: Baldock, McGoldrick.

REFEREE: Martin Atkinson (West Yorkshire).

VIDEO ASSISTANT REFEREE: Peter Bankes (Merseyside).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/02/lookman-lashes-fulham-closer-to-safety/

Verdict: Sheffield United doomed but Fulham dream on

Fulham stuttered their way closer to a safer place with a scrapping 1-0 win over Sheffield United. It could prove to be such a vital three points.

Scott Parker had to admit the basement battle, and battle is the right word, was "massive".

Actually, it probably relegated a spirited United, But after seven points in a week, it might help keep the Whites in the Premier League.

However, substitute Mario Lemina decided the game needed a telling climax, so he tugged on a Sheffield shirt for a dangerous free-kick that saw Fulham heart rates soar.

Boss Parker predicted that Alphonse Areola would keep his side in games – and did he ever in the dying embers of this one.

The keeper's shin on Sunday is likely to bear the memento of a painful block to deny Jayden Bogle from the free-kick, but the bruise was well worth it.

Areola just about made sure it was drinking-up time in United's last chance saloon.

Lookman delivers
Ademola Lookman likes cutting in from the left against United.

He did it at Bramall Lane in October for his first goal in Fulham colours, and he did it again for his latest strike.

His right-foot low hit may have gone through the legs of Aaron Ramsdale, but what a hit!

Watching it in real time made it impossible to see the flight. Ramsdale or any other keeper could only have heard the whistle as it flew past.

But the Whites rode their luck.

None more so when on 66 minutes when Enda Stevens got behind the white wall and side-footed straight at Areola.

The keeper did the necessary, but had Stevens gone for anywhere else, it would have been 1-1 only five minutes after Fulham took the lead.

Whites dig in
Unlike at Burnley in midweek, the home side clung on.

The first half had the cutting edge of a plastic spoon.

Fulham were bad, but Areola could have taken a good book and planted an armchair in the six-yard box such was the 'threat' from dull Blades.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek headed over, and almost by default, Ivan Cavaleiro attempted a shot after 35 minutes from an impossible angle on the right. It was pure selfishness.

How he expected to score when the angle of goal he had visible was five degrees at most, only he will know.

But the classic Fulham moment came a few minutes before the end of the first half, when a flowing move ended with Ola Aina receiving on the right. It needed a first-time outswinger into the mix.

But he stood on the ball, pondered, and eventually the delivery was easily dealt with.

You can probe and press, but that lack of a first-time pass could do for Fulham even now.

Midfield strength
There were pluses besides Lookman and Areola.

A while back it appeared the second defensive midfield role was between Mario Lemina and Harrison Reed.

Andre-Frank Anguissa was a given, or so it seemed, but there are now fans insisting Reed is future England material.

That's pushing it, at least for the time being, but the former Southampton player was considered back-up before a ball was kicked in September.

It says much about Reed's drive and determination he is now in the driving seat – and getting better.

There was a second-half moment when he sprinted 70 yards to pressure Ramsdale into a hurried clearance and then sprinted back.

Reed doesn't deserve to be in a side facing the drop. But his presence may yet be the saving grace that keeps Fulham holding the trapdoor shut.

The unflappable Parker couldn't help himself at the end.

His out-of-character joyous reaction was a release that said a big game at Craven Cottage went their way for the first time since November 2, and a first double of the season.

United are doomed. Fulham can dream on.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/verdict-sheffield-united-doomed-but-fulham-dream-on-and-what-a-success-story-reed-is-becoming

Fulham 1-0 Sheffield United: Cottagers' revival continues

Fulham's first home Premier League victory since November took them within three points of 17th-placed Newcastle as they held on to win 1-0 against rock-bottom Sheffield United.

Ademola Lookman broke the deadlock for the Cottagers in the 61st minute, with the home side going on to secure only their fourth win of the season.

Scott Parker's men went into the game six points adrift of Newcastle but have closed the gap to just three, ahead of the Magpies' trip to Manchester United on Sunday.

Sheffield United, rooted to the foot of the table, struggled to really trouble in-form Fulham.

The game started quickly from both sides, with the noise from the dugouts adding to the tension of what seemed a must-win game.

The Blades looked more dangerous from set-pieces, but Fulham, as has been the case on many occasions this season, struggled to really test Aaron Ramsdale in the United goal.

Chris Wilder's men were penned back into their own half for much of the opening 45 minutes, but defended resolutely, with a number of well-timed trips in the midfield preventing Fulham from building up momentum.

Fulham's stand-in captain in the long-term absence of Tom Cairney, Joachim Andersen was a commanding presence at the back, not only in organising the defence but with his well-weighted long balls to the front players.

Harrison Reed had a shot from distance straight at Ramsdale, with the goalkeeper also in the right place to deny Lookman.

United went into the half-time break without a touch or attempt in the Fulham box but were doing a good job of defending their own, and got men behind the ball to break up the home side's attacks.

At the start of the second half, Ruben Loftus-Cheek came close to giving the home side the lead when he weaved his way through the United defence before his goal-bound shot hit Ramsdale's outstretched leg and was cleared off the line by George Baldock.

Lookman put the hosts ahead just after the hour mark with his fourth goal of the season, and his second against the Blades.

The 23-year-old worked his way into the area from the left-hand side before firing a low drive past Ramsdale and into the back of the net.

Less than five minutes later, the visitors had their first shot on target, with Alphonse Areola just denying Enda Stevens with his legs in a one-on-one situation.

United had a penalty shout in the final minutes of the game, when Areola dived out to deny Jayden Bogle. The goalkeeper put his body on the line and just managed to get a touch on the ball before the collision.



https://www.football365.com/news/fulham-v-sheffield-united-follow-all-the-action-live-on-f365

Parker hails players after vital Fulham win

Fulham boss Scott Parker paid tribute to his team after they secured a vital win over Sheffield United in the battle to stay up.

Ademola Lookman's second-half goal was enough for the Whites in a tense game at Craven Cottage.

Parker said: "This group of players are honest, want to learn, want to get better, understand the challenges of this league and what it brings sometimes and what you need in these moments.

"This team has constant belief, They're a confident team and that's the way we need to continue."

Fulham's win cut the gap between them and Newcastle to three points and they are now just four behind Brighton, although they have played a match more than both those sides.

"I'm not really looking at who's above us or who's around us. All I'm focusing on is us and what we need to do," Parker insisted.

"We need to keep showing what we've shown for large parts of the season."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/parker-hails-players-after-vital-fulham-win

Parker 'proud' after massive Fulham win

Scott Parker was delighted after Fulham beat relegation rivals Sheffield United tonight to move to within three points of Premier League safety.

The Whites made it seven points from three games after Ademola Lookman's second half strike was enough to beat the bottom of the table Blades at Craven Cottage. The Fulham manager acknowledged that the scrappy game was something of a battle, but told his post-match press conference of his immense pride in his side's display.

"I'm very proud of the team. It's been a tough week in terms of the games we've had to play, the travelling we've had to do. I think we all understood tonight what this game was about. The message to the team before the game was to focus on us, let's not listen to the noise that's been created around this game.

"Throughout this year there's been one soul focus and that is us, that's been my constant message. I know with that, us showing our quality and playing with a freedom we'll get results, and I think that was proven tonight.

Parker saluted the character of his squad, who have grown in confidence throughout a challenging season.

This group of players are honest, want to learn, want to get better, understand the challenges of this league, what it brings sometimes and what you need in these moments. This team has constant belief, they're a confident team and that's the way we need to continue.

Parker insisted he wouldn't be worrying about the outcome of Newcastle's trip to Old Trafford tomorrow night – preferring to concentrate on ensuring Fulham's performance levels remain high ahead of another crucial clash with Crystal Palace next weekend.

"I'm not really looking at who's above us or who's around us. All I'm focusing on is us and what we need to do. We need to keep showing what we've shown for large parts of the season. This team has been so competitive, and if you've watched our games over the last 15 or 16 games, the fine margins are that a couple of draws should've been wins.

"At this present moment in time, my focus is on us and us continuing to get better. When the curtain comes down at the end of the season, we'll either be good enough to stay in this division or not, but the main message to this group of players is 'let's keep fighting, let's keep improving and let's keep moving'."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/02/parker-proud-after-massive-fulham-win/

Cottage Talk Full Time: Watch Out Newcastle United!

Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.

This is our initial reaction show of Fulham's 1-0 victory against Sheffield United.


You can also listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2021/2/20/22293253/cottage-talk-full-time-watch-out-newcastle-united

Ademola Lookman: The Brght Spark Keeping the Fulham Season Alive

Many will be quick to dismiss Fulham's chances of survival, and perhaps rightfully so. After all, they could be six points adrift of safety come the end of the current match day. Yet, one man refuses to concede safety, and that's Ademola Lookman: The guy keeping the Fulham season alive.

In truth, he belongs at a higher level. In the Bundesliga at RB Leipzig– where he is on loan from- Lookman played at a level he is destined to be. The free-flowing football suits his sharp-minded, skilful play down to the bone. So just how did that sharp mind end up in a relegation scrap?

That question is yet to be answered, but Scott Parker won't mind as he sees Lookman continue to provide Fulham with a glimmer of hope.

Scott Parker's Perfect Player
A lot can be said about the Fulham season, but their attempt to consistently implement a modern, easy on the eye style of play cannot be slated. Scott Parker is a fantastic manager who, with limited resources, has implemented a tactic suited to the top teams.

Ultimately, with these limited resources, Fulham may face the drop. But, they won't suffer like West Bromwich Albion will should they join them. Fulham's style of play considers the long-term and a bounce back to the top flight.

West Brom try to implement safe, scrappy, old-fashioned football to simply survive and not progress. In the long run, when relegation occurs, this same approach will not result in promotion.

And, as of right now, it is the bolder approach of Parker that is outdoing Allardyce's tried and trusted 'survival mode' football. And Ademola Lookman is at the heart of that for Fulham.

He is the constant figure driving them forward, the man with the golden touch when needed, the player to link the play, and Scott Parker's match made in heaven.

Parker knows what it feels like to be a star in a struggling team. The former player won the PFA Player of the Year award in the season his side, West Ham United suffered relegation.

Lookman, at 23, is in a similar position to the one his current manager found himself in all those years ago. And, it is the mark of a true player when, as the quality drops around them, their own light continues to shine brighter than ever.

Lookman Could Take Fulham to Safety
When Fulham have needed a spark of life this season; a player to take their neat and tidy football and turn it into quick, progressive play, Lookman has stepped up.

The loanee has been involved in goals against Everton, Leicester City, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and, most importantly, relegation rivals Sheffield United.

His winning strike against the Blades lifted Fulham to within three points of safety. Newcastle have a game in hand, yes, and could extend the gap. But, at the very least, Lookman's strike has provided all involved at Fulham with some much-needed hope.



https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2021/02/20/lookman-keeping-fulham-season-alive/

Stats indicate Lookman is Fulham's key attacking player
The English winger of Nigerian descent proved his reliability in Scott Parker's team this season after propelling the Cottagers past the Blades

Ademola Lookman has now had a hand in seven goals for Fulham in the 2020-21 Premier League campaign, having found the net in the Cottagers 1-0 defeat of Sheffield United on Saturday night.

With the score still 0-0 at Craven Cottage, the former English youth international handed Scott Parker's men all points at stake thanks to his 61st-minute effort.

Profiting from a long ball for Joachim Andersen, the former Everton man controlled the ball with his chest, turned Ethan Ampadu, before unleashing a shot past goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

As a result of that, the Super Eagles prospect has now contributed four goals and three assists in the Premier League for Fulham so far this term - the most of any Cottager.

Also, the 23-year-old's tally in 22 English elite division games brings him one goal short of his best in a top-flight campaign. While at German elite division side RB Leipzig in 2017-18, he scored five goals in 11 Bundesliga appearances.

Despite an improved effort after the conceding first, Chris Wilder's Blades tried in vain towards getting an equaliser as they now account for 20 defeats out of 25 outings, which sees them remain at the base of the log having garnered just 11 points.

After a notable shift, Lookman was replaced in the 90th minute by Bobby Reid. Bordeaux loanee Josh Maja was handed his third start but came off for Gabonese midfielder Mario Lemina with four minutes left to play, while the trio of Ola Aina, Tosin Adarabioyo and Cameroonian star Andre-Frank Anguissa saw action from start to finish.

"I'm very proud of the team," Parker told the club website after the game.

"It's been a tough week in terms of the games we've had to play, the travelling we've had to do.

"I think we all understood tonight what this game was about.

"The message to the team before the game was to focus on us, let's not listen to the noise that's been created around this game.

"Throughout this year there's been one focus and that is us, that's been my constant message.

"I know with that, us showing our quality and playing with a freedom we'll get results, and I think that was proven tonight."

Even with this triumph, Fulham remain in relegation waters with 22 points from 25 fixtures to occupy the 18th spot. Unbeaten in their last four games, they are guests of Crystal Palace on February 28.



https://www.goal.com/en/news/stats-prove-lookman-is-fulhams-key-attacking-player/55srh33lm2b319wsx5xiry64o

Every word emotional Scott Parker said on Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Harrison Reed & catching Newcastle

(https://i2-prod.football.london/fulham-fc/article19882167.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/0_GettyImages-1303218208.jpg)
Scott Parker, Manager of Fulham celebrates his side's victory after the Premier League match between Fulham and Sheffield United (Image: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

You looked emotional at the end, how are you feeling after that?

Yeah, I'm very proud of the team. Really proud in terms of what I asked from them tonight, what I've asked from them this week to be honest with you. It's been a tough week in erms of the games we've had to play, the travel we've had to do. I think we all udnerstood tonight what this game was and what it was about. Very proud.

The message before the game was 'lets focus on us, let's not listen to the noise that has been created around this game because this year there has been one sole focus and that is us'. That's been my constant message and I know with that, showing our qualities, playing with freedom, we'll get results.

Seven points in the last week, that is a team fighting for their lives isn't it?

Yeah, there is not one question in me in terms of what you see there. As a group players, and I include players who aren't involved or starting at the moment - this squad, this group I see every day, and you see them on a Saturday, this group of players are honest, want to learn, want to get better and understand the challenge of this league.

What you need in these moments and in top teams - you have people who are constant Monday-Friday who want to get better and I think that's what you're seeing out there. This team has constant belief, a confident team and that's what we need t continue.

Do you feel like you're on the coattails of Newcastle and Brighton now?

I'll be honest with you, I'm not really looking who is above us or who is around us. All I am focused on is us and what we need to do. We need to keep coming in and we need to keep showing what we've shown or large parts. This team has been so competitive and if you watch our games over the last 15 or 16 the fine margins probably are we got some results that should have been draws or that should have been wins.

While at this present moment at time my focus is on us and us improving and keeping getting better, when the curtain comes down at the end of the season we'll have either been good enough to stay in this devision or not. Main message to this group of players is let's keep fighting and let's keep improving.

How happy were you with the performances of Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Harrison Reed?

They were both exceptional really and I thought everyone today involved was excellent. But the two players you highlight were immense really. Ruben, we all understand his quality, certainly I do. Obviously Harrison has been pivotal in what we did alst year and this season.

Two players that are young, two players in Harrison and even Ruben to a certain extent who have not had a lot of football at this level but they're taking it very well.

What does the win show about the players' ability to handle pressure?

I think that was a massive plus because the pressure was on. It was a result game tonight and performance second but we got both. There was that pressure on it but throughout this year that pressure has been there in many different ways whether there have been question marks around whether the team is good enough for the level or if you can win games instead of drawing them. Throughout that pressure they've managed to come out of it at times. It was a big win.

What did you make about Joachim Andersen's performance and importance of his distribution?

He's been vital in the way we want to play, the style of the way we want to play it's key that you need ball playing defenders - we've got that in all our defenders really. He's been immense since walking in the building, a top player that has been pivotal to what we've done and his distribution, his assist for the goal was first class as well.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-sheffield-united-premier-league-19882170

Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder left exasperated after Alphonse Areola's 'reckless' challenge on Jayden Bogle did not result in a penalty in Fulham loss... as he concedes top flight 'won't have to put up with us much longer'

    Chris Wilder slammed the refereeing decisions that have gone against his team
    The Sheffield United boss thought they should have had a penalty at Fulham
    Alphonse Areola collided with Jayden Bogle in a painful tackle for the defender
    The Blades suffered another defeat and took a step closer to relegation
    Wilder said the Premier League 'wont have to put up with us much longer'

Chris Wilder bemoaned decisions going against Sheffield United but said the Premier League 'won't have to put up with us much longer' after the rock-bottom Blades' 1-0 defeat to Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Ademola Lookman broke the deadlock for the Cottagers in the 61st minute, with the home side going on to secure only their fourth win of the season.

United had a penalty shout in the final minutes of the game when home goalkeeper Alphonse Areola dived out to deny Jayden Bogle.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2021/02/21/00/39561344-0-image-a-105_1613867153762.jpg)
Chris Wilder bemoaned refereeing decisions going against Sheffield United this season

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2021/02/21/00/39561174-0-image-a-104_1613867130782.jpg)
The Blades boss thought his team should have had a penalty for Alphonse Areola's tackle on Jayden Bogle

The goalkeeper put his body on the line and just managed to get a touch on the ball before the collision, and nothing was given but Wilder did not agree with referee Martin Atkinson or the VAR.

He said: 'Where are these decisions coming from? I'm just not getting it. I'm not getting that as well because we had John Lundstram sent off (against Brighton in December), reckless.

'People talk about out of control and reckless, I'm not sure that goalkeeper was in control and knew everything about that challenge. Whether it's committed, whether it's desire, whether it's brave, it is reckless, no control.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2021/02/21/00/39561352-0-image-a-106_1613867232448.jpg)
Wilder thought the goalkeeper's challenge was reckless and could have hurt his player

'(I'm) delighted that my young, right wing-back, who's going to be a player, getting used to the Premier League is back on the coach with us tonight, and not somewhere else, delighted, because he could quite easily be...without even talking about whether it's a penalty or not, or us getting that penalty and obviously us sticking that penalty away because the skipper is decent on spot-kicks and us trying to win a game of football.

'Obviously covered that point, I don't know if there's anything else to say, we've just got a long list of decisions that have gone against it, we had one that went over the line (last season) that still aggravates me and maybe I'm sure that I didn't cause enough of a fuss but they won't have to put up with us much longer.

'But there'll be another promoted team that maybe comes into the division and will get the rubbish decisions, poor decisions that we are on the end of.'

Scott Parker's men went into the game six points adrift of Newcastle in 17th but have closed the gap to just three ahead of the Magpies' trip to Manchester United on Sunday.

They also recorded only their second home victory of the season, with the first coming in November, to the delight of the manager.

'I'm very proud of the team in terms of what I asked them tonight and what I've asked them this week to be quite honest with you,' Parker said.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2021/02/21/00/39561388-0-image-a-107_1613867328096.jpg)
Fulham managed to get their first home win since November to close the gap at the bottom

'It's been a tough week in terms of the games we've had to play, the travel we've had to do and I think we all understood tonight what this game was and what it was about.

'I'm very proud that the message to the team before the game was us, let's focus on us, let's not listen to the noise that's been created around this game, because throughout this year there's been one sole focus and that's been us. That's been my constant message.

'I know with that, and us showing our quality and our freedom we'll get results really and I think that was proven tonight.'



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9282713/Sheffield-United-boss-Chris-Wilder-angry-Alphonse-Areolas-reckless-tackle-Jayden-Bogle.html

From a Newcastle United fan to Fulham manager Scott Parker: Thank you!

Okay, let's address the elephant in the room from the start. The majority of you, if not all of you, came to this article with a confused look on your face after reading the selected title. No, this is not click-bait. This article is a real thank you to Fulham's manager, Scott Parker, but here is the logic behind all this.

With Fulham's victory over Sheffield United yesterday, the promoted side are within three points of reaching and leapfrogging Newcastle United in the table. Newcastle United have blown a ten-point lead over their relegation rivals, and the crisis will only deepen with an expected loss against Manchester United later today.

The fans have placed Steve Bruce in the hot seat for months now, but Mike Ashley and his executives have stood by their man. According to several reports out of Tyneside over the last couple of weeks, Bruce's job would only be in jeopardy if the Magpies were to fall into the bottom three.

That could very well happen over the next week if Newcastle United lose today, lose against Wolverhampton on the 27th of this month, and Fulham claim three points against Crystal Palace on February 28th.

Scott Parker's resurgence with Fulham could lead to Steve Bruce's departure from Newcastle United.
The pressure is on Newcastle United like never before since earning promotion back to the Premier League after the 2016-17 Championship campaign. A third relegation under the ownership of Mike Ashley?

As neglectful as the business tycoon has been since his takeover, one must believe that he will part ways with Bruce as soon as his men slip to 18th, although that decision should have been made before the team fell into this situation.

With Graeme Jones on hand, he is the only member of the coaching staff the players listen to and give their all for on the pitch. Whether or not he is a long-term solution for the managerial position at Newcastle United remains to be seen, but Parker and his Fulham squad have certainly placed the pressure of the world on Bruce's shoulders.

I have utilized this platform several times to call for Bruce's sacking, and everyone knows he should have been relieved of his duties after the embarrassing defeat to Sheffield United. Unless a miracle happens and the Toon manage to impress and take points from their next three opponents, I think we can all thank Parker for Bruce's departure.

In my eyes, it is a matter of "when" for Steve Bruce, not "if". Yesterday's result that favored Fulham makes today's trip to Old Trafford all the more critical and difficult for Newcastle United. Kick off is scheduled for 19:00.



https://newcastletoons.com/2021/02/21/newcastle-fan-fulham-manager-scott-parker-thank-you/

Graeme Souness' astonishing outburst on referees as Sheffield United denied Jayden Bogle penalty

Sheffield United were denied a late penalty in their 1-0 defeat at Fulham and Graeme Souness launched a stinging attack on referees in this country as a result

Graeme Souness questioned the standard of officiating in the Premier League after Sheffield United were denied a stonewall penalty in the dying stages of their 1-0 defeat at Fulham.

Jayden Bogle was upended by Alphonse Areola with United looking to find a late leveller at Craven Cottage but neither referee Martin Atkinson nor the VAR deemed the challenge worthy of a penalty.

It prompted an angry outburst from Souness, who claimed the referees in this country are not up to scratch and suggested Areola's tackle was an 'assault' on Blades full-back Bogle.

"If that challenge, I'm reluctant to call it a tackle, if that challenge happens anywhere else on the football pitch, it 's a sending-off! Not just a penalty, it's a sending-off," he said.

"I just don't get referees.

"They make it up as they go along, referees, they really do. What planet are they on?

"The problem we have with referees is they're just not very good, the last World Cup how many English referees did we have? None. That's how good our referees are.

"That is an assault. I'm not saying he has gone deliberately to hurt him but that is a foul all day long, it's a penalty all day long and for me, it's a sending-off.

"They really do make it up as they go along. When I played it was 'i's okay, you've got the ball first and then his momentum takes the player out', today it's he got the ball first but the momentum then injured the player so it's a foul.

"That is what you are describing there, that is a penalty seven days a week and I just don't know where they get these referees from.

"We saw one in the first game [Liverpool vs Everton] with [Dominic] Calvert-Lewin, for me that's not a penalty on Trent Alexander[-Arnold], he has fallen over before he gets to Trent Alexander[-Arnold]. It's not a penalty and that is definitely a penalty.

"100%, all day long. I can't back Chris Wilder up any more, that is a penalty all day long. It's a ridiculous decision by another very, very poor referee."

The failure to award a penalty only served to compound the Blades' misery after Ademola Lookman's second-half strike put United's relegation rivals ahead at Craven Cottage and a 20th defeat of the season leaves Chris Wilder's side with a near-impossible task to preserve their top-flight status.

But Souness believes the Blades boss will rightfully be frustrated by the failure to come away from the game with nothing to show for it as he doubled down on his criticism of the officials.

"Look how high he is, he came out and said it was a 50-50 challenge, but he's endangering the opposition," Souness added.

"The quicker we get a different setup for referees and get some ex-players into the game... because we're in great danger of killing the Premier League with these referees and the Premier League has the power to come up with a different way with the referees.

"Ex-players should be involved in our game, they've had their chance, our referees are so poor. So poor.

"There are lots of ex-players who would like to referee.

"Ones who have finished with injury, not everyone plays in the Premier League and earns serious money.

"Get some ex-pros trained up and you won't have incidents like that where managers are tearing their hair out all the way back from Sheffield."



https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/souness-sheffield-united-bogle-areola-19882251

Andersen 'buzzing' after big win

Centre back Joachim Andersen was delighted after Fulham recorded a massive win by beating bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United at Craven Cottage last night.

The Whites moved to within three points of safety after Ademola Lookman's second half strike sunk the Blades. The Danish defender felt Fulham's recent improved performances fully merited a return of seven points in a week, which has breathed new life into Fulham's bid to beat the drop.

Andersen told FulhamFCTV after the final whistle:

"When we came into the dressing room, everyone was buzzing and, like you said, it's been a fantastic week and something we've been waiting for and something we deserved because we played so well in the last months and we didn't get the results we wanted. This week, we are getting there and we're getting seven points out of nine and that's really positive and we just have to continue now.

He was delighted with another composed defensive showing that left goalkeeper Alphonse Areola almost a spectator until his late, vital intervention at the feet of Jayden Bogle.

"We spoke about how it was going to be a little bit the same game like Burnley. They also want to play long balls to McBurnie and I think we dealt with that really, really well – also against Burnley we did well. A clean sheet is always good – but to be fair, I just want to win, I don't care about the clean sheet now! Of course, a clean sheet helps the team and if we can have a clean sheet and a win that's always good."

Andersen said that Fulham upped the intensity after the break having dominated the first half but failed to convert a number of presentable chances that had come their way.

"We spoke in the half-time [interval] about that. We were doing really well but we needed more people in the box because we need to have four or five players in there because it's more difficult for defenders. I know that as a defender – it's more difficult with bodies around you – and I think we did that better in the second half and we had some big, big chances to make it two or three nil. We have to do that better. We still have to finish our chances and that's something we are working on."

He denied that Scott Parker's side had switched to a more direct approach after the interval, insisting that Fulham had always intended to try and play balls behind the Blades' backline. It was Andersen's own superb pass that unlocked the Sheffield United defence for Lookman's winner.

"That was something we spoke about already before the game. There was no difference from the first half to the second half in the way we were playing with the ball. I think maybe there were a little bit tired and there was more space. Also, for the goal with Ade there was more space in behind. You know if you can get Ade or some of the other offensive goes one on one things are going to happen and luckily we scored."

Andersen is targeting another three points at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace next week as the Whites look to pile more pressure on the teams directly above them in the table.

"Again, a game we need to win. A game we can win. I think Crystal Palace is a team that suits us; we just have to play our game. Like I said, we've been doing so well for months now and we just missed the small things. It seems that things are coming our way now. I hope we can build on that and continue."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/02/andersen-buzzing-after-big-win/

Super Eagles Legend In Attendance At Craven Cottage As Lookman Nets Fulham's Winning Goal

1994 Africa Cup of Nations-winning striker Efan Ekoku was in attendance at Craven Cottage on Saturday night as Ademola Lookman enhanced his growing reputation by scoring the game-winning goal for Fulham in a 1-0 win over Sheffield United.

Ekoku, who usually works as a commentator for Premier League Productions, was on commentary duties for the domestic audience for the game in southwest London.

Manager Scott Parker picked four Nigerian players Tosin Adarabioyo, Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina and Josh Maja in his starting lineup and a fifth Josh Onomah was a non-playing substitute.

Fulham were the better team in the first half but didn't have the real creativity in the final third to test the Blades goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Two-goal hero against Everton, Maja was very quiet in the first part of the game but it was down to poor service.

The big moment came in the 61st minute when Lookman cut inside and drilled a shot into the back of the net for his fourth goal in Fulham colours.

Aina tried his luck with a dipping drive which was saved by the Sheffield United goalkeeper in the 73rd minute.

Following the win, Fulham are now three points from safety before the London derby against Eberechi Eze's Crystal Palace next Sunday.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel



https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=39027

Andersen anchors Fulham's survival surge

Fulham have had an awful lot of loanees lately, but it is hard to recall one who's slotted in as seamlessly as Joachim Andersen. The Danish defender is more than just the critical piece in Scott Parker's revamped rearguard – he's a leader of serious stature as well. Vocal on the field, a calm and composed communicator who reads the game impeccably, Andersen's importance to Fulham's relegation battle was underlined by the fact he was handed the captain's armband just four games into his Craven Cottage career and he has grown gradually in importance ever since.

Andersen's partnership with Tosin Adarabioyo has blossomed into one of the league's most successful. Before the pair arrived at Craven Cottage, Fulham had conceded eleven goals in four fixtures and looked like a basket case at the back. Oppositions were rampaging through a shambolic defence at will and relegation appeared a foregone conclusion. The task in front of Andersen and Adarabioyo – neither of whom had played a single Premier League minute – was considerable and yet they provided a reassuring sense of security from the outset, with the Whites grabbing their first point of the season straightaway at Sheffield United and a clean sheet against West Brom in their very next outing.

The dramatic metamorphosis to a more parsimonious presence at the back has continued over a longer period. Undoubtedly helped by Parker's switch to a five at the back, Fulham have conceded just seventeen goals in the nineteen league games that Andersen has played in – with seven clean sheets. The latest of which, in the home win over bottom of the table Sheffield United, might prove to be the most crucial – lifting the Whites just three points away from safety. Adarabioyo leads the list of Premier League defenders for number of clearances, whilst Andersen himself is sixth. The Dane is second in the Premier League in terms of aerial duels won and tops the charts for number of interceptions in his own penalty area.

Andersen's primary responsibility remains keeping the ball out of the net, something he has proven remarkably adept at, but his contribution to Fulham's resurgence is far greater than mere defensive reassurance. In many ways, he's the perfect fit for Parker's own footballing philosophy. Comfortable with the ball at his feet, Andersen will regularly raid forward himself – he did it twice to great effect against the Blades – and frequently unlocks opposition rearguards with raking passes. One such marvellous through ball proved the difference last night, releasing Ademola Lookman into the inside left channel for the winning goal, but just as important have been his precise passes to find midfielders in space at the start of several Fulham moves. He was successful with 94 of them last night as Fulham passed the Blades into submission and rarely wasted a ball.

You sense the 24 year-old's impact off the field has been just as transformational for Fulham's fortunes. One of the greatest contrast between this team and the two that have been relegated from the top flight in the past seven years has been their resilience. Even when the situation seemed bleak, this side haven't wilted. Much of that has to be down to the character of the individuals involved. Andersen, an organiser at every defensive set play, has impressed with his intelligence, professionalism and winning attitude which has clearly transmitted to his team-mates. In a relegation battle, these characteristics can represent the difference between success and failure. There's simply no understating Andersen's influence.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/02/andersen-anchors-fulhams-survival-surge/

BBC Sport comments from neutrals about Newcastle relegation fight after Fulham win

Really interesting reading through these BBC Sport comments following Fulham's Saturday night win over Sheffield United.

Only seven days ago, Steve Bruce's Newcastle United had a ten point advantage over Scott Parker's Fulham.

Now that gap is only three points and Fulham have a better goal difference.

In their last 14 Premier League games, Fulham have only lost three times and only to top four clubs – Chelsea, Man Utd and Leicester. With two wins and nine draws, picking up 15 points from these 14 PL matches, only conceding 11 goals in the process.

For Newcastle United, the last 15 matches (all competitions) have brought 11 defeats and only two wins, plus two draws, conceding a massive 27 goals in the process. The last ten games seeing Bruce's NUFC team concede two or more goals on eight occasions.

The comments from neutrals on BBC Sport especially telling when it comes to how they see this relegation battle playing  out, with it increasingly looking like a straight battle between Fulham and Newcastle United for that final spot in the bottom three.

A club that neutrals are divided on, whether to sympathise with, or laugh at, this never ending nothingness of supporting Newcastle United year after year.

The BBC Sport readers comments, mainly from neutrals, tells us much about Steve Bruce and Newcastle United at the moment.

'Hopefully this marks the beginning of the end for woeful Newcastle.'

'As a Manchester United fan, I hope we thrash Newcastle to give Fulham a helping hand. Great guy as a manager.'

'Looks like it's a straight race between Fulham and Newcastle.

My money's on the toon for the drop.'

'West Brom, Sheffield Utd down, Fulham alive & kicking! Newcastle beware...'

'Last game of the season is Fulham v Newcastle!'

'Hope Fulham stay up as they are easy on the eye and TRY TO PLAY decent football as opposed to much of the rubbish at the bottom end of the table.'

'It's okay fellow Newcastle fans, the media have been telling us for months we're lucky to have Bruce. What do we expect?...'

'Fulham look like staying up.'

'Fulham will stay up if they continue to play football and be offensive.'

'Squeak, squeak, squeak...

The sound of Geordie sphincters everywhere.

I hope Fulham stay up. Fans should be back next season and it's cracking away day.'

'Newcastle are in trouble!'

'Watch out Bruce, Fulham's coming for ya.'

'Well done Fulham from a Wolves fan. You are on a roll. Hope you stay up. Always a great away day.'

'Fulham have a gem in Scott Parker. You can see the positive changes through his coaching and onto the pitch. I really think they will stay up and finish mid-table next season.'

'Newcastle won't be happy this evening.

I can see Fulham staying up and unfortunately Newcastle going down.

Fulham are getting better and only lost 1 more than Arsenal. They've only lost 4 more than Liverpool too!'

'We are after you Geordies!!! Watch out!!!'

'Most Blades have accepted for a while now that its going to be Championship football next season, injurys and poor finishing have been a constant problem. Good luck for the rest of the season Fulham, hope you can topple Newcastle.'

'I predict Fulham to stay up and Newcastle to go down. Scott Parker has a determined look and a good strong jaw. Steve Bruce has the face of a loser.'

(Villa fan) 'Would love for Fulham to get above Newcastle and send them down

'Great result Fulham. I've said it since Bruce took over that he'd only take NUFC one way. He's a fraud of a manager.'

'Well played Fulham.

With their last game being at home v Newcastle the last relegation spot could well go to the wire.

Newcastle fans should be worried.'

'Newcastle have Sheffield Utd and Fulham as their last two games.

Winning those will be enough to stay up.'

'I feel there's the making of a good side in Fulham with a good progressive manager, quite the polar opposite of Newcastle at the moment.'

'Nervous times for Newcastle.'

'I am a Newcastle fan and I am not nervous, I couldn't care less, I always said we were lucky to still be this far ahead of Fulham considering how we have played of late, but yes we will drop, we have the perfect duo Ashley and Bruce.'

'Fulham's defence is really quite strong for a team in the relegation zone, their goal difference is healthy and they're hitting form – Brighton and Newcastle will be nervous, maybe Burnley too.

I'd like to see Fulham stay up, they play some nice football. Newcastle on the other hand have a team filled with good players, but play turgid football.'

'Fulham staying up and reeling in the toon army.'



https://www.themag.co.uk/2021/02/bbc-sport-comments-from-neutrals-about-newcastle-relegation-fight-after-fulham-win-newcastle-united/

Parker full of praise for way his players coped with pressure to beat the Blades

Scott Parker hailed his team's ability to cope with the pressure of Saturday night's must-win clash with Sheffield United as they came away with only a fourth win of the campaign.

Ademola Lookman's goal on the hour was enough to get the better of the rock-bottom Blades and it brings the Whites to within three points on Newcastle, and safety after a mini run of seven points from three games.

It was a game Fulham knew they simply had to win and, though it was far from pretty, they had the character to get over the line.

"I'm very proud of the team. Proud in terms of what I asked them tonight, because pressure was on," said the Fulham boss.

"It was a result game tonight, with performance second.

"Throughout the year that pressure has been there in many different ways - the question marks over whether this team is good enough for this level and can you win games instead of drawing them.

Throughout that pressure they've managed to come out of it. It was a big one."

Parker continued: "It's been a tough week in terms of the games we've had to play - the travel we had to do and I think we all understood tonight what this game was about.

"The focus before the start was on us. Let's not listen to the noise created around this game.

We've shown that with our quality, playing with a freedom, we'll get results and I think that was proven tonight.

"There is not one question from me about what you see there in a group of players - including the ones who are not involved. This group of players is honest, want to learn, want to get better, understand the challenge of this league and what it brings sometimes.

"What you need in this moment - in top teams - is people who are constant, Monday to Friday, and get better and I think that's what you're seeing out there. This team has belief and confidence and that's what we need to continue."

Parker added: "I'm not looking at who's above us and who's around us, all I'm focusing on is us and what we need to do. When the curtain comes down at the end of the season, we'll either be good enough to stay in this division or not, but my message is let's keep fighting, let's keep improving, let's keep moving."

Parker was happy to single out midfielders Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Harrison Reed for their contributions.

He said: "They were both exceptional. Immense. Ruben we all understand his qualities and Harrison has been pivotal. Two players who are young and have not had loads and loads of football at this level, but certainly their taking to it very, very well."



https://www.capitalfootball.co.uk/single-post/parker-full-of-praise-for-way-his-players-coped-with-pressure-to-beat-the-blades