Friday Fulham Stuff (04.03.11)

[White Noise]

http://www.thisisdorset.net/sport/8889069.Fulham_striker_Dalla_Valle_to_train_with_Cherries/?ref=rss

Fulham striker Dalla Valle to train with Cherries

6:48pm Thursday 3rd March 2011


Comments(2)  By Neil Perrett »

FULHAM striker Lauri Dalla Valle has been invited to train with Cherries as boss Lee Bradbury continues his search for new recruits.

The 19-year-old is tomorrow set to link up with Bradbury's squad at Canford School and could be a possible loan target for the club.

Dalla Valle signed a three-and-a-half year deal with Liverpool in November 2007 and starred as the Reds reached the 2009 FA Youth Cup final.

The Finnish teenager, who was also a target for Chelsea, moved to Craven Cottage at the start of this season as part of the deal that took Paul Konchesky in the opposite direction.

Meanwhile, in a surprise move, Cherries midfielder Harry Arter has joined Carlisle United on a month's loan.

A summer signing from Woking, Arter has been restricted to just 15 appearances this term, nine of which came from the bench.

And with Mark Molesley on the verge of a return, Cherries boss Bradbury agreed to Arter's request to go out on loan.

[White Noise]

http://fulham.theoffside.com/team-news/match-preview-fulham-vs-blackburn-rovers.html


Match Preview: Fulham vs Blackburn Rovers


By: samg | March 3rd, 2011

Manchester City on Sunday and Blackburn Rovers this Saturday, it's a nostalgic seven days for Mark Hughes.

Hughes takes on another former club this weekend. This time, Blackburn Rovers. A team he guided to 6th and 7th in the league during his last two seasons as manager there.

Blackburn don't look like they'll be reaching similar heights this season. Three points from the relegation zone and sitting at 15th place, they need a win soon to avoid real fears of relegation.

Yet Blackburn are five points from 7th place and share the same amount of points (32) with Blackpool and Fulham. The league table is so tight that it's difficult to judge whether a team will be a relegation candidate or a contender for the Europa League.

With league positions a bit of a gray area, a comparison of form between Fulham and Blackburn can distinguish these two teams.

Fulham can go into the tie with an air of confidence. Excluding the FA cup exit to Bolton, Fulham are on fine form at home, with three wins, one draw and one loss. While Blackburn, on the road, have won once and lost four times in their last five. So, by the law of form, Fulham edge it.

But by the law of history and bogey team status, Blackburn edge it. In the previous four meetings, Blackburn have won two and Fulham have won one and drawn one. Two seasons ago, a 2-1 victory at Craven Cottage for Blackburn still lingers in recent history.

Regardless of form or history, a win for either team might simply help shape up this league table. As, usually by this stage of the season, teams would break off into their assorted groups: Top Four; Europa League spots; Mid-table; Lower-Mid; and Relegation Zone. Three points from this game, and in other fixtures this weekend, could start to determine which club will go where.

So Saturday's match will probably be a draw.

[White Noise]

The Managerial Sack Race -

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1362674/The-Firing-Line-Robs-job-scrutiny--Latics-lack-goals-cost-Martinez.html

[White Noise]

http://thewildblackburnrover.blogspot.com/2011/03/enigma-that-is-rovers-away-support.html

The enigma that is the Rovers away support


I must admit I was more than a little surprised when I heard yesterday that Rovers have sold out their away allocation for this weekend's clash with Fulham at Craven Cottage. Not surprised in a "wow that never happens" sort of a way... more a "I wasn't expecting that" fashion.


For many years the travelling Rovers away contingent has been something of a Jekell and Hyde. At times it has been an embarrassment, with recent trips to Villa Park and White Hart Lane giving birth to the dreaded "what time's your minibus?" chant.


For years there have been times where the small local population has greatly hindered the numbers we take on away trips, when at times poor turnouts and a lack of noise meaning we might as well had sat at home with a brew, pipe and slippers.


Only Wigan, Fulham and Bolton give us a run for our money in the worst Premier League away support awards - if such awards existed.


But there are times when the Rovers travelling faithful can thrive. Little times here and there where the away support can be amongst the best out there and the numbers taken to some matches can be rightly described as a force.


Trips to Wigan, Bolton and Burnley in recent times have seen the Blue and White Army out in force but to a certain extent this is to be expected such is the proximity of the opposition.


But even in less fashionable fixtures such as in the 2-1 victory over Fulham two seasons ago (Wednesday night, relegation scrap, Diouf and Roberts scored for those with short memories) the Rovers fans can be deafening in noise and that night was one example of how loud we can be.


Further evidence can be found in this season's trip to West Brom at Christmas, the end of season trip to Villa last season and the season before that's visit to Hull City. On all those occasions, the blue and white was visible and loud.


It's just a shame that we can't be like that all the time. Saturday's visit to Craven Cottage seems to be an impressive away following which makes for a nice change - let's just hope the players respond to that.

[White Noise]

Matchday Programme



Damien Duff gives his first in-depth interview since joining Fulham in this week's Official Matchday Programme as the club where he began his career visit SW6.

Blackburn Rovers are this weekend's opponents in a crucial game for both sides who share the same points tally, and thus the mutual aim of pulling away from the relegation zone.

The fixture also sees Rovers boss Steve Kean return to the Cottage, having been Assistant Manager here for a number of years, as well as Mark Hughes face-off against the team where he began his club management career.

The stage is therefore set for a thrilling Premier League encounter, and what better way to remember it in years to come than with the ultimate game day souvenir, the award winning Official Matchday Programme?

Buy a copy this weekend and you will also automatically be entered into a draw to win more than £100 worth of Jack Wolfskin goodies.

This week's essential Matchday read includes:

Damien Duff's first feature interview since joining the Club.
Manager Mark Hughes reflects on the draw achieved at Eastlands.
Danny Murphy sets targets for the remainder of the campaign in his Captain's Column.
Goalkeeper Neil Etheridge discusses his rise to stardom in the Philippines.
Hot prospect Danny Hoesen on his return from injury and First Team goals.
Expert Analysis from former Blackburn winger Jason Wilcox.
The popular Black & White Eye, rounds-up recent media coverage.
Match action from the matches against Bolton and Manchester City.
Contributions from the Fulham Faithful, interaction, and loads of fun for younger fans too.
Plus, so much more besides!

The brilliant publication will be on sale in and around the ground from two hours before kick-off and at half-time.

If you miss your copy outside then look out for sellers on the Putney and Hammersmith Terrace, or at half-time from the programme room situated inside the Johnny Haynes Stand by Block E (opposite Turnstile 24).

Buy Matchday Programmes online|


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Fanzone/FFCMatchdayProgramme.aspx#ixzz1FYwLgKbt

[White Noise]

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03032011/58/premier-league-match-facts-fulham-v-blackburn.html

Premier League - Match facts: Fulham v Blackburn

Thu, 03 Mar 12:44:00 2011





Clint Dempsey has scored four goals in his last four Premier League appearances against Blackburn.

Chris Samba has scored in the last two matches for Rovers against Fulham.

Fulham have won just one of the last nine Premier League games against Blackburn.

The Whites have kept just one shut out in their last 14 Premier League matches against Rovers.

Mark Hughes is unbeaten against his former club as a manager (two wins, two draws).

Fulham have kept four clean sheets in a row on home soil in the Premier League.

Blackburn have gone 14 Premier League away matches without keeping a clean sheet.

Rovers have lost six of their last seven Premier League away games.

Fulham have scored with just 10% of their shots this season, a lower conversion rate than any other team in the top flight.

Fulham are the only team in the top flight who have not picked up a red card this season.

Opta

[White Noise]

http://www.footballfancast.com/2011/03/football-news/premier-league-preview-fulham-v-blackburn


Premier League preview: Fulham v Blackburn


Date: 3rd March 2011 at 11:09 am 


Written by FFC News Desk




Blackburn manager Steve Kean wants at least 10 more points to ensure Rovers stay in the Premier League.

Kean believes his players can make a start on the 42-point mark at Craven Cottage against Fulham on Saturday.


Rovers have collected 32 points so far but remain just four clear of the relegation zone.


With just six points covering the entire bottom half of the division, Kean feels teams will need to do more than usual to stay afloat.


"What we have seen is bottom can beat top. For the neutral it is exciting but for teams not in the top half you look at the fixture list and think go and get your own points," he said.


"The bottom three is changing every week and I am thinking everyone beneath the top is improving week on week."


"Maybe that is the reason why you are getting the results that will take the points tally I think to 42 points. You are going to need at least 42 points."


Rovers had appeared safe just a few weeks ago but a four-match winless run has dragged them back into the relegation battle.


"It is my job to make sure I get across to the players we need to pick up the points," Kean said.


"I hope I can get across we as a staff, me as a manager, the players, we are taking full responsibility for the blip and it is a blip."


"We need to make sure we get the results and we get them quick and we get back to the feeling of that winning formula and the feel-good factor that we are moving in the right direction."


Fulham are one spot ahead of Rovers on the league table in 13th, on the same number of points.


Mark Hughes' men have won only five league games at home this season but have drawn six with a shortage of goals at Craven Cottage (17 in 14 outings) a contributing factor.


The match will have special significance for Fulham's Republic of Ireland international Damien Duff.


Duff has great affection for Rovers but his heart now rests in London.


"Of course, that's where it all began for me," Duff told the Fulham website.


"I left Ireland at 16 and I went on to have seven or eight very happy years at Ewood Park."


"There were some good times, notably the League Cup win in 2002."


"They're a good side and like ourselves, one that should probably be higher up the league table. I may still look out for their results, but these days I'm Fulham through-and-through."


Duff is hoping to add to the equalising goal he scored against Manchester City on Sunday.


"It's still all very tight at the minute, at the top and the bottom," he said.


"Both teams will be looking at three points on Saturday, but we have to have confidence that it can be us that makes the difference when it matters."

[WhiteJC]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/football_focus/9412535.stm

Lawro's prediction

Fulham v Blackburn
Blackburn were brilliant for about half-an-hour of the first half against Villa last week but they just couldn't sustain it. They made so many defensive errors in the second half it was frightening and Villa didn't have to play particularly well to beat them comfortably, which is worrying from a Rovers point of view.

Fulham, on the other hand, got a very good point at Manchester City on Sunday and looked solid. Their boss Mark Hughes has got through his own iffy spell and, although there is not much distance between them and the relegation zone, you just know they will be absolutely fine.

Prediction: 2-0

[White Noise]

http://www.blackburnrovers-mad.co.uk/news/prev/fm_preview_fulham_v_blackburn_rovers_05_mar_2011_653094/index.shtml


FM Preview: Fulham v Blackburn Rovers 05 Mar 2011


By Footymad


Updated Friday, 4th March 2011



Blackburn Rovers RSS Feed  This week FootyMad's match preview focuses on the game between Fulham and Blackburn Rovers at 15:00 on 5th March 2011 in the Premier League.

History of the Fulham v Blackburn Rovers fixture

Blackburn Rovers face a trip to Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon, hoping to improve upon an average previous return from this fixture. Of the 247 games played, Rovers have recorded 70 wins, and Fulham have come away with 113 victories.

The most recent encounter between these two sides was just last season, in November 2009, with Fulham running out comfortable 3-0 winners in a Premier League match.

Recent encounters between the teams

Season Date Team Result Team Comp
2010/2011 Sat 18 Sep Blackburn R. 1 - 1 Fulham Premier League
2009/2010 Sun 17 Jan Blackburn R. 2 - 0 Fulham Premier League
2009/2010 Wed 25 Nov Fulham 3-0 Blackburn R. Premier League
2008/2009 Wed 11 Mar Fulham 1 - 2 Blackburn R. Premier League
2008/2009 Sat 20 Sep Blackburn R. 1 - 0 Fulham Premier League
2007/2008 Sat 08 Mar Blackburn R. 1 - 1 Fulham Premier League
2007/2008 Sun 25 Nov Fulham 2 - 2 Blackburn R. Premier League

For a detailed analysis of the complete head-to-head record between the two sides, click here

Recent respective form guides

Fulham have lost just once in their last six home games, winning four and drawing the other one. These high-scoring games have yielded a total of 13 goals for the Cottagers, with 3 goals against.

In complete contrast to Fulham, Blackburn Rovers are having a torrid time on their travels, chalking up just 1 victory, with 5 defeats, from the last six. While the Rovers have hit 8 goals, 17 have hit the back of the wrong net.

Fulham see themselves just below half way in the Barclays , showing a record of 32 points from their 28 games played so far,

Blackburn Rovers find themselves struggling down in 14th position in the league having picked up 32 points from their 28 matches.

Current overall team form

Team P W D L F A P
Fulham 6 2 3 1 8 4 9
Blackburn Rovers 6 1 1 4 7 12 4

For a detailed analysis of current team form guides in this or any division, click here

FootyMad's prediction ...

FootyMad see this game edging towards a narrow win for the Cottagers, as the Rovers have been none too clever on the road in recent matches. Home win

Sequence statistics

Team Sequences
Fulham Failed to win in previous 2 home matches.
Not won in the 4 most recent games.

Blackburn Rovers Lost each of the previous 5 away matches.
Not won in previous 5 away matches.
No win in the 5 most recent games.

[White Noise]

http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/blackburnrovers/news/8889824.Junior_fit_for_Rovers/?ref=rss

Junior fit for Rovers

9:17am Friday 4th March 2011

Comments(1)  By Andy Cryer » 

JUNIOR Hoilett is fit for tomorrow's visit to Fulham after missing the defeat at Aston Villa through injury.

Rovers Canadian starlet is expected to return straight into the starting line up as they look to end a five match winless run.

Roque Santa Cruz is also expected to be fit after a back injury, having trained for the first time this week yesterday, but Phil Jones, Ryan Nelsen and David Dunn are out.

Spanish striker Ruben Rochina is expected to be included in the squad for the first time since his move from Barcelona.

Manager Steve Kean: "We know that Mark Hughes has got Fulham playing with a good pattern and they are dictating play.

"The Fulham crowd demand a certain style of play from their team and I am sure we will have an entertaining game."

[White Noise]

http://www.goal.com/en/match/49004/fulham-vs-blackburn/preview

Premier League Preview: Fulham - Blackburn Rovers


By Oliver Yew


PROBABLE LINE-UPS

Fulham: Schwarzer; Pantsil, Hangeland, Hughes, Salcido; Duff, Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey; Johnson, Dembele. 

Blackburn: Robinson; Salgado, Samba, Hanley, Olsson; Emerton, Andrews, Nzonzi, J Jones, Pedersen; Santa Cruz. 


DID YOU KNOW?

Fulham have a 35.7 per cent win ratio at Craven Cottage this season.

Clint Dempsey has scored nine league goals so far this campaign. He is one short of equalling his last season's tally.

Fulham are unbeaten in five league matches. They haven't lost at home in the league in four matches.

In 37 league matches between the two sides at Craven Cottage, Fulham have won 15 times, Blackburn have emerged victorious on 10 occasions, while they have cancelled each other out in 12 matches.

But the past decade has seen Rovers have a better record against their west London opponents, winning four and drawing three in last 11 games.

Blackburn have conceded 35 goals on the road this season. It is only two goals less than the total number they conceded away from home last season.

Steve Kean's side have lost four of their last five games. The other result was a 0-0 draw with Newcastle United.

Rovers have not won on the road in their past five matches in all competitions, conceding 16 goals in the process.

The visitors have lost ten league games away from home and have a lowly win ratio of 21.4% on their travels.

Roque Santa Cruz scored 23 league goals in 57 league appearances in his first stint at the club. But the Paraguay international is yet to score in five appearances since re-joining Blackburn in January - on loan from Manchester City.

LAST MEETING

September 18, 2010: Blackburn Rovers 1-1 Fulham

Fulham came from behind at Ewood Park thanks to a Clint Dempsey equaliser to maintain what was then an unbeaten start to their Premier League campaign.

El-Hadji Diouf appeared to block goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer in the build up to Christopher Samba's controversial opener, but the Cottagers earned their point after USA international Dempsey headed home Carlos Salcido's floated cross.

[White Noise]

Fulham v BLACKBURN: Christopher Samba returns with Ruben Rochina poised for debut


By Sportsmail Reporter


Last updated at 10:03 AM on 4th March 2011


Former Barcelona B striker Ruben Rochina is named in the Blackburn squad for the first time when they face Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Rochina's arrival in the group is a timely boost for manager Steve Kean as Roque Santa Cruz is doubtful because of a back problem.


Laid low: Samba (left) has recovered from his virus


Christopher Samba returns after a virus while Junior Hoilett is expected to recover from a hamstring strain.

But Ryan Nelsen (suspension) and David Dunn (hip injury) are both ruled out.

Team (from): Robinson, Salgado, Samba, Givet, Olsson, Andrews, J Jones, MB Diouf, Santa Cruz, Pedersen, Bunn, Hanley, Emerton, Nzonzi, Grella, Benjani, Hoilett, Roberts, Kalinic, Rochina.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1362871/Fulham-v-BLACKBURN-Christopher-Samba-returns-Ruben-Rochina-poised-debut.html#ixzz1FczyGSF5

[White Noise]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9411020.stm

Fulham    v    Blackburn

Saturday, 5 March 2011


Barclays Premier League

Fulham v  Blackburn 15:00

   

Barclays Premier League
Venue: Craven Cottage Date: Saturday, 5 March Kick-off: 1500 GMT
Coverage: Watch highlights on Match of the Day; listen on BBC Radio 5 live and local radio; text commentary on BBC Sport website and mobiles


TEAM NEWS
Fulham boss Mark Hughes has reported no fresh injury concerns.

Striker Bobby Zamora, who missed the draw at Manchester City with a minor ankle problem, will be assessed.

Blackburn centre-back Chris Samba returns after illness and will replace the banned Ryan Nelsen, but midfielder David Dunn is out with a hip problem.

Roque Santa Cruz is a slight doubt, but Junior Hoilett should return from injury and January signing Ruben Rochina is ready to make his debut.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fulham

Doubtful: Zamora (ankle)

Injured: Kamara & Senderos (both back), Sidwell (knee)

Blackburn

Suspended: Nelsen (one match)

Doubtful: Hoilett (hamstring), Santa Cruz (back)

Injured/unavailable: Dunn (hip), Formica (fitness), P Jones (knee)


MATCH PREVIEW
Fulham boss Mark Hughes made a point on his return to Manchester City last weekend, but the aborted handshake with successor Roberto Mancini shows the manner of his departure still rankles with the Welshman.

They are big boys, grown professionals... [I'll] use that apprehension and bat it straight back to the players

Blackburn boss Steve Kean
Relations with Blackburn, another of his former clubs, should be more cordial, although Hughes did criticise Rovers' surprise decision to axe manager Sam Allardyce earlier this season. The way in which Steve Kean was quickly installed at Ewood Park by the club's ruthless new owners certainly had some parallels with Hughes' sacking at Eastlands.

Kean said in December that a top-five finish was a possibility for Blackburn if they avoided injuries, but with the club's Indian backers providing little support in the transfer window, survival is now the focus for Rovers, who have lost three of their last four. Kean, who spent four years as Chris Coleman's assistant at Fulham, believes his side are 10 points shy of the 42 needed to guarantee safety.

Like Rovers, Fulham begin the weekend four points above the relegation zone, but the Londoners' recent form has seen them pull away from trouble - they have lost only once since New Year's Day.

Mark Clattenburg will take charge of the game at Craven Cottage after escaping censure for his display at Wigan last weekend, when many observers felt he should have shown Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney a red card.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

• Blackburn's 3-0 defeat at Craven Cottage last season is their only loss in their last nine games against Fulham (W4, D4).

Fulham

• Fulham have lost only one of their last eight league games, although they have drawn the last three.

• Clint Dempsey has scored four goals in his last four games against Blackburn.

• Since leaving Ewood Park, Mark Hughes has taken charge of four games against Rovers, winning two and drawing two.

• Opta stats show Fulham have converted just 10% of shots into goals this season - the lowest figure in the Premier League.

Blackburn

• Rovers have won three of 11 league games under Steve Kean (W3, D2, L6).

• They have lost their last four away games, leaking 13 goals in the process.

• Rovers have conceded 35 goals away from home this season, the highest figure in the top flight.

• They have not kept a clean sheet in an away league game since beating Aston Villa 1-0 on the final day of last season, a run of 14 matches.


LEADING GOALSCORERS

 
Fulham

Dempsey: 10 goals (9 league); Kamara: 5 goals (2 league)


 
Blackburn

Kalinic: 6 goals (5 league); Mame Diouf: 6 goals (3 league)


MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Mark Clattenburg

Assistant referees: Peter Kirkup & Martin Yerby

Fourth official: Mick Russell


LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS
Fulham (D1-1 v Man City, a): Schwarzer, Baird, Hughes, Hangeland, Salcido, Duff, Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey, Johnson (Gudjohnsen 79), Dembele. Subs not used: Stockdale, Kelly, Gera, Kakuta, Greening, Davies.

Blackburn (L1-4 v Aston Villa, a): Robinson, Salgado, Hanley, Nelsen, Olsson, Jermaine Jones, Grella (Roberts 66), Emerton, Andrews (Nzonzi 79), Pedersen, Santa Cruz (Kalinic 66). Subs not used: Bunn, Givet, Benjani, Diouf.

[White Noise]

http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/03/04/fulham-v-blackburn-preview-steve-kean-sets-ten-point-survival-t/

Fulham v Blackburn Preview: Steve Kean Sets Ten-Point Survival Target

04/3/2011 6:17 AM GMT By Ben Hunt


PREMIER LEAGUE: CRAVEN COTTAGE, SATURDAY MARCH 5, 2011. KICK-OFF: 1500 GMT

Both these sides have ambitions of finishing in the top half of the table, but for the time being they are more preoccupied with staving off the threat of relegation.

Fulham have reason to be more optimistic about their chances of not being pulled back towards the bottom three. If they are to maintain the healthy return of points they have achieved from recent results, then they should be assured of playing top-flight football next season.

For Blackburn, it is another matter. Rovers are currently without a win in their last five games and the momentum built during the early weeks of manager Steve Kean's tenure has now disappeared

Rovers's ambitious owners spoke about finishing in the top six this season, a target that always apeared ludicrously optimistic and now seems just plain ludicrous. Nevertheless, Kean will be demanding more from his players as he aims to prove to the club's owners he is capable of leading the side forward in .

Key Match-up: Danny Murphy v Keith Andrews. Much of Fulham's good play comes through Murphy, who is enjoying another good season for Fulham. The captain is able to stop opposing teams from dominating the midfield while his accurate and incisive passing helps set up the Cottagers's strikers. While Murphy is held in high regard by Fulham's supporters, it is a different story for Andrews at Blackburn. The midfielder has been barracked by some sections of the crowd at Ewood Park this season and Kean has said the player is in a "fragile" state. Not the sort of confidence you need when coming up a tough competitor like Murphy.

Form Guide: Fuham have steadied the ship with one defeat in their last six games. They also have an impressive home record with just three defeats at Craven Cottage this season. Blackburn do not travel well. They have lost ten of 14 away games this season. Fulham beat them 3-0 in the same fixture last season.

Odds: Fulham 8-11, Blackburn 4-1, Draw 13-5



FULHAM
Fulham midfielder, Damien Duff, is hoping his side can extend their run of form over Rovers, who first gave him his chance in English football.

He told Fulham's website: "Blackburn's where it all began for me. I left Ireland at 16 and I went on to have seven or eight very happy years at Ewood Park.

"There were some good times, notably the League Cup win in 2002. They're a good side and like ourselves, one that should probably be higher up the league table. I may still look out for their results, but these days I'm Fulham through-and-through."

Fulham are level on points with Blackburn but are one place above them in the table down to their better goal difference. Duff is now eager to increase their points tally and try to finish in the Europa League places.

He added: "It's still all very tight at the minute, at the top and the bottom. We're still only talking seven points separating the 13th place we currently find ourselves in and sixth-placed Liverpool.

"Both teams will be looking at three points on Saturday, but we have to have confidence that it can be us that makes the difference when it matters.

"We know how strong we can be at Craven Cottage - which has become a bit of a fortress for us in recent seasons.
"I can see no reason why we can't get the three points and push further up the table."

Strategy: Fulham's 4-4-2 system is dependent on Murphy and either Dickson Etuhu or Steve Sidwell forming a barrier across the centre of the pitch. They will stick to their defensive duties allowing Duff and Simon Davies to press forward from the flanks. Clint Dempsey also drops back into midfield to pick up loose passes to good effect.

Injury Update: Fulham are boosted by the news they have no new injuries to contend with. Philippe Senderos is the only absentee with his calf problem but he is closing in on making his debut for the club.

BLACKBURN:
The next couple of weeks will go a long way towards defining how Rovers' season will turn out, summing up the bizarre nature of the league this term.

After a winless run of five games, they are just four points above the relegation zone and while a couple of victories will soon cure that, extending that grim period would see them slip further into trouble.

No-one in the bottom half should feel safe but Blackburn have chosen the wrong time for such a dip.

They have won just once away from home since Kean took charge and if that record continues, they will place intolerable pressure on their results at Ewood Park.

Five matches remain at Ewood Park but two of those are against Manchester United and City and Kean knows they will have to start picking up points on their travels if they are to reach 40 points with something to spare.

"We know we've got to pick up points," Kean said. "We've got five away games and they're all tough games.

"We've looked at the away form and told the lads it's something that we've got to face up to otherwise it makes those five home games against City and United, puts pressure on us.

"But we've got to be positive in our play. I think you'll need 42 points to stay up this year. There are 30 points still available to us and 10 are required so we've said to the lads, 'Let's go and do it away from home' and we want to get it done as quickly as possible."

Strategy: Kean feels his team have paid the price for not being cute enough when they give the ball away and he expects his players to be far sharper in getting behind the ball after drilling them all week in training. Much will depend on whether Roque Santa Cruz is fit and the Paraguayan, who was tracked by former manager Hughes, will play a key role in making the ball stick up front. Kean wants his team to be positive at Fulham but would take a clean sheet with both hands.

Injury Update: Gael Givet will return from a groin problem but David Dunn is sidelined with a hamstring problem and defender Ryan Nelsen is suspended. Junior Hoilett is fit after hamstring trouble and Phil Jones should return from a knee injury in a fortnight.

[White Noise]

http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8889740.Rovers_can_Steady_the_ship_with_Fulham_win/?ref=rss

Rovers can Steady the ship with Fulham win

11:00am Friday 4th March 2011


Comments(2)  By Andy Cryer


FOR a man who only scored eight goals and made 33 starts in a 16-month Blackburn Rovers career, Jon Stead would appear an unlikely hero to the football neutral.

But, for the Ewood Park faithful, the striker's short spell in East Lancashire back in 2004 and 2005 ensured him a place in their hearts for ever after making an unforgettable and unexpected impact.

Many Rovers fans still insist it was Stead who saved them from relegation, with his six goals in 13 appearances in his first four months at the club helping a star-studded squad out of a precarious predicament.

He scored just two more goals for Rovers in his only full season at the club and, after a £1.8m move to Sunderland turned sour, has spent the last few seasons unable to repeat the form that will always guarantee him a place in Ewood folklore.

Now one of the game's journeymen, the 28-year-old's work rate and eye for goal sees him a fans' favourite at Championship Bristol City but, having hit the Premier League heights, Stead admits he always thinks about where his Rovers career went wrong.

He said: "I have always thought long and hard about what happened at Blackburn and why I didn't go on and build on that first season I had. It is difficult to say still.

"At the time I thought I was doing all the right things, I thought I had my feet firmly on the ground and I believed that I would go from there to make a real success of it and to do even bigger and better things.

"From there my career has tippled a bit since hitting those heights at Blackburn and I am never going to get that consistency or confidence back.

"Maybe I didn't do things right though looking back. Perhaps in my head I thought I had already made it, maybe I took my foot off the pedal and stopped doing the ins and outs that I was doing when I joined the club and the stuff I was doing to rise through the leagues.

"It is difficult for me to look back after though. All I do know is you can never take away what happened for me at Blackburn Rovers."

While Stead continues his rehabilitation from an ankle injury at Ashton Gate, his former club travel to the scene of one of his greatest moments, Fulham tomorrow, on the back of a four match winless league run.

Stead's late winner in a thrilling 4-3 win at Craven Cottage is seen by many as a turning point in that 2003/04 season, with him going on to fire priceless winners against Everton and Manchester United to send Rovers to safety, and hopes similar can happen in London tomorrow.

He said: "That Fulham game was a fantastic game, a real memorable momen.

"That back end of the season I remember as the happiest time of my career and I will do for the rest of my life I'm sure. I am never going to beat what happened for me in those few months.

"To score the goals I did with the club in the position it was, well you don't even dream of things going so well. It was an incredible part of my life and one I will be always thankful to Blackburn Rovers for.

"The Fulham game was a bit of a turning point. To win in such an exciting way reinforced the belief and lifted the confidence. We went on a good run then and from there I think we knew we were going to be okay.

"For me, it was scoring the winner against Manchester United that will always stick with me.

"Blackburn definitely need 'that moment' now. I still follow the club and have no doubt they can pick up some results again soon. A win at Fulham could be that turning point like it was for us."

Graeme Souness brought a raw 20-year-old Stead to Rovers from League One Huddersfield for £1.25m back in February 2004 to the surprise of many.

No one could have expected the part he had to play that season, including the player himself, after describing the move as a 'whirlwind'.

"I was coming back from an away game with Huddersfield and as I was getting off the coach the manager told me Rovers had had a bid accepted for me," said Stead.

"I was at the club the next day and the following weekend I was making my Premier League debut and scoring against Middlesbrough.

"Thinking back maybe being thrown into the deep end so quickly actually helped me do what I did in those first few months.

"It is a fantastic, family, friendly club. Even now people around the place ask how I am and how my family are. That just shows what a special club it is."

[White Noise]

http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league/fulham-vs-blackburn-hughes-unbeaten-against-sides-he%e2%80%99s-managed_051932.html

Fulham vs Blackburn – Hughes unbeaten against former sides



Bet on Blackburn to be relegated at 5/1 before Steve Kean's side lose to Fulham on Saturday


They may be level on points in the Barclays Premier League, but the betting suggests that there is only one outcome when Fulham and Blackburn Rovers meet on Saturday.

A loss for either side would leave them lingering dangerously close to the relegation zone but the relegation odds provide a strong insight into the form of the two clubs with Fulham 12/1 to be relegated and Blackburn 5/1 to be relegated.

Match Odds

Despite being level on points Fulham are as short as 8/11 to beat Blackburn at home after winning four and drawing one of their last five league games.

Blackburn are on a run of five straight away defeats and are 4/1 to beat Fulham, but Fulham have won just two of their last ten meetings with Blackburn and the draw may offer the better value at 5/2.

Fulham have drawn 50 per cent of their Premier League games this season and four of the last ten between the two have ended in draws.

Total Goals

A repeat of the 1-1 draw at Ewood Park earlier in the season is the favoured result at 11/2 and considering Fulham have kept just one clean sheet in 14 league matches with Blackburn suggesting they have to score twice.

But in Clint Dempsey, Fulham have a forward who has scored four goals in his last four appearances against Blackburn and the striker is 9/2 to get the first goal.

Blackburn's Chris Samba enjoys facing Fulham and has consecutive goals against the Cottagers in their last two games, and at 7/1 he is a big price to score at any time.

Fulham may be in great league form but 8/11 seems too short for the home side and backing either side to come from behind and draw at 15/2 would provide a health return.

A £25 stake on a 1-1 draw would return £162.50. New customers can sign up here for a free £25 bet.

Bet on Blackburn,Bet on Chris Samba,Bet on Clint Dempsey,Bet on Fulham

[White Noise]

Dalla Valle Loan

Friday 4th March 2011


The Club can confirm that Development Squad striker Lauri Dalla Valle has joined AFC Bournemouth on loan until the 2nd April.

Dalla Valle will team up the Cherries ahead of Saturday's home match against Oldham Athletic. AFC Bournemouth have six fixtures to be played before the youngster's loan deal expires at the start of April.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/March/LoanDeal.aspx#ixzz1FdvZFAfr

[White Noise]

http://www.football365.co.za/story/0,22162,14287_6794015,00.html




Mid-table decider at Cottage

Both sides have 32 points from 28 games with the 13th-placed Cottagers one place higher on the table with a better goal difference.

Mark Hughes' side will look to build on their creditable draw at Manchester City last Sunday, while Rover boss Steve Kean can only hope for an improved showing after his team went down 4-1 at Aston Villa.

The biggest talking point could be Mark Clattenburg, who will take charge of the fixture after escaping censure for his performance at Wigan last weekend following his criticised failure to dismiss Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.

Fulham's Bobby Zamora, who missed the draw at City with a minor ankle problem, will face a late fitness test.

Blackburn's Chris Samba returns after illness and will replace the banned Ryan Nelsen, but David Dunn is out with a hip problem. Roque Santa Cruz is doubtful, but Junior Hoilett should return from injury and new signing Ruben Rochina will make his debut.

[White Noise]

http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/03/04/fulham-v-blackburn-rovers-82029-28281050/

Fulham v Blackburn Rovers

Mar 4 2011


By Jacob Murtagh




FULHAM are boosted by the return of Bobby Zamora for tomorrow's clash at Craven Cottage.

The England striker missed last weekend's draw at Manchester City after turning his ankle in training, but will be included in the squad to face Steve Kean's side.

However, Steve Sidwell (knee) is still a few weeks away from a return, while Philippe Senderos has a hamstring problem.

[White Noise]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6794263,00.html


Cherries eye Fulham forward

Bradbury targets Finnish starlet


By Pete O'Rourke   


Last updated: 4th March 2011
   


Dalla Valle: Bournemouth target


Skysports.com understands Bournemouth are set to sign Fulham striker Lauri Dalla Valle on loan.

Cherries boss Lee Bradbury has targeted a move for the Finnish ace to help bolster his attacking options.

Dalla Valle is highly rated after joining Liverpool from local Finnish side JIPPO in 2008

However, the 19-year-old was unable to break into the Liverpool first team despite impressing at youth and reserve-team level.

Dalla Valle joined Fulham last summer along with Alex Kacaniklic as part of the deal that took Paul Konchesky Anfield.

Dalla Valle is yet to make is debut for Fulham, but he is believed to have impressed at Craven Cottage.

Cottagers boss Mark Hughes is happy to loan him out so that he can gain valuable first-team action at League One hopefuls Bournemouth.