Sunday Fulham Stuff (19/08/12)...

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Clint Dempsey vows to never play for Fulham again

United States footballer Clint Dempsey has told Fulham manager Martin Jol he is intent on leaving the club to move to a bigger club.

Dempsey scored 17 Premier League goals for Fulham last season and Liverpool have been reported as favourites to capture the twenty-nine-year-old.

But Fulham boss Martin Jol says they will only allow Dempsey to leave if they receive the right price for their prized goal scorer.

Copyright © 2012, Radio New Zealand



http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/sport/113592/clint-dempsey-vows-to-never-play-for-fulham-again?

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American Exports: Dempsey saga takes turn for surreal



According to Martin Jol, Clint Dempsey refuses to play for Fulham again. According to Dempsey himself, there might be more to the story than that.

The will-he-move-or-won't-he saga took a turn for the surreal on Friday, as Fulham's manager blasted the US international during a press conference and called the situation the club is in regarding a rumored move to Liverpool "almost embarrassing."

"Clint Dempsey wants to move," Jol said. "He doesn't want to commit to this club and, while I would like to keep him, it's impossible because he wants to move. He told me that he wants to go to a Champions League club – he said it last year, he said it in the summer, and he said it again."

Jol added that Dempsey would not figure in Fulham's 2012-13 Premier League debut on Saturday vs. Norwich City. Dempsey – the Cottagers' top scorer last season with 23 goals in all competitions – has been absent from Fulham's preseason preparations and tour, training instead with the club's youth side back in London.

The two-time World Cup veteran has yet to publicly respond to Jol's comments, but he didn't shy away from Twitter on Friday.

"There are two sides to the story," he tweeted, then followed that up with, "The truth will come out soon."

Dempsey had been linked to a move to Liverpool recently, but interest from the Reds – who didn't qualify for the Champions League this year, either – appears to have cooled.

The 29-year-old attacker is in the final year of his contract. He's been with Fulham since 2007.



http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2012/08/17/american-exports-dempsey-saga-takes-turn-surreal?

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Fulham reject 'low' bid from Manchester United for Belgian star

Manchester United have had a surprise bid for Fulham midfielder Moussa Dembele rejected by Fulham.

Cottagers boss Martin Jol confessed on Friday that there had been a derisory offer, thought to be less than £5m, from a Premier League side and TalkSport report that the bid came from Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

However Ferguson will know that it will take a much larger proposition to prise the midfielder away from West London and Jol is insistent that Dembele is keen to stay at Fulham for the upcoming season.

"There was one low bid from one Premier League club, very low. Moussa is quite happy here. He wants to play here and if something happens, we will have to wait," he said.

Dembele has impressed at Craven Cottage since arriving from AZ Alkmaar two years ago and has been the subject of intense speculation with the likes of Real Madrid and Tottenham interested in the Belgian midfielder.




http://www.cleansheetsallround.co.uk/2012/08/fulham-reject-low-bid-from-manchester-united-for-belgian-star?

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Liverpool FC refuse to be drawn into war of words with Fulham over Clint Dempsey

LIVERPOOL FC will not be drawn into a war of words with Fulham over Clint Dempsey – as they insist their move for the forward is a non-starter.

Cottagers boss Martin Jol had launched an angry attack on the Reds, accusing them of unsettling the American international.

Dempsey has been fined by Fulham after refusing to play in their Premier League opener against Norwich City today. The 29-year-old had pulled out of a Swiss training camp earlier in the summer, amid ongoing rumours of a £9m bid from Liverpool.

Brendan Rodgers, the Reds boss, had confirmed that an enquiry had been made for Dempsey, who scored 23 times for Fulham last season, but the Daily Post understands that initial interest is unlikely to be followed up, with Liverpool reluctant to meet the financial demands of both Fulham and Dempsey.

Jol had expressed his disappointment with Dempsey during a press conference, claiming that Liverpool had created an "embarrassing" situation by failing to submit a formal offer for the player.

Jol said: "He is not committed to the club. He wants to leave.

"I would like to keep him, but I think it's impossible. It's a sad and an almost embarrassing situation.

"(Liverpool's conduct) was very disappointing. There was never an offer. Clint himself told everyone he was going to Liverpool before he came back so we really thought there was quite a firm interest in him.

"Even (Rodgers) told everyone he was interested in Clint Dempsey, but our people never had an offer on the table, so it's almost embarrassing.

"If you have shown interest in a player, especially in England, you have to follow it up with an offer. They didn't."

Jol also insisted that the former New England Revolution man would not be allowed to go on the cheap, despite him having just one year left to run on his current Fulham contract.

"Maybe Liverpool will come back," he added.

"I can assure you that our chairman is strong enough. But our view is that we won't let Clint Dempsey go on the cheap, that's for sure."



http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/liverpool-fc/2012/08/18/55578-31647290/?

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Liverpool target hits back at Fulham after blast

Transfer news: Clint Dempsey is set to leave Craven Cottage

Liverpool target Clint Dempsey has reacted furiously to Fulham manager Martin Jol's blast.

The American wants to leave Craven Cottage with a move to Merseyside the most desirable outcome and his alleged wish to move led to him being withdrawn from the Whites' season-opener against Norwich.

"There are two sides to the story," Dempsey wrote on Twitter. "The truth will come out soon."



http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/liverpool_target_hits_back_at_fulham_after_blast_1_1486701?

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Darts Take Cottagers` Keeper on Loan

Blue Square Bet Premier new boys Dartford have signed goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli on a month`s loan from Barclays Premier Leaguers Fulham.

The 20-year-old's path to date has certainly not been without set-backs, having spent considerable time on the sidelines as a result of injury.

But he has shown his character time and time again, with his desire to return stronger than ever, clearly evident.

In recent seasons he has worked closely alongside the likes of Mark Schwarzer and David Stockdale, who have both commended Bettinelli for his shot-stopping ability.

Brave off his line and when taking crosses, Bettinelli`s father Vic is Fulham's Academy goalkeeping coach.



http://www.footballconference.co.uk/news/details.php?news_id=7756

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MAN UTD BOSS FERGUSON RUNS THE RULE OVER FULHAM'S DEMBELE


Under Fergie gaze: Dembele is on United's radar.

Sir Alex Ferguson has fuelled speculation Manchester United are set to launch a bid to sign Moussa Dembele after being spotted at Craven Cottage for Fulham's season opener against Norwich.

Reports this morning claimed the Scot had failed with a cheeky £5million bid for the 25-year-old with Fulham boss Martin Jol confirming the club had rejected a "very low" bid from a Premier League rival.

Whilst the Dutchman refused to reveal the identity of the club in question, reports claim United are the interested party with Ferguson admitting on Friday he could bring one more new recruit to Old Trafford this summer " if a certain player would become available".

United's midfield is an area of concern for Ferguson and with Dembele starring in a more withdrawn role for the Cottagers last season he could be the man to remedy the issues.

Dembele, signed by former Mark Hughes in a£5m deal from AZ Alkmaar in 2010, claimed last week that his agent was also in talks with Real Madrid about a possible move to the Bernabeu.

However, Jol insists that was not the case and has had stern words with Dembele's representative, Jan de Visser, regarding the issue.

Ahead of today's Premier League opener against Norwich City at Craven Cottage, Jol said: "I spoke to his agent and I said to him it's not the cleverest thing to do, to speak about players.

"There was no offer on the table (from Madrid) and hopefully the situation will stay as it is. Hopefully Dembele will stay here."

However, Ferguson's appearance at Craven Cottage alongside England boss Roy Hodgson has heightened talk of a renewed bid from United this week should the Belgian international impress.

Jol knows he could face a fight to hold onto his star man were United to return with an offer too good to turn down. "Moussa is quite happy here. He wants to play here and if something happens, we will have to wait," he said.

Aside from monitoring Dembele, Ferguson's presence in west London can also be attributed to the fact United take on Fulham in their first home game of the season next weekend.

With a number of new faces at the Cottage, Fergie will no doubt be keen to acquint himself with the new boys as he takes nothing  to chance with United's start to the new campaign.



http://www.sport360.com/article/man-utd-boss-ferguson-runs-rule-over-fulhams-dembele?

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Fulham 5 Norwich 0: Five-star Cottagers are fine without wantaway Dempsey

Fulham showed they can manage admirably without Clint Dempsey with a stunning opening-day victory.

The United States striker, fined for refusing to play in the game as he tries to force a move to Liverpool, was not missed in the slightest as Martin Jol's side turned on the style.

Although the fans chanted 'Are you watching, Clint Dempsey?'


Easy does it: Mladen Petric was in scintillating form as he took apart the Norwich defence

Jol refused to gloat and has not given up hope that the club's leading scorer last season will remain at Craven Cottage.
'It was an awkward situation,' said the Fulham manager. 'There was no bid on the table but maybe Clint knows more than us. Hopefully, he will play for us again.'
On this evidence big clubs could move in for other Fulham stars, with the watching Sir Alex Ferguson sure to have been impressed by Moussa Dembele, for whom the Manchester United manager is rumoured to have already made a bid.
The Belgium midfielder, so well balanced and clever on the ball, was outstanding in a fluent Fulham display. But so were Mahamadou Diarra, Alex Kacaniklic and Bryan Ruiz.

Then there was Mladen Petric, the 31-year-old bought from Hamburg to score goals, who netted twice on his Premier League debut. What a start for him and the team. The fans sang 'Don't leave us, Moussa' but Jol was unfazed. 'Moussa is different (to Dempsey),' he said.

'He wants to play every game, he wants to play for Fulham, and that's what I like.'


And we're off: Damien Duff opened the scoring for Fulham at Craven Cottage


Rare surge: Anthony Pilkington (right) and his fellow attacking players could not get into the game


Dropping in at the Cottage: Former Fulham boss and England manager Roy Hodgson was joined by Sir Alex Ferguson at the game

It was no surprise when Fulham went ahead after 26 minutes. Norwich keeper John Ruddy had already produced excellent saves to deny John Arne Riise and Petric, while Ruiz had volleyed over from Ruddy's misplaced clearance. Ruddy was left exposed when Marc Tierney was slow to react to Riise's crossfield pass and Damien Duff nipped in to stab the ball home.

Petric added a second, flicking in Duff's corner, which Johnny Howson, on the line, could not keep out. Fulham showed no signs of letting up after the interval as Petric drove in his second, with the aid of a deflection off Michael Turner.

Kacaniklic finished off a delightful move involving Dembele and Petric before substitute Steve Sidwell added the fifth from the spot after former Sunderland defender Turner, on a miserable debut, had brought down Hugo Rodallega and was lucky not to be sent off.

Norwich were in shock as memories were rekindled of the 7-1 opening-day defeat by Colchester three years ago, which changed their history.

This trouncing will not have the same effect but new manager Chris Hughton has to pick the players up quickly for next Saturday's home clash against QPR, who also lost heavily yesterday.

Hughton said: 'It was a surprise and I certainly didn't see it coming. The performance wasn't acceptable but we know we will lose games in this division. It's a question of how we react.'


Bossed: The likes of Mahamadou Diarra (centre) dominated in the centre of the park


Red hot: Petric bagged two goals and a brilliant assist


Up we go: Petric expertly took his side's second goal

The Cottagers put on a sublime display to tear Norwich apart and demoralise the Canaries fans who had travelled to south-west London hoping to see Chris Hughton win his first match in charge of the Norfolk club.

Petric scored twice after Damien Duff had poked home a brilliant pass from John Arne Riise to open the scoring.

Alex Kacaniklic, chosen to play in Dempsey's position, scored his first Fulham goal to make it 4-0 and substitute Steve Sidwell blasted home a penalty four minutes from the death to seal the rout.

Norwich looked a shadow of the team that finished 12th under Paul Lambert last year, and had it not been for a good performance from John Ruddy, the Canaries could well have conceded seven or eight.

A Fulham victory looked on the cards from the off. The home side started confidently, with Kacaniklic and Bryan Ruiz both swinging in dangerous crosses that just evaded Petric.

Brede Hangeland sent a raking ball over the Norwich defence to find Duff, but Michael Turner came to the Canaries' rescue by nudging the winger out wide.

Norwich raced up the other end and forced Mark Schwarzer into a save when Andrew Surman fired at goal, but that proved to be the visitors' only chance of the first half as Fulham dominated.


Jubilant: The home faithful were treated to a perfect start to the season with the 5-0 hammering



Ruddy's awful clearance landed straight at the feet of Ruiz, but the Costa Rican cleared the bar while the Canaries stopper raced back to his line.

Ruddy made amends by saving well from Riise and Petric, but the Norwich goalkeeper was beaten soon after by Duff's opener.

Riise hit a delightful cross-field pass to find the former Blackburn man and his shot trickled in off Ruddy's outstretched leg.

Fulham almost added a second when Petric found Ruiz in the box but Ryan Bennett raced across the back four to put in a crucial tackle.

The Cottagers had their second from the resulting corner, however, as Petric glanced home Duff's cross in. Jonathan Howson hooked the ball clear, but the linesman correctly ruled it had already crossed the line.

Ruddy pulled off a terrific flying save to deny Ruiz just before half-time as Fulham threatened to run riot.

Hughton brought on Steve Morison for Andrew Surman and switched to 4-4-2, but Norwich were still by far the worst team on the pitch.

Eight minutes into the second half Fulham scored their third.


Contrast: Martin Jol and Chris Hughton (right) look on during the match


Too easy: Fulham's opening game went without a hitch as they battered Norwich 5-0

Ruiz found Petric in space and the Croatian fired home a 30-yard shot that took a wicked deflection off Turner.

Thirteen minutes later it was 4-0. Petric backheeled into the path of Kacaniklic from a Mousa Dembele pass and the 21-year-old finished calmly.

The backheel proved to be Petric's last contribution to the game as he was substituted for fellow debutant Hugo Rodallega.

Bradley Johnson found space on the edge of the Fulham box and forced Schwarzer into a rare save, but the home side hit back and were not willing to settle for four.

Kacaniklic lost his marker after drifting in from the flank and fired a powerful shot that Ruddy did well to save.

Four minutes from the end Fulham were gifted another goal when Turner's awful tackle on Rodallega earned the London club a penalty and Sidwell hammered the spot-kick into the roof of the net.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2190205/Fulham-5-Norwich-0-Five-star-Cottagers-fine-wantaway-Dempsey.html#ixzz23yPx2byF

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REPORT - FULHAM 5-0 CITY

City suffer heavy opening day defeat

THE opening day of the Barclays Premier League season was one to forget for City as they fell to a heavy 5-0 defeat to Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Despite a positive opening ten minutes, Martin Jol's side soon took control as Damien Duff fired past England International John Ruddy just before the half hour mark; a goal from debutant Mladen Petric soon followed to leave City two behind going into the break.

Despite the introduction of striker Steve Morison, City continued to struggle and Fulham put the game beyond doubt on 54 minutes as Petric grabbed his second. It was soon four for the home side as the Croatian International added an assist to his tally to set up Alex Kacaniklic.

Steve Sidwell rounded off a bad day at the office for the Canaries as he fired home a fifth from the penalty spot.


On the performance boss Hughton said: "Unfortunately that is the nature of our game. When you don't put in a good enough performance particularly against a team as good as these there's every chance you're going to come unstuck but you certainly don't expect to concede five goals especially on the first game of the season.

"I thought we started ok. In the first 25 minutes we kept possession quite well and restricted a very good Fulham team to only minimal chances but for me it turned on the two goals we conceded in the first half. It gave them the lift they needed and forced us to change our approach.

"You have to remember that it's the first game of the season, we've all been there before. Whether it's at the start of the season the middle or at the end defeats are defeats and you have to be able to bounce back from them and learn from them."

City boss Chris Hughton made one change from the side that lost 2-0 to Borussia Monchengladbach in the Canaries' final pre-season match last weekend, with Andrew Surman coming into the side, and new signings Robert Snodgrass and Michael Turner both made the starting eleven.

The 4-4-1-1 formation previously assumed quickly started to look like a more fluid 4-3-3 system for the Canaries, with wingers Anthony Pilkington and Snodgrass flanking captain Holt up front.

Searching for a first win at the Cottage since 1986, the Canaries showed their intent early on as some good possession ended with a Snodgrass corner being headed away at the near post by Mahamadou Diarra. 

The home side quickly responded as only some superb defending from debutant Turner could deny Damien Duff a golden chance to score. It forced an instant response from the Canaries, Andrew Surman forcing a smart stop from Schwarzer at the near post after a deft flick on from Holt.

City were in trouble again just five minutes later as John Ruddy's clearance fell straight to the feet of Bryan Ruiz, Turner again putting the attacker under enough pressure to force a wild shot over the bar.

The pressure was building on the Canaries backline. Riise and Petric soon tested England international Ruddy as the City defence, before the pressure eventually told as Duff gave Fulham the lead just short of the half hour mark. Picking up a good long ball from Riise, Duff made no mistake this time as he slotted home past the City stopper.

With half an hour gone, City were in need of a response. With little in the way of attacking options at times, the Canaries best opportunities were coming from the set-piece. Snodgrass with a free-kick effort just wide following a foul on Holt.

But it was Fulham who had all the attacking poise to please their home faithful and soon Ruddy's goal was in danger once again; Ryan Bennett doing brilliantly to stop Ruiz in his tracks after being put clean through by Sascha Riether.

Just a minute later Fulham doubled their lead. After more persistent pressure City's Jonny Howson did all he could to stop Petric's header from a corner from going over the line. The linesman concluded that it did and City were two down.

As half-time approached City did well to keep the deficit to two as only a great save from Ruddy could deny a dipping free-kick from Fulham danger man Bryan Ruiz.

Half time - Fulham 2-0 Norwich City

In need of an immediate boost, City boss Hughton brought on Welsh international Steve Morison for the second half as he replaced Surman and the Canaries reverted to a 4-4-2 formation.

It brought a bit of a flurry for the Canaries as the substitute broke down the right flank before hitting in a teasing cross into the area, but with lack of numbers in support the Canaries failed to convert what was turning out to be a rare opportunity.

And soon City's task was made even greater as Mladen Petric's long range effort took a deflection off Turner, to leave Ruddy helpless as the ball hit the back of the net with just ten minutes of the second half gone.

Chris Hughton reacted immediately by bringing on Elliott Bennett for Scot Snodgrass on the right wing. City had 35 minutes to try and salvage something.

If the Canaries were getting any joy it was down the right hand side and soon Holt evaded his marker to guide in a low cross towards Pilkington, who under pressure from Hangeland could only divert the cross wide.

This was not a good day at the office for the Canaries. With 25 minutes to go Fulham made it four as double scorer Petric flicked on a Dembele pass, falling to former Porto man Alex Kacaniklic who made no mistake as he slotted the ball into the back of the net.

There was little left to take from this match for the Canaries, but Wes Hoolahan replaced Holt on 77 minutes in a final attempt to try and put some injection into City's attack.

The game came to a close as City failed to clear their lines leading to Turner bringing down Rodallega in the penalty area. Steve Sidwell stepped up to the spot to smash home a fifth past Ruddy.

Full time - Fulham 5-0 Norwich City

Teams

Fulham: Schwarzer, Riise, Hangeland, Petric (Rodallega 66), Ruiz (Sidwell 81), Duff (Kasami 74), Hughes, Diarra, Riether, Dembele, Kacaniklic Subs not used: Stockdale, Kelly, Baird, Halliche.

Norwich City: Ruddy, R Martin, Turner, Johnson, Snodgrass (E Bennett 55), Howson, Holt (C) (Hoolahan 77), Surman (Morison 45), Pilkington, Tierney, R Bennett. Subs not used: Rudd, Vaughan, Barnett, Lappin.



http://www.canaries.co.uk//news/article/ft-fulham-5-city-0-319480.aspx?&pageView=full#anchored

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Petric at the double as Fulham demolish Norwich

Premier League: Fulham 5-0 Norwich City

Fulham got their season off to a blistering start as they demolished Norwich City in the bright sunshine at Craven Cottage.

The absence of wantaway forward Clint Dempsey was quickly forgotten as Martin Jol's side, led in attack by the excellent Mladen Petric, put Norwich to the sword.

Fulham, who are unbeaten at Craven Cottage by the Canaries since 1986, take their place at the top of the Premier League table after this resounding victory.

The first clear chance of the game fell to Damien Duff, latching on to Brede Hangeland's ball over the top after 12 minutes. The Irishman couldn't get the ball out of his feet, however, and Norwich debutant Michael Turner recovered to clear.

Fulham were easing their way into the game, with midfielders Bryan Ruiz and Alex Kacaniklic particularly bright in the opening stages.

Costa Rica international Ruiz had a great opportunity to score after 21 minutes, chipping over after a dreadful clearance from Norwich keeper John Ruddy.

But just five minutes later, Duff atoned for his earlier miss as he got Fulham's opener.

A superb cross-field pass from John Arne Riise found Duff in the clear again and this time Ruddy could only deflect his clipped finish into the corner of the net.

Fulham continued to find openings in Norwich's exposed backline but their second goal came from a set-piece.

Duff's corner from the right was headed goalwards by Croatian striker Petric and the ball had already crossed the line when Jonathan Howson hooked it clear.

Petric, a new signing from Hamburg, scored five goals in as many games for Fulham in pre-season, and the 31-year-old's ruthless streak in front of goal continued here.

There was still time for another effort from Ruiz before half-time, as his whipped free-kick was tipped over athletically by Ruddy.

Norwich's hopes of getting back into the game were dashed in the 54th minute, when Petric grabbed his second and Fulham's third.

The Croatian was allowed acres of space by the hapless Norwich backline and his driven effort from 25 yards took a deflection of Turner as it looped into the net.

Fulham were running riot and their fourth goal was a thing of beauty.

The industrious Mousa Dembele found Petric inside the box, and his backheeled flick through a defender's legs fell to Kacaniklic, who made no mistake from eight yards out.

There was still time for one more for the rampant Cottagers, as substitute Hugo Rodallega, making his Fulham debut, was felled in the area by Turner.

Fellow substitute Steve Sidwell stepped up and dispatched the penalty high into the net to round of the scoring for the hosts.

Fulham: Schwarzer, Riether, Hughes, Hangeland, Riise, Diarra, Ruiz (Sidwell), Kacaniklic, Dembele, Duff (Kasami), Petric (Rodallega). Subs not used: Stockdale, Kelly, Baird, Halliche.

Norwich: Ruddy, Martin, Bennett, Turner, Tierney, Surman, Howson, Johnson, Pilkington, Snodgrass, Holt. Subs: Rudd, Morrison, Vaughaun, Hoolahan, E Bennet, Lappin, Barnett.



http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/petric_at_the_double_as_fulham_demolish_norwich_1_1486854?

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Match report: Fulham 5-0 Norwich City


Mladen Petric (left) enjoyed a dream debut at the Cottage. Photo: PA


Fulham 5-0 Norwich

Fulham debutant Mladen Petric scored twice and set up one more as Martin Jol's side hammered Norwich to prove they can easily cope without Clint Dempsey.

Some have predicted Fulham will struggle this season after they lost Andrew Johnson to QPR and look set to lose Dempsey as he tries to force through a move to Liverpool.

If today's display is anything to go by, Fulham will not miss their 23-goal talisman from last season one bit.

The Cottagers put on a sublime display to tear Norwich apart and demoralise the Canaries fans who had travelled to south-west London hoping to see Chris Hughton win his first match in charge of the Norfolk club.

Petric, signed on a free transfer from Hamburg this summer, was the star of the show, scoring twice after Damien Duff had poked home a brilliant pass from John Arne Riise to open the scoring.

Alex Kacaniklic, chosen to play in Dempsey's position, scored his first Fulham goal to make it 4-0 and substitute Steve Sidwell blasted home a penalty four minutes from the death to seal the rout.

Norwich looked a shadow of the team that finished 12th under Paul Lambert last year, and had it not been for a good performance from John Ruddy, the Canaries could well have conceded seven or eight.

A Fulham victory looked on the cards from the off. The home side started confidently, with Kacaniklic and Bryan Ruiz both swinging in dangerous crosses that just evaded Petric.

Brede Hangeland sent a raking ball over the Norwich defence to find Duff, but Michael Turner came to the Canaries' rescue by nudging the winger out wide.

Norwich raced up the other end and forced Mark Schwarzer into a save when Andrew Surman fired at goal, but that proved to be the visitors' only chance of the first half as Fulham dominated.

Ruddy's awful clearance landed straight at the feet of Ruiz, but the Costa Rican cleared the bar while the Canaries stopper raced back to his line.

Ruddy made amends by saving well from Riise and Petric, but the Norwich goalkeeper was beaten soon after by Duff's opener.

Riise hit a delightful cross-field pass to find the former Blackburn man and his shot trickled in off Ruddy's outstretched leg.

Fulham almost added a second when Petric found Ruiz in the box but Ryan Bennett raced across the back four to put in a crucial tackle.

The Cottagers had their second from the resulting corner, however, as Petric glanced home Duff's cross in. Jonathan Howson hooked the ball clear, but the linesman correctly ruled it had already crossed the line.

Ruddy pulled off a terrific flying save to deny Ruiz just before half-time as Fulham threatened to run riot.

Hughton brought on Steve Morison for Andrew Surman and switched to 4-4-2, but Norwich were still by far the worst team on the pitch.

Eight minutes into the second half Fulham scored their third.

Ruiz found Petric in space and the Croatian fired home a 30-yard shot that took a wicked deflection off Turner.

Thirteen minutes later it was 4-0. Petric backheeled into the path of Kacaniklic from a Mousa Dembele pass and the 21-year-old finished calmly.

The backheel proved to be Petric's last contribution to the game as he was substituted for fellow debutant Hugo Rodallega.

Bradley Johnson found space on the edge of the Fulham box and forced Schwarzer into a rare save, but the home side hit back and were not willing to settle for four.

Kacaniklic lost his marker after drifting in from the flank and fired a powerful shot that Ruddy did well to save.

Four minutes from the end Fulham were gifted another goal when Turner's awful tackle on Rodallega earned the London club a penalty and Sidwell hammered the spot-kick into the roof of the net.

"Are you watching Clint Dempsey?" echoed around Craven Cottage in the closing stages, the home fans clearly delighted that they had opened their season with an emphatic victory without their leading talisman.



http://www.itv.com/sport/football/article/2012-08-18/match-report-fulham-5-0-norwich-city/?

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Two for Petric in Fulham romp



Fulham 5 Norwich City 0

Mladen Petric scored twice on his debut as Fulham stormed to a superb opening-day victory.

The Croatian international headed home a corner on the stroke of half-time before firing in another from 20 yards out just after the break.

Damien Duff had earlier put Fulham ahead when he latched on to John Arne Riise's through-ball and beat John Ruddy.

Promising young winger Alex Kacaniklic scored his first Fulham goal after the hour-mark before substitute Steve Sidwell converted a penalty on his return from injury.

As well as Petric, Martin Jol also handed a debut to German defender Sascha Riethe, with Hugo Rodallega starting from the bench.

Bryan Ruiz joined Petric up front in place of Clint Dempsey, who was left out of the squad by Jol after making known his desire to leave Craven Cottage this summer.

Fulham were comfortably two-up at the break thanks to Riise's vision to pick out Duff and the assistant referee spotting that Petric's header had indeed crossed the line before it was cleared.

Petric, who signed from Hamburg this summer, found the corner from distance to add a third before setting up Kacaniklic to slot home and was eventually replaced by Rodallega.

Sidwell was a late substitute for Ruiz and stepped up to fire a spot-kick high into the net after Rodallega had been tripped in the box.



http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/two-for-petric-in-fulham-romp?

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Five-star Fulham maul Canaries
Rampant Cottagers run riot on opening day of the season


Damien Duff pokes in the opening goal on 26 minutes

Fulham opened their Premier League season with an emphatic 5-0 win over Norwich at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

Man of the match: Debutant Mladen Petric is off to a flier with his new club, scoring twice and assisting another on a fine introduction to the Premier League.
Goal of the match: Alex Kacaniklic finished off the move of the day, but it was all about the build-up as Dembele picked out Petric, who backheeled the Swede through on goal.
Save of the match: Despite the scoreline, John Ruddy saved Norwich from further embarrassment, with the pick of his saves coming from Petric's early effort at the near post.
Talking points: Can Norwich adapt to the changes since Lambert's departure? Will Clint Dempsey perform a U-turn on the back of this performance?

The Cottagers controlled the game from the off, with Damien Duff providing the breakthrough on 26 minutes after being picked out by John-Arne Riise.

Four minutes before half-time, debutant Mladen Petric glanced in the first of his two goals, with the second coming less than ten minutes into the second half.

Alex Kacaniklic provided Fulham's fourth in a well-worked goal involving the impressive Petric, before a late Steve Sidwell penalty completed the rout.

The Cottagers put on a sublime display to tear Norwich apart and demoralise the Canaries fans who had travelled to London hoping to see Chris Hughton win his first match in charge of the Norfolk club.

Norwich looked a shadow of the team that finished 12th under Paul Lambert last year, and had it not been for a good performance from John Ruddy, the Canaries could well have conceded seven or eight.

Confident start

A Fulham victory looked on the cards from the off. The home side started confidently, with Kacaniklic and Bryan Ruiz both swinging in dangerous crosses that just evaded Petric.

Brede Hangeland sent a raking ball over the Norwich defence to find Duff, but Michael Turner came to the Canaries' rescue by nudging the winger out wide.

Norwich raced up the other end and forced Mark Schwarzer into a save when Andrew Surman fired at goal, but that proved to be the visitors' only chance of the first half as Fulham dominated.

Ruddy's awful clearance landed straight at the feet of Ruiz, but the Costa Rican cleared the bar while the Canaries keeper raced back to his line.

Ruddy made amends by saving well from Riise and Petric, but the Norwich goalkeeper was beaten soon after by Duff's opener.

Riise hit a delightful cross-field pass to find the former Blackburn man and his shot trickled in off Ruddy's outstretched leg.

Fulham almost added a second when Petric found Ruiz in the box but Ryan Bennett raced across the back four to put in a crucial tackle.

The Cottagers had their second from the resulting corner, however, as Petric glanced home Duff's cross in. Jonathan Howson hooked the ball clear, but the linesman correctly ruled it had already crossed the line.

Ruddy pulled off a terrific flying save to deny Ruiz just before half-time as Fulham threatened to run riot.

Hughton brought on Steve Morison for Andrew Surman and switched to 4-4-2, but Norwich were still by far the worst team on the pitch.

Wicked deflection

Eight minutes into the second half Fulham scored their third.

Ruiz found Petric in space and the Croatian fired home a 30-yard shot that took a wicked deflection off Turner.

Thirteen minutes later it was 4-0. Petric backheeled into the path of Kacaniklic from a Moussa Dembele pass and the 21-year-old finished calmly.

The backheel proved to be Petric's last contribution to the game as he was substituted for fellow debutant Hugo Rodallega.

Bradley Johnson found space on the edge of the Fulham box and forced Schwarzer into a rare save, but the home side hit back and were not willing to settle for four.

Kacaniklic lost his marker after drifting in from the flank and fired a powerful shot that Ruddy did well to save.

Four minutes from the end Fulham were gifted another goal when Turner's awful tackle on Rodallega earned the London club a penalty and Sidwell hammered the spot-kick into the roof of the net.

"Are you watching Clint Dempsey?" echoed around Craven Cottage in the closing stages, the home fans clearly delighted that they had opened their season with an emphatic victory without their leading talisman.

Fulham   Team Statistics   Norwich City
5   Goals   0
2   1st Half Goals   0
9   Shots on Target   2
2   Shots off Target   4
4   Blocked Shots   3
6   Corners   3
12   Fouls   11
2   Offsides   1
0   Yellow Cards   0
0   Red Cards   0
90.1   Passing Success   82.6
11   Tackles   16
81.8   Tackles Success   68.8
59.9   Possession   40.1
46.6   Territorial Advantage   53.4
568   Total Passes   374
22   Total Crosses   22
121   Lost Balls   110
55   Recoveries   21
57.1   1st Half Poss.   42.9
62.8   2nd Half Poss.   37.2



http://www1.skysports.com/football/live/match/261563/report

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 5 Norwich City 0: match report
Read a full match report of the Premier League game between Fulham and Norwich City at Craven Cottage on Saturday Aug 18 2012.


Nice one sun: Fulham's Alex Kacaniklic celebrates his goal with Mladen Petric at sun-drenched Craven Cottage
Photo: GETTY IMAGES

Who needs Clint Dempsey? Not Fulham, on this evidence at least.

With the American on strike as his ill-advised attempt to force a move away from Craven Cottage continues, Martin Jol's men simply got on with the job and cruised past Norwich City.

Fulham cannot afford to allow a man who scored 23 goals last season to sit idle, but there was a firm message here that they can thrive even without their Player of the Year.

They had far too much class for Chris Hughton's Norwich and were utterly rampant. Goals from Damien Duff, scoring in his 13th different Premier League season, and two from debutant Mladen Petric ensured the game was over well before the hour mark. Alex Kacaniklic added a fourth and Steve Sidwell a late fifth as Norwich were ruthlessly put to the sword.

Norwich barely threatened, but still all the talk afterwards was about Dempsey. Jol claimed that it was a joint decision not to play the 29 year-old in case he got injured and scuppered a potential move – and said he could even play for the club again.

"If you take it literally it is a bit harsh to say he refused to play," said Jol. "If you want to move you don't want to take risks in case you get an injury. It was an awkward situation for us.

"Someone told him Liverpool wanted him and his head was turned, but for us there was nothing on the table.

"We feel he should stay if there is no other bid. Hopefully he will play for us again. He was a terrific player for us, the most productive in the whole league."

And the game? "That was exactly what I had in mind. We know what we are capable of."

Yet for Hughton there was only disappointment after his first match since succeeding Paul Lambert.

"It was an awful day for us," he said. "Four goals were avoidable. We know it can happen, we know we are playing in a tough league and what is important for me is to see what reaction we get from the team."

Fulham were superb, and one of the principal reasons Jol can look forward was the display of Brian Ruiz.

The Costa Rican could benefit from being the centre of attention if Dempsey does leave and he was in fine form here, creating chances for John Arne Riise and Petric that were both well saved by John Ruddy.

Yet the goalkeeper could do nothing when Fulham hit the front after 26 minutes. Riise was the architect on this occasion, hitting a delicious long pass that took out the entire Norwich defence. Duff had not scored since netting the winner against the same opponents back in March but he took his chance well, bringing the ball down before flicking it past Ruddy and into the far corner.

Norwich had no answer to the midfield craft of Ruiz, Mousa Dembele and Mahamadou Diarra, and it was two shortly before half-time as Petric's header from Duff's corner crossed the line before Jonny Howson could hook it away.

Fulham killed the game with their third as Petric let fly from distance, although a big deflection off Michael Turner certainly helped, and it was four when Kacaniklic slotted home his first for the club after some superb approach play.
Sidwell lashed home a penalty after Michael Turner brought down Hugo Rodallega, and as the fans chanted at the end: 'Are you watching Clint Dempsey?'

NEW SIGNINGS
Mladen Petric could hardly have done any more to endear himself to the Fulham faithful. Two goals and an impressive all-round display will have pleased Martin Jol, while Sascha Riether was solid at right back. An horrendous day for Norwich's Robert Snodgrass and Michael Turner though.



http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/9477956/Fulham-5-Norwich-City-0-match-report.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham's Mladen Petric kicks off with double against poor Norwich City


Damien Duff of Fulham, second right, celebrates opening the scoring against
Norwich City at Craven Cottage. Photograph: Jan Kruger/Getty Images

Fulham started their campaign with this thrashing of Norwich City but Martin Jol still found grounds for complaint, criticising those of his own side's fans who mocked the absent Clint Dempsey.

The USA attacker, who scored 23 goals last term, did not feature in the game after he refused to play in the hope that it would accelerate a transfer to Liverpool. Fulham coped admirably without him as they ruined Chris Hughton's first game in charge of Norwich courtesy of goals from Damien Duff, Steve Sidwell, Alex Kacaniklic and a double from the debutant Mladen Petric. The home fans greeted Fulham's fifth strike – a fierce penalty from Sidwell – by chanting "Are you watching Clint Dempsey?" clearly delighted they had proven they can easily do without the American's services.

But Jol feels the 29-year-old deserves more respect from the fans despite his rebellion. "I don't want to hear the fans were chanting against him because he was a terrific player for us," Jol said. "He was the most productive midfield player in the whole league last season."

Jol is angry that Liverpool failed to follow up their interest in Dempsey with a firm bid. The manager had said it was "impossible" for Dempsey to remain at Craven Cottage but he now seems open to the possibility of the midfielder staying. "Hopefully he will play for us again," Jol said. "There is one season to go [on his contract] and no one has come in for him.

"To say he refused to play is probably a bit harsh but he wanted to move and if you want to move, you don't want to take risks so you don't want to play in case you get an injury. So for me that was a very awkward situation and it was for him as well. There is nothing on the table from Liverpool. Maybe Clint knows more than us but we feel he should stay if there is no other bid."

Hughton was hoping to score a victory against his former mentor but his Norwich side looked a shadow of the team who finished 12th under Paul Lambert last season. Fulham, on the other hand, played out of their skin.

Duff controlled an excellent pass from John Arne Riise to put the home side ahead after 25 minutes before Petric added two more goals either side of half-time. The Croat then played a superb backheel to Kacaniklic for Fulham's fourth and Sidwell blasted home a spot-kick in the dying minutes after Michael Turner's awful foul on Hugo Rodallega in the Norwich box.

Kacaniklic, starting only his third league game, received praise from Jol for slotting in to the team in Dempsey's place.

"I thought we did well on the left. It was not easy to follow in the footsteps of Clint Dempsey but luckily enough [Kacaniklic] did well," Jol said. "We did well. We let the ball do the work and we were very good to watch."

Hughton, who worked under Jol as a coach at Tottenham, admitted his first top-flight game in 20 months could not have gone worse. "It was an awful day for us," he said. "That's not how you want your first game of the season to go. Four of the goals were avoidable. In pre-season we have looked very solid in defence. I had no inkling this would happen.

"The players are hurting. They know this wasn't acceptable and they want to make amends."



http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/aug/18/fulham-norwich-city-premier-league?

[WhiteJC]

 
Brace for Petric as Fulham run riot

Fulham 5 Norwich 0


Fulham debutant Mladen Petric scored twice and set up one more as Martin Jol's side hammered Norwich to show that they can cope without Clint Dempsey.

Some have predicted Fulham will struggle this season after they lost Andrew Johnson to QPR and look set to lose Dempsey as he tries to force through a move to Liverpool.

If today's display is anything to go by, Fulham will not miss their 23-goal talisman from last season.

The Cottagers put on a sublime display to tear Norwich apart and demoralise the Canaries fans who had travelled to south-west London hoping to see Chris Hughton win his first match in charge of the Norfolk club.

Petric, signed on a free transfer from Hamburg this summer, was the star of the show, scoring twice after Damien Duff had poked home a brilliant pass from John Arne Riise to open the scoring.

Alex Kacaniklic, chosen to play in Dempsey's position, scored his first Fulham goal to make it 4-0 and substitute Steve Sidwell blasted home a penalty four minutes from the death to seal the rout.

Norwich looked a shadow of the team that finished 12th under Paul Lambert last year, and had it not been for a good performance from John Ruddy, the Canaries could well have conceded seven or eight.

A Fulham victory looked on the cards from the off. The home side started confidently, with Kacaniklic and Bryan Ruiz both swinging in dangerous crosses that just evaded Petric.

Brede Hangeland sent a raking ball over the Norwich defence to find Duff, but Michael Turner came to the Canaries' rescue by nudging the winger out wide.

Norwich raced up the other end and forced Mark Schwarzer into a save when Andrew Surman fired at goal, but that proved to be the visitors' only chance of the first half as Fulham dominated.

Ruddy's awful clearance landed straight at the feet of Ruiz, but the Costa Rican cleared the bar while the Canaries stopper raced back to his line.

Ruddy made amends by saving well from Riise and Petric, but the Norwich goalkeeper was beaten soon after by Duff's opener.

Riise hit a delightful cross-field pass to find the former Blackburn man and his shot trickled in off Ruddy's outstretched leg.

Fulham almost added a second when Petric found Ruiz in the box but Ryan Bennett raced across the back four to put in a crucial tackle.

The Cottagers had their second from the resulting corner, however, as Petric glanced home Duff's cross in. Jonathan Howson hooked the ball clear, but the linesman correctly ruled it had already crossed the line.

Ruddy pulled off a terrific flying save to deny Ruiz just before half-time as Fulham threatened to run riot.

Hughton brought on Steve Morison for Andrew Surman and switched to 4-4-2, but Norwich were still by far the worst team on the pitch.

Eight minutes into the second half Fulham scored their third.

Ruiz found Petric in space and the Croatian fired home a 30-yard shot that took a wicked deflection off Turner.

Thirteen minutes later it was 4-0. Petric backheeled into the path of Kacaniklic from a Mousa Dembele pass and the 21-year-old finished calmly.

The backheel proved to be Petric's last contribution to the game as he was substituted for fellow debutant Hugo Rodallega.

Bradley Johnson found space on the edge of the Fulham box and forced Schwarzer into a rare save, but the home side hit back and were not willing to settle for four.

Kacaniklic lost his marker after drifting in from the flank and fired a powerful shot that Ruddy did well to save.

Four minutes from the end Fulham were gifted another goal when Turner's awful tackle on Rodallega earned the London club a penalty and Sidwell hammered the spot-kick into the roof of the net.

"Are you watching Clint Dempsey?" echoed around Craven Cottage in the closing stages, the home fans clearly delighted that they had opened their season with an emphatic victory without their leading talisman.




http://www.breakingnews.ie/sport/brace-for-petric-as-fulham-run-riot-563506.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Is the Grass Greener?
   
Much has been said about Clint Dempsey`s apparent refusal to play today.

For me, it felt like a kick in the teeth for all those loyal Fulham supporters who have cheered him every time he`s pulled on his shirt whilst also contributing towards a weekly salary many of us can only dream of.

I`m also of the opinion that Clint should honour the contract he was, no doubt, happy to sign not too long ago.

However, if he has got his heart set on a move to Liverpool, he might like to reconsider if the grass is greener up at Anfield after our thrilling performance today and Liverpool`s embarrassing performance against West Bromwich Albion where they were turned over 3-0.

The grass is not always greener on the other side Clint!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=290482#ixzz23yc3zXFV

[WhiteJC]

 
Liverpool Football: Much Better Options Than Clint Dempsey

Following the not-so breaking news that Clint Dempsey wants to leave Fulham, Liverpool have understandably been crowned his new suitors despite no firm contract offer ever being handed to him.

Dempsey is a top player and I'm sure he would offer some much needed midfield goals to the team.

But the issue for me is that I believe he is just another Charlie Adam; two very different players but both shone at smaller teams and I think both will fail to reach similar heights at Liverpool.

Dirk Kuyt and his industrious style of play will be missed now that he has moved on but I don't believe that Dempsey is a great replacement just because he can also play in numerous positions.

Even if Dempsey isn't seen as a replacement, I still think a should-be perennial contender like Liverpool could attract a better calibre of player.

If you want a player who can play off the striker, either wing or even up front, I can think of a few better options from around the footballing landscape.

With a goal every 3.7 games for Fulham, Dempsey does provide a spark but there are better, younger players with similar versatility and far more long-term potential.

I just don't see Dempsey getting any better.

A fee of £10 million for his services is a fair one but spending an extra 5 million on top of that for someone quite a bit younger presents better value in my eyes.

One such player is Dries Mertens of PSV Eindhoven.

Capable of playing all of the same roles as Dempsey, the 25-year-old is four years Dempsey's junior and also a better overall player.


I understand that some may view Dempsey as a striker but I will never consider him an out and out forward.

Mertens moved to PSV only a year ago but he has already receive interest from huge clubs like Bayern Munich.

The Belgian international has also been linked to Inter Milan and due to the demand, PSV would be looking for around £12 million.

A fair price when you consider he signed a five-year deal only a year ago.

He scored 25 goals in 43 games last season.

A second player who could be a nice alternative to Dempsey is Younes Belhanda of Montpellier.

The 22-year-old Morrocan is also a very versatile player who was a vital contributor to the Ligue 1 winning side last season.

Belhanda was given the 'free' role last season and being allowed to play as a secondary striker really allowed his creative instincts to flourish.

He was named the best young player of Ligue 1 and his stellar form led to interest from Arsene Wenger and Arsenal.

Belhanda has already said he is open to a move away from France and Liverpool would be making a smart move if they were the ones to snatch him up.

Valued at £10 million, PSG are being linked with a £20 million bid for the playmaker by  www.metro.co.uk, which definitely is crazy money.


But, to be fair, PSG have been linked to any decent players and so unless something is in the pipeline, a cheeky bid in the region of £10-12 million would be smart.

The third and final alternative I can think of is Gaston Ramirez.

Ramirez has already been linked with Liverpool but a fee of around £12 million had been reportedly agreed between his club Bologna and Southampton.

Contrary to most reports, www.football-italia.net reports that Bologna club president Albano Guaraldi is not yet happy with the deal Southampton are offering; despite Ramirez himself saying it was almost finalised.

It seems nothing has been accepted on Bologna's end

Either way, Bologna's annoyance at Ramirez's agent and the offer on the table allows Liverpool a second bite at the cherry and they should definitely be looking into another approach if or when this deal collapses.

Ramirez too can play pretty much anywhere in midfield and in attack and would also present good value due to the fact he is only 21 years old.

Bologna want £15.8 million which is a lot of money, but better value than spending 10 million on Dempsey.

I still think Liverpool will end up signing Dempsey but he isn't an impact player that will catapult Liverpool into the Champions League or even towards the top four; but I believe my alternatives would have a bigger say in doing so.



http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1302476-liverpool-football-much-better-options-than-clint-dempsey?

[WhiteJC]

 
Norwich City boss Chris Hughton warns the Canaries to cut out the defensive charity after Fulham loss

Chris Hughton has warned his Norwich City players to cut out the basic defensive errors or risk a long Premier League struggle this campaign after a 5-0 opening day hammering at Fulham.

City's wretched recent run at Craven Cottage continued with Hughton's first competitive match in charge turning into a torturous afternoon in the sweltering temperatures by the Thames. Hughton will leave the post-mortems until Monday morning after reviewing a video nasty of his side's defensive charity over the weekend.

Damien Duff got the ball rolling for Martin Jol's men with a cool finish after the City back four had been caught sleeping and they doubled their lead thanks to a Mladen Petric header before half-time.

The Croatian made it 3-0 early in the second period when his long range effort took a wicked deflection off Michael Turner to leave John Ruddy helpless. But the goal of the afternoon came when a flowing move involving Petric and Moussa Dembele ended with Alex Kacaniklic sliding past Ruddy.

Norwich's misery was complete in the 85th minute when Michael Turner brought down Hugo Rodallega and substitute Steve Sidwell hammered home the penalty.

"It was an awful day for us. It was tough watching," he said. "The first game of the season you want to get off to a good start. We knew it was going to be difficult because these are a good side. These days they don't lose many games here but for there were pivotal moments in the game. I thought for the first 25 minutes, our team shape was quite good even though we weren't quite as big a threat as I would have liked. We looked solid and resillient in our shape. Goals change games and we conceded two poor goals in that first half period. Four of the goals were for me really avoidable and that is the most disappointing aspect. It is an area we had looked very solid in pre-season. We went with five in midfield. We know it can happen. We know we are playing a really tough league and for me what is more important now is the type of reaction we get."



http://www.pinkun.com/norwich-city/norwich_city_boss_chris_hughton_warns_the_canaries_to_cut_out_the_defensive_charity_after_fulham_loss_1_1486905?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 5-0 Norwich City



Mankind's advances are wonderous indeed, but we don't know everything yet. How, for example, to explain a day where Fulham beat Norwich 5-0, comedy rivals QPR lose 5-0, at home, after a huge spending spree, and Liverpool, the glamourous (if overly made-up) secretary in the Clint Dempsey Love Triangle, get humped to the tune of 3-0 at West Bromwich Albion, the team that Roy Hodgson made. Fantastic, eh?

Today's slaughter was of the highest order. Norwich were absolutely obliterated, Fulham's players on a thoroughly different level and largely in cruise control throughout.  Everywhere you looked somebody was dominating their area of the pitch, Mahmadou Diarra being the sun around which all these stars flew. No wonder Jol felt able to let Danny Murphy go! Diarra really does do it all, and with Dembele you have a superstar engine-room that few teams will be able to match.  They were awe-inspiring.

John-arne Riise set us off by pinging a giant throughball over the top to Damian Duff, who scored well. we'd deserved that, having given Norwich the run-around, Ruiz wizarding about promisingly, Kacaniklic and Riise combining well and aggressively down the left.

We got another from a corner. Mladen Petric nearly scored with a smart control/volley combo, but got what he deserved here. Replays will be needed to establish exactly what occurred, but it seemed to involve a big Hangeland header and a scramble.

Then a third, Petric walloping home from distance via a deflection, and a fourth, Petric feeding Kacaniklic for his first Fulham league goal, again a neat finish, but fabulous creation.

Hugo Rodellega, on as a sparky sub, was tripped for a penalty, which Steve Sidwell ramrodded home into the top corner with some belief. A 5-0 scoreline by no means flattered the men in white (and black!) and at this point six might have been very achievable but everyone looked a little tired from their exertions in what had been presumably the hottest day of the year so far, or ever perhaps.

You don't get games like this all that often, so we must savour the memories while they're still fresh. The performance was thrillingly good, enough to make me spontaneously cheer a propos of nothing at one point. I was just really happy at what I was seeing. Fulham were amazing.



http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2012/08/18/fulham-5-0-norwich-city/?