Saturday Fulham Stuff - 30/11/19...

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Swansea	1-2	Fulham

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Swansea City 1-2 Fulham

Aleksandar Mitrovic scored 12 goals in 20 games for Fulham during an initial loan spell from Newcastle United

Fulham moved to within two points of the automatic promotion places as Aleksandar Mitrovic's double gave them victory at Swansea City.

Scott Parker's team claimed a fourth successive Championship win but they were made to work for it by a spirited Swansea side.

Mitrovic, the Championship's leading scorer, took his club tally this season to 15 goals thanks to two first-half strikes.

The powerful Serb headed his team in front on 22 minutes and then doubled their advantage with a cool finish shortly before half-time.

Swansea were unfortunate to be two goals down having been the better side for long periods, and they deservedly got back into the game through George Byers' 65th-minute header.

But Fulham, who are third in the table, held on to close the gap on second-placed Leeds, while Swansea remain sixth.

The Swans are the only side in all three divisions of the EFL who are yet to lose an away league game this season - but they have found points hard to come by on their own patch in recent times.

Having not lost a home league game between December 2018 and September 2019, they have now won just one of their past seven second-tier outings in south Wales.

Yet Fulham were under pressure in the early stages as Swansea began with purpose.

A flowing Swansea move ended with Andre Ayew crossing for Sam Surridge, but his effort was saved at point-blank range by Marek Rodak.

Fulham's goalkeeper was in action again seconds later, pushing away Kyle Naughton's curling shot, before Rodak's sliced clearance almost led to a spectacular Swansea opener.

Matt Grimes did well to volley the ball into Byers' path and his long-range drive hit the outside of the post.

Kristoffer Peterson then fizzed a shot over, but it was Fulham who found a path to goal in their first notable attack.

When Aboubakar Kamara volleyed Joe Bryan's inviting cross on to the crossbar, the rebound fell perfectly for Mitrovic to head home.

Swansea tried to respond, with Byers forcing another smart save from Rodak before Ayew's overhead kick flew straight into the Slovakian's arms.

Having soaked up the pressure, Fulham showed their clinical streak once more to make it 2-0.

Peterson was at fault, the Swansea winger gifting possession to Josh Onomah deep in his own half.

He fed Ivan Cavaleiro, whose return pass was missed by Onomah but rolled into the path of Mitrovic.

The former Newcastle frontman gobbled up his second opportunity of the night, lifting a shot beyond Freddie Woodman and into the roof of the net.

Fulham were first to threaten in the second period as Cavaleiro's shot was well saved, then Rodak leapt to his left to repel another effort from the lively Byers.

The Swansea midfielder eventually got his reward for an all-action display from substitute Barrie McKay's cross, with Rodak finally beaten as he palmed Byers' header into the net.

Buoyed by the goal, Swansea pushed for an equaliser with Byers threatening once again, but Fulham stood firm to maintain their impressive form.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/50512237

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Head Coach press conference

Scott Parker was delighted with an impressive team performance which saw Fulham come away from South Wales with a fourth straight win.

After a turbulent opening ten minutes, Parker was most pleased by the resilience shown by his team to overcome the worry and really assert themselves on Swansea.

Parker said: "I felt they started the game strongly and we had the 'keeper to thank for the first ten minutes when he pulled off a couple of really good saves and they put us under pressure.

"From that early scare I felt as though we dominated the game, we controlled the game and got the ball in the right areas and got our noses in front.

"I thought we were deserving of that 2-0 lead at half-time and then the second-half comes and I thought we were the only side that looked like they were going to score.

"We missed a couple of really big, big chances and then the goal comes from nothing for Swansea and at that moment we decided we needed to see the game out.

"We could've turned the game into a bit of a basketball match and tried to hit them on the counter but instead we decided to see this game out which we did, and did very well which pleases me a lot really."

Aleksandar Mitrović bagged two goals to let the division know he is the prime finisher in the league and Parker feels very lucky to have the Serbian international in his squad.

He said: "He's just motivated by goals really, he's a typical striker who just wants to score goals.

"He's been first class, you've seen that tonight, we got the ball up there and with the way we play, we get the ball in the right areas at times and he's there to finish.

"His general play is first class, we can mix our game up, go up to him and he can give us a platform because of his physical presence, we can also play it into his feet and build around him as well, so for us it's a pleasure to have him."

Notably Marek Rodák put in another big shift in between the Fulham sticks and really endeared himself to the travelling fans by producing some quality saves, something that his Head Coach also took stock of.

"He pulled off some big saves really, certainly early on he pulled off one big save so he's been first class and I'm blessed to have two 'keepers who are pushing each other daily. Two top class 'keepers in this division certainly and Marek's done really well," he said.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/november/29/scott-parker-press conference-swansea

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Fulham Wins Best Hospitality

Fulham triumphed at the Football Business Awards on Thursday evening, claiming the Best Football Club Hospitality trophy.

Our Seasons Wine Lounge, which was opened in collaboration with BoConcept in the Riverside Stand, and the ground breaking Gin Bar – the first to be opened inside a stadium – were key reasons behind the win, according to the judging panel.

"The judges said that Fulham have built brilliantly creative modern environments delivering perfectly pitched delicacies with top restaurant service, with modern connotations and drive to meet customer preferences and needs. The introduction of a Wine Bar and football's one and only Gin Bar shows Fulham clearly know their market and how to please!"

Rob Paddon, the Club's Venue Sales Director, said: "I am delighted with last night's result. To get recognition from industry leaders and colleagues is just reward for everyone who works so tirelessly at the Club to deliver world class experiences every matchday. With Seasons and Gin Bar it required involvement from multiple departments across the Club, along with several fantastic partners, to deliver these creative and modern concepts. We would also like to pay tribute to our late colleague Zara Barka-Harrison, who played a pivotal role in transforming these areas."

For more information on the current hospitality packages available, please email [email protected], or call 020 8336 7555.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/november/29/fulham-wins-best-hospitality

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Aston Villa signing this prolific Championship star would help them sail the PL smoothly

Why Aston Villa must go all out to sign Aleksandar Mitrovic in January

Reports from BirminghamLive suggest that Aston Villa are tipped to complete a move for Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic in January.

Former Villa and Tottenham striker Darren Bent believes that Mitrovic is too good for the Championship and could be on his way away from Fulham in January with many Premier League clubs in need of a striker, including Aston Villa.

Villa are currently 15th in the Premier League standings and just 3 points clear of the relegation zone. After a poor start to the season, the Villans have endured ups and downs in their game and are struggling to move upwards in the table.

The Birmingham-based club seem to be struggling to get goals in the competition, despite making some big summer signings. Dean Smith's men have lacked the intensity while moving forward, thus resulting in a poor run of form.

Record signing Wesley, who joined for £22m, hasn't lived up to his reputation. While he has been Villa's top scorer this season with 4 goals in the league, back-up options Jonathan Kodija and Keinan Davies have been troubled with injuries.

Kodija has played only 20 minutes in the league this term due to ankle and cheek injuries. Meanwhile, Davies is set to sidelined for a month due to a hamstring issue.

As far as strikers are concerned, Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic is in the form of his life, scoring day in and out. In the Championship this season, he has scored 13 goals and assisted once in 17 appearances.

He is also enjoying an impressive run for Serbia, scoring 17 goals in his last 15 outings.

The 25-year-old moved to Fulham from Newcastle in 2018 and was bought by fellow compatriot Slavisa Jokanovic. Since his arrival at Craven Cottage, he has appeared 76 times for the London-based club.

Mitrovic would be a great acquisition for Villa in January. Wesley has been struggling to strike at the right time and Mitrovic would add firepower to their dull attack.

His goalscoring track has been impressive this season and Mitrovic could be the man to save them from going down further.

According to Whoscored, the Serbian has registered an average of 3.9 shots, 0.9 key passes and 1.1 dribbles per game this term for Fulham. His numbers prove that he has a knack of finding the net.



https://soccersouls.com/why-aston-villa-must-go-all-out-to-sign-aleksandar-mitrovic-in-january/

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Fulham Frustration

Second-Half Goals Inflict First Under-23 Cup Defeat

Fulham 2
Hilton 57, Abraham 67

Argyle 0

ARGYLE lost for the first time in five Premier League Under-23 Cup games in their third match of this year's competition, going down to two second-half goals inside 10 minutes at Fulham's impressive Motspur Park training base.

Midfielder Sonny Hilton opened the scoring with a long-range shot that somewhat freakishly spun back into the Argyle goal after 'keeper Mike Cooper had brilliantly palmed away the initial effort.

Timmy Abraham, lookalike and near soundalike younger brother of Chelsea and England striker Tammy, then doubled the home side's advantage with a predator's strike as the ball pinged around the Argyle goalmouth.

The Pilgrims were not without their moments but were unable to follow their earlier 1-1 draws at Everton and at home to Watford with anything other than another admirably wholehearted effort that speaks volumes for a healthy mentality throughout the club.

After a cagey start, Argyle forged the first half-chance of the game. Tafari Moore, playing left wing-back, sent Klaidi Lolos away and his low cross into the six-yard box found Alex Fletcher foraging for tidbits. Unfortunately, his final touch was lacking.

Fulham responded to the Greens' raid by upping the pressure on Cooper's goal. Little of note materialised, though, and Abraham fired over from the home side's clearest opportunity after creating space for a shot from just inside the Argyle box.

Cooper was called into meaningful action when Fulham forward Ben Davis dropped deep to feed Hilton, whose run had taken him behind the Pilgrim defensive line. The Argyle 'keeper, though, read the danger and came from his line to save bravely at Hilton's feet.

Hilton's subsequent long-range shot threatened more than it delivered before Argyle came back at their hosts. A free-kick from captain Adam Randell was probably not intended as a shot, but the ball was dropping in at the far post before goalkeeper Taye Ashby-Hammond intervened with a crucial punch.

Argyle began the second half at a gallop and Luke Jephcott was denied from getting a clean shot off by Ashby-Hammond's speed from his line before, at the other end, John Gilbert teed up Davis for what looked short odds-on the opener. Peck, however, had other ideas and threw himself into the path of the ball to effect a superb block.

Another block followed before the ever-present Hilton broke the deadlock. Cooper, acting more on instinctive reaction, than anything else, did well to get to a swerving shot from distance. However, he pushed the ball up, rarther than away, and the spin on it saw it loop up and plop almost apologetically into the far corner of the goal.

Fletcher and Fulham substitute Terry Ablade were denied by the respective goalkeepers before Argyle conceded a second goal for the first time in a match in this season's competition when Abraham rounded off a little penalty-area pinball.

Abalde, especially, continued to trouble the Green defence, making the most of the space afforded him by Argyle's desire to get something out of their visit to South London by keeping pressing, but the defence, backed up by Cooper, kept them out.

Fulham (3-5-2): 1 Taye Ashby-Hammond; 5 Zico Asare, 6 Jaydn Mundle-Smith, 3 Daniel Ojo; 2 Steven Sessegnon (16 Terry Ablade 63), 8 John Gilbert, 4 Tayo Edun, 10 Sonny Hilton, 11 Nicolas Santos Clase; 7 Ben Davis, 9 Timmy Abraham. Substitutes (not used): 12 Luca Ashby-Hammond, 14 Ben Tricker, 15 Jay Williams.

Booked: Abraham 69.

Argyle (3-5-2): 31 Mike Cooper; 2 Isaac Burdon, 30 Tom Purrington, 26 Mike Peck; 3 Jarvis Cleal, 20 Adam Randell (capt), 7 Charlie Miller, 29 Alex Fletcher, 22 Tafari Moore; 19 Klaidi Lolos, 28 Luke Jephcott. Substitutes (not used): 4 Ollie Tomlinson, 8 Reuben Collum, 9 Rubin Wilson, 10 Jerry Medine, 13 Tyler Coombes (gk).

Referee: Lloyd Wood.



https://www.pafc.co.uk/news/2019/november/fulham-v-argyle---report/

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Report | Swansea City 1 Fulham 2

A stirring second-half fightback was not enough for Swansea City as they were beaten by Fulham at the Liberty Stadium.

Steve Cooper's side produced a greatly-improved performance from the defeat to Millwall, but the clinical finishing of Aleksandar Mitrovic sent the Cottagers in two goals to the good at the break.

The Swans sought a way back into the game and picked up a real head of steam after George Byers had headed in to pull one back.

But they could not find an equaliser as Scott Parker's visitors took all three points.

Looking for a spark in front of the home crowd, the Swans – with Kyle Naughton, Byers and Sam Surridge in for Jake Bidwell, Bersant Celina and Borja Baston - made a bright start.

Fine work by Connor Roberts and Andre Ayew found Surridge free six yards out, but the striker's effort was saved from point-blank range by Marek Rodak, with the Fulham keeper then pushing away Naughton's curling follow-up.

Threatening deliveries from Matt Grimes and Roberts added to a positive start from the hosts as Fulham enjoyed a fair bit of possession without having much joy in attack.

The Swans were looking sharp and, when Grimes cushioned a poor Rodak clearance, Byers flashed a superb volley against the outside of the post from 25 yards.

Kristoffer Peterson was the next to try his luck as excellent pressing work from Ayew again won the ball high up the pitch.

But it was Fulham who took the lead in the 22nd minute. Lovely build-up play worked space on the left, and when Aboubakaer Kamara's show came back off the bar, Mitrovic coolly headed in his 14th goal of the season.

The goal sparked a period of fine play from the visitors, keeping the Swans at arm's length with crisp passing and movement.

But the hosts found their stride again in the 35th minute, a nice exchange between Surridge and Byers ended with the latter steering a shot toward the far post that Rodak got down quickly to parry.

A nice flowing move then ended with Ayew acrobatically hitting a volley straight at the Cottagers' keeper after Byers crossed from Jay Fulton's measured pass.

But the Swans were punished on the stroke of half-time as a slack pass from Peterson was picked off to leave Fulham with a three on two.

Kamara's pass found its way through to Mitrovic who made no mistake, firing high into the net to double the visitors' half-time advantage.

Swansea needed something at the start of the second half, and twice teasing crosses from Peterson would not quite drop for a white shirt in the area.

But Fulham responded with a wonderful passage of play as they calmly retained possession, moving Swansea around and working space for a Joe Bryan cross that so nearly gave Mitrovic a hat-trick.

Woodman superbly denied Ivan Cavaleiro as the winger feinted inside Ben Wilmot to get away a sharp shot.

Swansea hit back, Rodak again denying Byers as the midfielder's curling strike headed for the bottom corner.

And they pulled a goal back in the 65th minute as Barrie McKay, on for Peterson, hung up a high cross and this time Rodak could only push Byers' header into his own net.

The goal lifted the Liberty and the Swans, with McKay's slide-rule passes suddenly causing confusion in the Fulham rearguard.

Fulton saw his shot blocked by Denis Odoi, while Surridge's goal-bound effort from Mike van der Hoorn's cross was scrambled clear as the Swans piled on the pressure.

But Cooper's men could not find the goal they so desperately craved.

Swansea City: Freddie Woodman; Connor Roberts, Mike van der Hoorn, Ben Wilmot, Kyle Naughton; Jay Fulton (Tom Carroll 74), Matt Grimes (captain); Andre Ayew, George Byers, Kristoffer Peterson (Barrie McKay 58); Sam Surridge (Borja Baston 84).

Subs: Kristoffer Nordfeldt, Ben Cabango, Jake Bidwell, Bersant Celina.

Fulham: Marek Rodak, Denis Odoi, Alfie Mawson, Stefan Johansen, Aleksandar Mitrovic, Tom Cairney (captain), Tim Ream, Ivan Cavaleiro (Anthony Knockaert 85), Joe Bryan, Josh Onomah (Cyrus Christie 79), Aboubakar Kamara (Kevin McDonald 74).

Subs: Marcus Bettinelli, Neeskens Kabano, Matt O'Riley, Luca de la Torre.

Referee: Simon Hooper

Attendance: 16,024




https://www.swanseacity.com/news/report-swansea-city-1-fulham-2

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Swansea 1-2 Fulham: Aleksandar Mitrovic hits brace as Cottagers continue promotion push


On fire: Scott Parker's side have now won four games in a row. ( PA )

A first-half brace from Aleksandar Mitrovic helped Fulham to a 2-1 win over Swansea City as they battle for a promotion spot.

The Cottagers came into the match in fine form on the back of three consecutive wins in the Championship, with Scott Parker's men eyeing promotion back to the Premier League.

And they got off to the perfect start in the 22nd minute when Mitrovic broke the deadlock.

The Serbian reacted first after Aboubakar Kamara's effort cannoned back off the crossbar and headed beyond goalkeeper Freddie Woodman.

Mitrovic added his second of the night after some poor defending from the Welsh side, coolly firing into the top corner from close range to make it seven goals in six games.

Swansea began their fightback in the second half and clawed a goal back when George Byers headed home from Barrie McKay's cross.

But despite coming under heavy pressure in the final moment, the west London side held on to clinch a fourth straight win and move within four points of leaders West Brom.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/swansea-vs-fulham-result-aleksandar-mitrovic-hits-brace-as-cottagers-continue-promotion-push-a4300941.html

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Swansea 1-2 Fulham: Scott Parker's side go third in the Championship as Cottagers hold on for vital three points after Alexander Mitrovic double

    Fulham moved to third in the Championship with a crucial win away to Swansea
    Alexander Mitrovic put Fulham ahead with a first half double in South Wales
    Swansea pulled one back through a George Byers header with 25 minutes left
    The Cottagers held on to secure their fourth league win in a row on Friday

Aleksandar Mitrovic is simply a cut above the Championship.

Fulham's talisman scored 12 times in 17 matches when on loan from Newcastle United during their last promotion campaign in 2017-18.

This time around, the Serbian striker has 15 in 18 in the league already and a grand total of 24 in 24 for club and country since August.


An Alexander Mitrovic double sent Fulham third after a crucial win against Swansea


The Serb headed home to open the scoring before doubling Fulham's lead before half time


Mitrovic now has 15 goals in the league - the most of any player in the Championship

Whether Mitrovic's remarkable returns propel Fulham back to the Premier League remains to be seen but he certainly offered Swansea City a lesson in finishing here.

His two first-half strikes ensured a fourth consecutive win, giving Scott Parker's men valuable momentum ahead of the hectic winter schedule, and moved the Cottagers to within two points of Leeds United in second.

'Mitro loves it at his place, it is his home, he's comfortable,' said Parker. 'He is motivated by goals, get the ball in the right areas and he is there to finish them.

'We had an early scare but after we dominated and controlled the game. We got our noses in front and it was deserved. In the second-half we were the only team who looked like we would score.'

Defeat was arguably harsh on Swansea, who have stalled in recent weeks and have now gone four without victory, but they simply didn't take the many chances that fell their way. George Byers made the last 25 minutes more interesting but Fulham held out with relative comfort.

'We're really frustrated in not getting at least a draw,' said Swansea boss Steve Cooper. 'But we haven't taken the chances.

'Mitrovic doesn't miss those chances but we've given them the opportunity. It was a frustrating night.'

The first-half was extraordinary really. 95 per cent of the time, Swansea were in the ascendancy, stroking the ball around, attacking with purpose and carving out some decent chances.


Wolverhampton Wanderers loanee Ivan Cavaleiro caused plenty of problems in South Wales

In the other five per cent of the time, Fulham and Mitrovic showed razor-sharp instinct to take command of the contest.

Any concerns we might be in for a snoozefest with the players heavy-legged having only played three nights earlier were quickly dispelled.

Swansea stormed out of the blocks and could easily have led six minutes in.

Andre Ayew picked out a cross from the right that was met by Sam Surridge barely three yards out. The Bournemouth loanee seemed certain to score but Marek Rodak somehow managed to get in the way. The Fulham keeper then turned away a follow-up attempt by Kyle Naughton.


Fulham keeper Marek Rodak shone again as he denied Swansea on a number of occasions

The visitors were struggling to get anything going and could barely get out of their own half. The ball sat up nicely for George Byers to strike on the edge of the box, his crisp half-volley grazing the post with Rodak scrambling.

Swansea continued to show energy, pouring forward at every opportunity and troubling Fulham with their high press. Tom Cairney was robbed of possession by Ayew, leading to Kristoffer Peterson shooting over.

That was four clear-cut opportunities passed up and how Fulham made them pay midway through the half.

It was Fulham's first foray forward, working passes neatly down the left until Joe Bryan swung the ball in. Aboubakar Kamara stuck out a leg and diverted it onto the crossbar.


Swansea pulled one back with 25 mins left as George Byers rose highest to head home

As the ball bounced back out, Mitrovic was the only one to react, planting a firm header into the top corner with dead-eye accuracy.

It didn't exactly prompt a spell of Fulham dominance, with Swansea still the most threatening team.

Rodak pushed away another Byers strike after Surridge pushed down the left to tee him up before Fulham's Slovak keeper blocked an acrobatic effort from Ayew.

Two minutes before half-time and Swansea's profligacy was punished again in devastating fashion. To add insult, it was their own fault.

Peterson was boxed in close to half-way and forced to play it back, his blind pass intercepted by Josh Onomah, who fed Ivan Cavaleiro on the right.


Byers rallied the crowd as Swansea took the game to the visitors in a tense finale

His cross was misjudged by Onomah but dropped ideally for the unmarked Mitrovic at the back post and he was never going to miss.

Swansea's dilemma was the more they pushed forward searching for a route back into contention, the easier it would be for Fulham to pick them off on the break.

A case in point came 10 minutes into the second-half, when Joe Bryan and Ivan Cavaleiro combined in acres of space down the left. Bryan ultimately fizzed a ball across the six-yard box and Mitrovic was inches away from his hat-trick.

Cavaleiro then stung the palms of Freddie Woodman with a curling shot from the edge of the Swansea box.


Scott Parker's side have now won their last four games in a row as they surge up the table

But after all their plugging away, Swansea finally got themselves a lifeline with 25 minutes left. They won a free-kick on the left corner of the box, only for Barrie McKay to initially fire into the Fulham wall.

But McKay was afforded a second chance and hooked in a cross that had white shirts queuing up to score. It was Byers who jumped highest, heading straight at Rodak but this time the keeper could only help it in.

The momentum shifted and Surridge saw a goalbound shot deflected to safety as Fulham rode their luck. But, thanks to Mitrovic, they'd done enough.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7740019/Swansea-1-2-Fulham-Scott-Parkers-Championship.html

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Mitrovic scores twice as Fulham win at Swansea

Swansea 1 Fulham 2

Aleksandar Mitrovic scored twice as Fulham clinched a fourth consecutive win.

Mitrovic netted midway through the first half and again a couple of minutes before the interval, taking his tally for the season to 15.

The Serbian striker put Fulham ahead by heading in the loose ball after Aboubakar Kamara's first-time shot from Joe Bryan's left-wing cross came off the bar.

The goal came against the run of play as Swansea had been on top.

Whites keeper Marek Rodak produced a superb save to deny Sam Surridge at point-blank range and George Byers fired against the outside of the post.

Mitrovic's opener changed the course of the game and his second came courtesy of a slice of good fortune.

Josh Onomah mis-cued after being found by Ivan Cavaleiro's cross but the ball dropped to Mitrovic, who finished emphatically.

Byers gave Swansea hope by heading home Barrie McKay's 65th-minute cross, but Fulham held on.
Fulham: Rodak, Odoi, Mawson, Ream, Bryan, Johansen, Cairney, Kamara (McDonald 74), Onomah (Christie 79), Cavaleiro (Knockaert 85), Mitrovic.
Subs not used: Bettinelli, Kebano, Christie, O'Riley, De La Torre.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/mitrovic-scores-twice-as-fulham-win-at-swansea

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Report Aleksandar Mitrovic double earns Fulham vital win at Championship promotion rivals Swansea

Aleksandar Mitrovic struck twice in the first-half to earn Fulham a 2-1 win over promotion rivals Swansea on Friday night.

The Serbia striker took his tally to 23 goals in as many games for club and country this season as he led his side to within two points of the Championship's automatic promotion places.

George Byers scored a second-half header, but it was not enough to end Swansea's dismal home run of just one win from their last seven matches at the Liberty Stadium.

Fulham's fourth consecutive victory took them to within a win of second-placed Leeds before Saturday's matches.

Hosts Swansea had made three changes, with Steve Cooper bringing in Kyle Naughton, Byers and Sam Surridge for Jake Bidwell, Bersant Celina and Borja Baston following the midweek draw at Huddersfield.

Fulham came to the Liberty Stadium on the back of a fine run of form that had propelled them up to third place.

But manager Scott Parker was forced into a single enforced change as Josh Onomah came into midfield after Bobby Reid – who netted his first Fulham goal in the win against Derby in midweek – failed a fitness test.

The Swans have taken just four points from a possible 21 at home since the start of September but they began as if they were brimming with confidence.

Surridge somehow failed to score from four yards out after Andre Ayew's audacious outside of the foot cross, before Byers struck a post.

But Mitrovic continued his goalscoring run to give Fulham the lead against the run of play after 22 minutes.

Aboubakar Kamara connected with Joe Bryan's cross to send a side-footed shot crashing back off the crossbar, but Mitrovic followed up to head in.

And he was not done there as Fulham punished Swansea on the break two minutes before half-time.

Kristoffer Peterson's risky pass deep in his own half was intercepted by Onomah into the path of Ivan Cavaleiro. Onomah raced into the box to get on the end of the cross but scuffed a shot into the path of Mitrovic, who showed his teammate how it is done by finding the top corner.

Byers gave Swansea hope with 25 minutes remaining when he headed in from Barrie McKay's cross after his initial free-kick was blocked by the wall.

But the fightback fell short as Parker's men held on for an away win.



https://talksport.com/football/efl/636456/aleksandar-mitrovic-fulham-swansea/

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Swansea 1-2 Fulham: Aleksandar Mitrovic scores twice as Whites close on top two
Report and highlights from the Sky Bet Championship clash at the Liberty Stadium

Fulham moved to within two points of second-place Leeds as they beat Swansea 2-1 and recorded their fourth Sky Bet Championship win in succession at the Liberty Stadium on Friday night.

Aleksandar Mitrovic gave the visitors the lead against the run of play with a close-range finish (22), before adding a clinical second to give Scott Parker's men a commanding lead before the half-time whistle (43).

A header from George Byers gave the Swans a glimmer of hope (65) but Fulham weathered the storm to pick up three points in south Wales.

Fulham stay third after the victory, though Marcelo Bielsa's men remain firmly within their sights and while Swansea stay sixth after their fifth home defeat of the season, both Bristol City and Brentford can move above them with victory on Saturday.

Mitrovic's double proves pivotal for Fulham

With plenty at stake in this fixture between two of the division's leading play-off hopefuls, who share a similar attacking approach, there was never going to be a shortage of entertainment.

The Cottagers had won three league games in succession ahead of kick-off, but that streak came under threat in the first 20 minutes, firstly when Marek Rodak saved Sam Surridge's effort at point-blank range, before Byers' rasping half-volley struck the outside of the post.

But their inability to take advantage when in control was punished soon after when Mitrovic scored his first goal of the evening, heading a loose ball over the line after Aboubakar Kamara's effort had crashed off the underside of the crossbar.

Though there was no shortage of desire to get back into the game from the hosts, they had themselves to blame for going two down; Josh Onomah snuffed out Kristoffer Peterson's pass and fed Ivan Cavaleiro, who crossed for Mitrovic to add a clinical second.

Team news

Steve Cooper made three changes to the side that drew with Huddersfield in midweek: Kyle Naughton replaced Jake Bidwell, George Byers came in for Bersant Celina and Sam Surridge started up front at the expense of Borja Baston.

There was just the one change for Fulham boss Scott Parker as he went for a fourth win on the spin, with Josh Onomah starting in place of Bobby Reid.

The battle between Byers and Rodak had been bubbling for more than an hour, with the 22-year-old goalkeeper largely on top, but with 25 minutes to play, Byers got his own back when he headed a cross from Barrie McKay over the line.

As expected a barrage of chances followed for the hosts, but while Byers saw another long-distance drive blocked, Steve Cooper's men couldn't muster enough to avoid defeat.

Man of the match - Aleksandar Mitrovic

Though he was suspended for the visit of QPR last Friday night, in the two games since, Mitrovic has proved just how important he'll be to any promotion bid Fulham mount this season.

After one goal against Derby in midweek, his two at the Liberty Stadium took his tally to 24 goals in his last 24 games for club and country. Clinical as ever, Scott Parker will want to keep him out of trouble for the busy festive period that lies ahead.

What's next?

Fulham return to Craven Cottage next Saturday, where they host Bristol City at 3pm, while Swansea travel to West Brom on Sunday December 8 in a game live on Sky Sports Football. That game gets underway at midday.



https://www.skysports.com/football/swansea-vs-fulham/409574

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Aleksandar Mitrovic at the double as Fulham win again

Aleksandar Mitrovic added another brace of goals to his prolific scoring streak to earn Fulham a 2-1 victory at Swansea.

The Serbia striker took his tally to 23 goals in as many games for club and country this season as he led his side to within two points of the Championship's automatic promotion places.

George Byers scored a second-half header, but it was not enough to end Swansea's dismal home run of just one win from their last seven matches at the Liberty Stadium.

Fulham's fourth consecutive victory took them to within a win of second-placed Leeds before Saturday's matches.

Hosts Swansea had made three changes, with Steve Cooper bringing in Kyle Naughton, Byers and Sam Surridge for Jake Bidwell, Bersant Celina and Borja Baston following the midweek draw at Huddersfield.

Fulham came to the Liberty Stadium on the back of a fine run of form that had propelled them up to third place.

But manager Scott Parker was forced into a single enforced change as Josh Onomah came into midfield after Bobby Reid – who netted his first Fulham goal in the win against Derby in midweek – failed a fitness test.

The Swans have taken just four points from a possible 21 at home since the start of September but they began as if they were brimming with confidence.

Surridge somehow failed to score from four yards out after Andre Ayew's audacious outside of the foot cross, before Byers struck a post.

But Mitrovic continued his goalscoring run to give Fulham the lead against the run of play after 22 minutes.

Aboubakar Kamara connected with Joe Bryan's cross to send a side-footed shot crashing back off the crossbar, but Mitrovic followed up to head in.

And he was not done there as Fulham punished Swansea on the break two minutes before half-time.

Kristoffer Peterson's risky pass deep in his own half was intercepted by Onomah into the path of Ivan Cavaleiro. Onomah raced into the box to get on the end of the cross but scuffed a shot into the path of Mitrovic, who showed his team-mate how it is done by finding the top corner.

Byers gave Swansea hope with 25 minutes remaining when he headed in from Barrie McKay's cross after his initial free-kick was blocked by the wall.

But the fightback fell short as Parker's men held on for an away win.



Read more at https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/aleksandar-mitrovic-double-fulham-win-again#5qw4xL7wK7aR2DOZ.99

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Mitrovic brace sinks Swansea

Another double from Aleksandar Mitrovic sealed a smash and grab raid for Fulham at their promotion rivals Swansea City this evening.

The Londoners were indebted to the Serbian striker's ruthless finishing as they built a two-goal cushion at half-time despite being largely outplayed by Steve Cooper's side in south Wales. Marek Rodak showed exactly why Scott Parker has recently installed him as Fulham's number one with a number of crucial saves as the Swans both dominated possession and carved out several promising opportunities.

The home side were in enterprising mood from the off but couldn't find a way past the Slovakian international goalkeeper. Rodak produced an outstanding reaction save to deny Sam Sturridge when he looked certain to score at the back post after a fine cross from Andre Ayew and then recovered swiftly to turn aside a low drive from Kyle Naughton in the next phase of play. Byers couldn't punish a rare mistake from Rodak when the Fulham keeper's lax clearance fell to Matt Grimes, with the impressive midfielder striking the outside of the post from 20 yards out.

Fulham looked fragile at the back but weathered the early storm and hit the front with their first serious foray forward. A flowing team move worked space for Joe Bryan down the left and when Aboubakar Kamara's venomous volley came back off the crossbar, Mitrovic reacted quickest to head home the rebound inside the six-yard box. The goal visibly lifted the visitors, who began to get their crisp passing going, and Fulham found a sucker punch just before the break.

Parker's side pressed Swansea high up the pitch, with Josh Onomah capitalising on a poor pass from Kristoffer Peterson to play Ivan Cavaleiro in down the inside right channel. There was a little bit of fortune as Cavaleiro's cross found its way to Mitrovic via an Onomah airshot, but the Serbian striker needed no encouragement to fire his fifteenth goal of the season high into the top corner.

Swansea could justifiably feel aggrieved at being two goals down on the balance of play and they reemerged for the second half seeking an immediate riposte. A couple of teasing balls from Peterson wouldn't drop for the likes of Ayew or Surridge in the box and the hosts couldn't switch off at the other end as Fulham's threat on the counter-attack nearly delivered a third when Bryan's low cross only just eluded a sliding Mitrovic at the far post.

Freddie Woodman then produced a smart diving save to keep the hosts in the contest after Cavaleiro had turned teenage defender Ben Wilmot inside out. Swansea continued to push for a route back into the contest with Byers bringing the very best out of Rodak after being teed up by Ayew on the edge of the Fulham area. Byers' clever curler looked destined for the bottom corner, but Rodak turned it aside.

Swansea did establish a lifeline seven minutes later when they got their reward for not letting their heads drop. Substitute Barrie McKay drilled a free-kick into the wall, but floated a far more dangerous delivery in from the rebound and Byers drifted behind Alfie Mawson to head home despite Rodak's desperate attempts to keep it out.

Belief suddenly surged through the Liberty Stadium and Swansea began to pen Fulham, who switched to a back three in a bid to cling onto their advnatage, back. Denis Odoi bravely blocked a Jay Fulton shot at source on his hundredth start for the club, whilst a sea of bodies prevented Surridge from converting Mike van der Horn's cross. There appeared to be a great opening at the end of five minutes of added time when a glorious pass from Tom Carroll sent McKay clear down the left, but the resultant cross was woefully overhit.

Fulham's fortitude helped their secure a fourth consecutive win for the first time since April 2018 and allowed Parker's side to close the gap to second-placed Leeds to just two points. After a slow start, the Whites are certainly in the Championship promotion race.

SWANSEA CITY (4-2-3-1): Woodman; Roberts, Naughton, van der Horn, Wilmot; Fulton (Carroll 74), Grimes; A. Ayew, Peterson (McKay 57), Byers; Surridge (Baston 84). Subs (not used): Nordfeldt, Bidwell, Cabango. Celina.

GOAL: Byers (65).

FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Rodak; Odoi, Bryan, Mawson, Ream; Johansen, Cairney; Onomah (Christie 79), Kamara (McDonald 74), Cavaleiro (Knockaert 85); Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Bettinelli, O'Riley, Kebano, de la Torre.

BOOKED: Kamara.

GOAL: Mitrovic (22, 42).

REFEREE: Simon Hooper (Wiltshire).

ATTENDANCE: 16,024.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2019/11/mitrovic-brace-sinks-swansea/

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Aleksandar Mitrovic scores twice as Fulham to pile pressure on Swansea


Fulham celebrate following their 2-1 win in south Wales on Friday night Credit: PA

Swansea City 1 Fulham 2

Aleksandar Mitrovic continued his red-hot scoring streak with a poacher's double to crank up the pressure on the Championship front-runners.

The Championship's most deadly hitman has now scored a remarkable 23 goals in 23 games for club and country this season after leading his side to within two points of the automatic promotion places.

And manager Scott Parker admitted Fulham may face a January fight to keep the man who is fuelling the charge back to the Premier League.

"Mitrovic loves it at this place, it's his home and he's comfortable," said Parker. "When you have a top striker like Aleksandar in your team there will always be people floating around but he's happy and I'm sure we'll be alright.

"He's motivated by goals, typical striker, he's first class. We get the ball in the right areas and he's there to finish them."

Fulham's lethal hitman Mitrovic made Swansea pay for Sam Surridge's glaring miss in the opening 10 minutes. Abou Kamara connected with Joe Bryan's cross to send a side-footed shot crashing off the bar, but the Serbian followed up to head in and continue his remarkable scoring streak.

And he doubled the Cottagers' lead two minutes before half-time with his seventh goal in five matches. Kristoffer Peterson's risky pass deep in his own half was intercepted by Josh Onomah into the path of Ivan Cavaliero, whose cross was swept into the top corner by Mitrovic.

Byers gave Swansea hope with 25 minutes remaining when he headed in from Barrie McKay's cross after his initial free-kick was blocked by the wall, but Fulham held on to earn their fourth straight victory.

"We came up against a team that would compete in the Premier League with a Premier League budget, but we made them look ordinary at times," said Swansea manager Steve Cooper. "But when they have Mitrovic up front you can't give them opportunities."

Match details

Swansea:Woodman, Roberts, Wilmot, van der Hoorn, Naughton, Fulton (Carroll 74), Grimes, Ayew, Byers, Peterson (McKay 58), Surridge (Baston 84).
Subs not used: Nordfeldt (gk), Celina, Bidwell, Cabango.​
Fulham: Rodak, Odoi, Mawson, Ream, Bryan, Johansen, Cairney, Kamara (McDonald 74), Onomah (Christie 79), Cavaleiro (Knockaert 85), Mitrovic.
Subs not used: Bettinelli (gk), Kebano, O'Riley, De La Torre.
Booked: Kamara.​
Referee: Simon Hooper (Wiltshire).



https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2019/11/29/aleksandar-mitrovic-scores-twice-fulham-pile-pressure-swansea/

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Cottage Talk Full Time: Swansea City vs. Fulham

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

This episode is our initial reactions to Fulham's 2-1 victory against Swansea City. We discussed our opening thoughts along with discussing some key moments as well. We ended by sharing who we believed was the "Man Of The Match".


Lastly, you can also listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2019/11/29/20988462/cottage-talk-full-time-swansea-city-vs-fulham

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Crucial first-half brace seals victory for Fulham to maintain promotion push

ALEKSANDAR MITROVIC'S FIRST-half brace saw Fulham keep the pressure on the top two in the Championship with a 2-1 win at Swansea City.

The Serbia striker nodded in a 22nd-minute opener after Aboubakar Kamara hit the crossbar, and he moved on to 15 league goals for the season by lifting into the top corner from 12 yards following an error by Kristoffer Peterson two minutes before half-time.

Meanwhile, Republic of Ireland international Cyrus Christie was introduced as a second-half substitute for Fulham. He replaced Josh Onomah in the 79th minute.

George Byers was one of Swansea's most effective performers in their search for a response and got the goal his efforts deserved by heading past Cottagers goalkeeper Marek Rodak midway through the second half.

Fulham held out, though, to move two points behind second-placed Leeds United, while Swansea are vulnerable in the final play-off position heading into the weekend.



https://www.the42.ie/fulham-v-swansea-match-report-4912729-Nov2019/

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Fulham boss Parker expects January interest in Mitrovic

Fulham manager Scott Parker believes Aleksandar Mitrovic will be the subject of transfer interest in January after he continued his prolific scoring streak in the 2-1 win at Swansea.

The Serbia striker has now scored 23 goals in 23 games for club and country this season and his brace in south Wales lifted his side to within two points of the automatic promotion places.

"Mitrovic loves it at this place (Fulham), it's his home and he's comfortable," said Parker. "When you have a top striker like Aleksandar in your team there will always be people floating around, but he's happy and I'm sure we'll be alright.

"He's motivated by goals, typical striker, he's first class. We get the ball in the right areas and he's there to finish them."

Mitrovic silenced the Liberty Stadium crowd with his first goal in the 22nd minute after Sam Surridge and George Byers had gone close for the hosts.

Aboubakar Kamara connected with Joe Bryan's cross to send a side-footed shot crashing back off the bar, but Mitrovic followed up to head in the opener.

He then punished Swansea on the break two minutes before half-time. Kristoffer Peterson's pass deep in his own half was intercepted by Josh Onomah into the path of Ivan Cavaleiro.

Onomah raced into the box to get on the end of his cross but scuffed a shot into the path of Mitrovic, who swept it into the top corner.

Byers gave Swansea hope with 25 minutes remaining when he headed in from Barrie McKay's cross after his initial free-kick was blocked by the wall, but it wasn't enough to cancel out Mitrovic's double.

"They started the game pretty strongly and we had our keeper to thank in the first 10 minutes, where he pulled off a couple of good saves," Parker commented.

"But I felt from those early scares we dominated the game and controlled the game. We put the ball in the right areas and got our nose in front."

The Swans have now taken just four points from a possible 21 at home since the start of September, but manager Steve Cooper saw signs of improvement.

He said: "In terms of the chances we created and the performance level, maybe we deserved more.

"But we have not taken the chances and given away – particularly the second goal – a poor goal.

"We know Mitrovic plays up front for them and he does not miss those chances, but we have given him the opportunity.

"I thought it was our best performance for a while and that's why we are frustrated not to get a draw.

"We played some good football and created a lot more chances than we have done previously here. That was an objective."



Read more at https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/fulham-boss-parker-expects-january-interest-mitrovic#G6sbUpVpXIP1rwOq.99

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Fulham boss confident about keeping star striker at the club

Fulham manager Scott Parker said he expects striker Aleksandar Mitrovic to stay at Craven Cottage for the rest of the season.

The Serbian forward has scored 23 goals in as many games for Fulham, including a brace which secured all three points in a 2-1 win over Swansea on Friday night.

His performances have sent the transfer rumour mill turning and there are reports that Premier League clubs could make a bid to try and lure gk away from the Cottagers in January.

Parker believes there will be interest from other clubs who want to sign Mitrovic but ultimately he confident that their star man up front will stay and help Fulham in their push for promotion.

Speaking to FourFourTwo, he said: "Mitrovic loves it at this place (Fulham), it's his home and he's comfortable.

"When you have a top striker like Aleksandar in your team there will always be people floating around, but he's happy and I'm sure we'll be alright.

"He's motivated by goals, typical striker, he's first class. We get the ball in the right areas and he's there to finish them."

Fulham's win on Friday night in South Wales moved them to within two points of second-places Leeds United who host struggling Middlesbrough at Elland Road on Saturday.

It was their fourth consecutive win in the Sky Bet a Championship and Parker was happy with his his team controlled the game at the Liberty Stadium.

He said: "They started the game pretty strongly and we had our keeper to thank in the first 10 minutes, where he pulled off a couple of good saves.

"But I felt from those early scares we dominated the game and controlled the game. We put the ball in the right areas and got our nose in front."



https://the72.co.uk/150427/fulham-boss-confident-about-keeping-star-striker-at-the-club/

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Fulham fans praise Aleksandar Mitrovic performance against Swanse

Fulham recorded an important victory away to Swansea City on Friday night – and some of the club's supporters on Twitter hailed their striker Aleksandar Mitrovic for his performance.

Scott Parker's team moved to within two points of the automatic spots in the Championship after beating sixth-placed Swansea at the Liberty Stadium.

The Whites sit third in the league table just behind Leeds United in second and are looking like real promotion candidates for this season.

Mitrovic, 25, netted a first-half brace that turned out to be decisive, with George Byers scoring for the hosts in the second period.

The centre-forward scored his first goal with a simple header into an empty net after 22 minutes, while his second just before half-time was a clinical finish inside the box that he rifled into the roof of the net.

He's now up to 15  goals in his 18 league appearances so far this campaign and is the standout attacker in the division right now.

A selection of Fulham supporters on social media picked out Mitrovic for immense credit following yet another goalscoring masterclass.

His 11 Premier League goals last season weren't enough to keep the London club in the top-flight, but he's stuck with them and is now tearing up Championship defences.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-fans-praise-aleksandar-mitrovic-performance-against-swansea/