Sunday Fulham Stuff - 01/03/20...

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Results

Saturday
Hull	0-4	Leeds
Blackburn	2-2	Swansea
Cardiff	2-2	Brentford
Fulham	2-0	Preston NE
Huddersfield	4-0	Charlton
Luton	1-1	Stoke
Millwall	1-1	Bristol City
QPR	2-2	Birmingham
Reading	2-0	Barsnley
Sheff Wed	1-3	Derby
West Brom	0-1	Wigan

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Fulham 2-0 Preston North End

David Nugent scored in Preston's win over Fulham in December, the only other goal he has scored this season

David Nugent's own goal and Aboubakar Kamara's injury-time effort ensured Fulham edged past promotion rivals Preston North End to keep up the pressure on the Championship's top two West Bromwich Albion and Leeds.

Nugent could only flick on an Anthony Knockaert corner and the ball looped past keeper Declan Rudd into the far corner to put the hosts ahead after the break at Craven Cottage.

Preston, who have now lost three of their past four games, had the better of the first half, with Sean Maguire having an effort ruled out for offside and Alan Browne forcing a decent save from keeper Marek Rodak.

But Fulham steadily improved and after Nugent's unfortunate intervention, substitute Kamara's breakaway 95th-minute goal wrapped up back-to-back home wins and kept Scott Parker's side five points adrift of Leeds United and closed the gap to six points behind leaders West Brom.

Second-placed Leeds had earlier thumped Hull City, while the Baggies were surprise losers at home to Wigan.

Preston remain sixth and in the final play-off spot but are now just two points ahead of seventh-placed Bristol City.

But although they failed to create many openings in a match that saw just six efforts on target, they could easily have taken the lead before they trailed just before the hour, with Browne having a second shot saved by Rodak.

Fulham's steady improvement saw them get on top following the opening goal and substitute Cyrus Christie was a fraction away from a second goal with a dipping volley.

The visitors' best chance of an equaliser saw Rodak save superbly from close range to keep out Patrick Bauer's header late on.

And with the game stretched deep in added time, Ivan Cavaleiro teed up Kamara after a slick counter-attack.

Fulham boss Scott Parker said:

"It is always important for us to win matches and we always go into every game expecting to win.

"Of course, West Brom and Leeds have been the most consistent and they are two very good teams.

"We have them both to play but we have to concentrate first on Bristol City next week and the games that follow that and see what we can do."

Preston manager Alex Neil told BBC Radio Lancashire:

"I think we started brightly and then obviously the set-play comes in and I don't know how it happens but it comes off Nugent and goes in.

"As with any game the first goal is always crucial. Then we end up with a corner, they counter and it ends 2-0 which I think flatters Fulham.

"We're the makers of our own downfall really. A cross into the box and we head it into our own goal. To be honest, we gifted them [the game]."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51547892

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Head Coach press conference

Scott Parker saluted his side's doggedness to ride the Preston storm early on and grow into the game to secure all three points.

The visitors had the better of the game in the first half, but Fulham grew into the game, scoring two second half goals to secure all three points.

"I think in the first 20 minutes we had to weather a bit of a storm." Parker said. "Preston had a day extra in their recovery having played Tuesday night and I felt they put pressure on us. I thought they had the better of it but the longer the half went on, we grew into the game.

"We cut through them at times. At half time and coming into the second half I always thought the first goal would be crucial, which is a typical Championship game. We managed to get that and after the goal we were in the ascendency. The put some bodies up there and went more direct. Again, I thought we defended our own box very well.

The Championship is relentless in terms of the schedule, which is starting to affect the condition of his players, Joe Bryan an example of that today.

"It's tough in this league. Joe Bryan has damaged his hamstring after six minutes which is down to overuse. The games come thick and fast, and that's the dynamic. I'm just pleased with the dogged display. This was a game where we needed to go toe-to-toe with them, it was a great game for the neutral but ultimately, we nicked the goal and saw the game out.

"My main focus is to worry about us. This division brings so many surprises and if you start looking too far ahead it can jab you on the nose. Over the last 14 games, we've lost two and we're in good form, so it comes from focussing on us. Let's see where we lie at the start of May."

Parker is starting to reap the rewards of a 'winning mentality' that has been drummed into his side with two wins in four days. He acknowledged the mindset of a side he inherited that were used to losing.

He continued: "This team last season were used to losing football matches and in the space of three months they were suddenly expected to win every game. Teams that come up into the Premier League such as Sheffield United, are used to winning games, take it up with them and it becomes easier. That to me is a mindset.

"Over the course of a year, what I've tried to do is to get them to understand embracing expectation and seeing the bigger picture. You need to have a character. Wednesday night showed that having missed a penalty, stop them from scoring, then go and nick it at the end. We're slowly getting there, but hopefully they realise that can make us successful."

Scott also praised the two substitute's' impact on the game, in particular Cyrus Christie, having spent time away from the starting XI. The Gaffer also commented on Aboubakar Kamara's effectiveness form the bench in recent weeks.

"He [Aboubakar Kamara] might have felt a bit hard done by not starting today. He's done well off the bench with two assists. He came on and could have easily looked at me and said: 'told you so'. He has a real character about him and has come on leaps and bounds. He'll keep knocking on the door.

"Cyrus Christie, who hasn't been around for a few games, was exceptional. I don't expect anything less from him, he takes disappointment on the chin and as a motivation to work. He knows sulking gets him further away from the team. He deserves his moment today."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/february/29/head-coach-press conference-pne

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Club begin operation to secure services of Fulham player – Talks commence

Fotomac report Galatasaray will begin the operation to sign Fulham's Jean Michael Seri in the near future.

The Ivorian midfielder, who was loaned from Fulham at the start of the season, made a terrible start to his Galatasaray career but has managed to turn the things around, like his team.

Seri was excellent during Galatasaray's recent derby win against Fenerbahce, and after his recent good run of form it seems Galatasaray have changed their mind about the Fulham owned player.

Last month there were reports in the Turkish press that Galatasaray wanted to part ways with Seri, but Fotomac report Turkish club are now happy with the 28 year old.

It's claimed Galatasaray have already started talks with Fulham with regards to keeping the Ivory Coast international beyond this season.

Gala have the option to make his move permanent for €18m at the end of the season but given their finances it's unlikely they can pay this.

It seems he doesn't have a future at Fulham next season, and his contract at Craven Cottage will expire at the end of June 2022.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-begin-operation-secure-services-fulham-player-talks-commence/

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2 emerging Fulham talents that could save the club millions in the future

Fulham have one of the best squads in the division.

Scott Parker's side boast arguably the best team of players in the division, but they've also got a lot of exciting names coming through the development squad.

Fulham haven't been renowned for their youth production of late but today, the club seems to be bringing more through, and better quality players too.

Here we take a look at two emerging Fulham talents that could save the club millions in the future:

Jay Stansfield
Fulham snatched Stansfield from the Exeter City youth academy in the summer of last year. He had an instant impact in the U18 side and then the development side, having netted 23 goals in total this season.

His stint in the U23s after being promoted from the U18s was short-lived, and Stansfield was boosted into Parker's first team towards the end of last year. He made his debut against Aston Villa in the FA Cup last month but has since made just the one substitute appearance for the first-team.

The 17-year-old though is still working away in the development set-up and looks set to have more involvement with the first-team come next season, if not a loan-deal somewhere in the Football League.

He's an old-school striker who can score an array of goals and would be someone that Fulham could eventually sell on for big profits, if they develop and nurture him correctly that is.

Steven Sessegnon
Sessegnon, 19, has not had the season he would've been hoping for. With Fulham having dropped back to the Championship, and after seeing how well his twin brother Ryan did for Fulham at this level, Steven may have been expecting more involvement this year.

He's made 11 Championship appearances so far this season, having started twice since New Year, including in the FA Cup tie at Manchester City, but he's not held a regular place down in the team.

He remains an exciting prospect for the club though. He's similar traits to his brother but is more of a defensive-minded wing-back, with tonnes of pace and agility, but trying to emulate Ryan's success may have put too much hype on Steven.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-emerging-fulham-talents-that-could-save-the-club-millions-in-the-future/

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Fulham 2-0 Preston: Scott Parker's men remain in hunt for automatic promotion as David Nugent's OG and last-gasp Aboubakar Kamara strike earns victory

    Preston's Sean Maguire scored a first-half tap in but it was ruled out for offside
    The deadlock was eventually broken after David Nugent turned into his own net
    Aboubakar Kamara scored in the dying embers to wrap up the three points
    The victory leaves Fulham just five points outside automatic promotion spots

They had to scrap for it at times, but Fulham's pursuit of Leeds in second continues after Preston's push to stay in the play-off places was dealt a blow.

After Leeds had beat Hull to go eight points clear of third place, Fulham couldn't afford to drop points. This win, courtesy of David Nugent's own goal and Aboubakar Kamara's late strike, sets Scott Parker's side up nicely for tough fixtures against promotion rivals Bristol City, Brentford and Leeds.

How sweet it would be for Parker should Fulham find themselves in second at the end of that run having erased the five-point gap that stands between them and Leeds.



Fulham remained in the picture for automatic promotion after their narrow win over Preston


David Nugent got his header all wrong and flicked a cross into the box into his own net


Aboubakar Kamara struck at the death to wrap up the three points for Fulham

For Alex Neil's side, well, they demonstrated their organisational qualities but ultimately fell apart when dealing with Tom Cairney's creativity and dynamic forward runs by Ivan Cavaleiro and, more surprisingly, Cyrus Christie.

They have a two-point cushion in sixth place but surely their limitations going forward will mean they don't move any higher or somehow cause a shock in the play-offs in May.

They were without Ben Pearson here and that made the job of controlling the midfield much more difficult. Preston's push for the play-offs has been powered by their gritty approach, which is very much endorsed by manager Alex Neil and executed on the pitch by Pearson.

Fulham favour a rather more progressive style of play under Parker but were guilty of dawdling on the ball while trying to pick the perfect route forward in the early stages.

From the off, Preston closed down at a rapid rate and Fulham struggled to find their rhythm. They were also slow to react when experienced striker Nugent got the ball under control before setting Tom Barkhuizen free down the right. Barkhuizen moved forward and into the Fulham area but an excellent tackle from Michael Hector stopped him from going any further.

It was a signal, though, that Fulham had to be more alert, particularly when marking. But three minutes later, after failing to pick up Nugent, Preston had the ball in the Fulham net. Thankfully for Parker's defence, Sean Maguire, who turned in Nugent's flick on from Daniel Johnson's corner was offside and the goal was chalked off.

It was becoming a struggle for Fulham's central midfield duo of Tom Cairney and Harry Arter to start attacks but they helped in controlling the overall tempo of the play. And without Pearson, Preston weren't getting close to them as they effortlessly moved the ball from side to side.

Fulham enjoyed one of their better moves of the game when Bobby Reid took control of the ball inside the Preston box after a fine ball after some smart play by Christie. Reid shifted the ball onto his left foot but his effort went wide at the near post.

The rain and wind which swept off the River Thames made any aerial play somewhat difficult but it was Preston who handled the conditions better as they pressed on. Fulham goalkeeper Marek Rodak had to carefully judge the trajectory of Alan Browne's scuffed volley to prevent the visitors from taking a fortuitous lead ahead of half-time.


Sean Maguire thought he'd scored opener when he tapped into an empty net but was offside


Ivan Cavaleiro went close for Fulham in the first half but couldn't find the target with his shot

It was a first half that lacked intensity from Fulham. Preston are resilient and it takes more than slow build-up play to worry them. Fast, sweeping moves that leave them retreating back to their own goal is the way to go and Fulham finally got the message in the opening stages of the second half and lasted until the final whistle.

Cavaleiro, who saw little of the ball in the opening 45 minutes, moved higher up the pitch, placing more pressure on full back Darnell Fisher. Anthony Knockaert did the same on the other side, which forced Andrew Hughes to defend more than he usually likes. It unsettled Preston and on 58 minutes they went behind. Nugent misjudged Knockaert's corner and sent a looping header over goalkeeper Declan Rudd and into his own net. Had it been at the other end, the 34-year-old striker would have been proud.

Buoyed by taking the lead, Fulham pushed higher and Preston were scrapping for second balls.

Cairney became a more dynamic presence in attacking midfield and his instinctive delivery from the left had to be dealt with by Rudd before it could reach Aleksandar Mitrovic. Christie was the next to try and extend Fulham's lead but his dipping volley crept wide. Fulham's job was complete in stoppage time when Kamara finished from close range after running from inside his own half. He sped forward, played a pass across to Cavaleiro only for the ball to come back to Kamara to bury his strike.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-8059541/Fulham-2-0-Preston-Scott-Parkers-men-remain-hunt-automatic-promotion-comfortable-win.html

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Fulham 2 Preston North End 0 - Match report on a second away defeat of the week for the Lilywhites
Preston North End went down to a second away defeat in five days to a promotion rival as they were beaten by Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The Lilywhites produced performances which contrasted greatly between the first and second halves.

In the first half they were bright, lively and pressed well, having the better chances - Sean Maguire had the ball in the net but saw it ruled out for offside.

The second 45 minutes was a different affair, North End offering little going forward as the Cottagers got a control of the game and ultimately won it.

Fulham got a slice of good fortune to take the lead, David Nugent heading into his own net in the 58th minute as he tried to cut out a corner from Anthony Knockaert.

It looked like that would prove suffice to give them victory but the hosts got a second deep into stoppage-time, counter-attacking after a North End corner.

Substitute Aboubakar Kamara broke clear to score, that probably a layer of glass which didn't reflect the full piece.

Defeat in London followed the loss by the same scoreline to West Bromwich Albion last Tuesday night.

While they held on to sixth spot, the importance of next week's Deepdale clash with Queens Park Rangers has grown.

The one change made by Alex Neil from the defeat at West Bromwich Albion was enforced, Brad Potts replacing Ben Pearson who was out injured.

Potts started as the No.10 in the 4-2-3-1 system, Alan Browne and Daniel Johnson starting further back in midfield.

North End made a very bright to the game at a three-sided ground - the Cottagers are currently redeveloping their stadium.

A great move on the counter attack almost brought a seventh-minute breakthrough, Ben Davies breaking-up a Fulham move and playing the ball forward to find Nugent who in turn slipped a pass out to Tom Barkhuizen on the right-wing.

Barkhuizen hared towards the byline and pulled back a low cross which keeper Marek Rodak tried to cut out but couldn't hold.

It ran into the path of Potts who saw his shot blocked by centre-half Michael Hector.

PNE had the ball in the net in the 10th minute, Johnson's corner from the left flicked across the box by Nugent for Maguire to arrive at the far post and side-foot home from close range.

However, the flag went up against the Irishman for offside and it was chalked off.

Browne had a shot which bounced into the turf saved by Rodek, Barkhuizen having found him with a cross.

The first Fulham attempt on the Preston goal saw Knockaert's header comfortably gathered by Declan Rudd.

Then Bobby Reid was played into space down the right hand side of the box but pulled his low shot wide of the near post.

Patrick Bauer put a header wide at the far post from another Barkhuizen centre, the German having stayed up field after a corner had been partly cleared.

Knockaert could count himself lucky not to have got a red card when he pushed Darnell Fisher in the face after the ball had gone out of play in front of the dug outs.

Referee David Webb deemed a warning sufficient when other officials might not have been so lenient.

Four minutes before the interval, a neat piece of passing from North End down the left made room for Andrew Hughes to send over a cross.

It dropped in the box and bounced around before Browne had a swing and saw his shot saved by Rodek.

In the 45th minute, substitute Cyrus Christie got room to the right of goal and hit a low shot which Rudd dived to hold.

Fulham made the better start to the second half and took the lead in the most fortunate of circumstances just before the hour mark.

Knockaert's corner from the right flicked off Nugent's head as he jumped at the near post and flew across goal into the far top corner.

Nugent was later to be replaced by Jayden Stockley, with Scott Sinclair joining the action in place of Maguire.

two chances fell the way of Christie for the home side in quick succession, his 74th minute shot deflecting behind for a corner.

When the flag kick was headed back across goal it fell to the substitute who blasted over the bar.

North End offered little going forward in the second half, their only chance being a Hughes header from substitute Josh Harrop's free-kick which Rodak pushed out.

When they won a corner in the fourth minute of stoppage-time, all the PNE players piled forward into the box.

Harrop's corner stayed low, Johnson had a shot blocked and the ball broke to Kamara outside the box.

He sprinted clear and as the North End defence tried to get back to cover, Kamara swapped passes with Ivan Cavaleiro before firing home.

Fulham: Rodak, Odoi, Hector, Ream, Bryan (Christie 9), Cairney, Arter (McDonald 90), Knockaert (Kamara 77), Decordova-Reid, Cavaleiro, Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Kebano, Johansen, Sessegnon, Bettinelli.

PNE: Rudd, Fisher, Bauer, Davies, Hughes, Browne, Potts (Harrop 84), Barkhuizen, Johnson, Maguire Sinclair 72), Nugent (Stockley 66). Subs (not used): Clarke, Ledson, Huntington, Ripley.

Referee: David Webb (County Durham)

Attendance: 19,020 (1,964 PNE)



https://www.lep.co.uk/sport/football/preston-north-end/fulham-2-preston-north-end-0-match-report-second-away-defeat-week-lilywhites-2004879

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Fulham made to battle past plucky Preston

Fulham kept in touch with the Championship's automatic promotion places thanks to a second home win in four days as they beat Preston 2-0.

Former England striker David Nugent scored an own goal to give Fulham the lead after 58 minutes and substitute Aboubakar Kamara scored a breakaway second in added time.

The result was tough on Preston, who remain in sixth place but dominated for long periods without being able to find the net.

The home side knew three points were essential after Leeds' victory in the early kick-off and with Bristol City, Brentford and Leeds their next three opponents.

But it was Preston who had the best of the early stages.

Fulham goalkeeper Marek Rodak got away with a loose pass from his own area, Brad Potts intercepting but seeing his shot charged down.

Potts had another goal-bound effort blocked by Michael Hector after Rodak could only parry a low cross from Nugent.

The visitors had the ball in the net from the resulting corner but Sean Maguire was offside when he got the final touch to turn Nugent's flick past Rodak.

Fulham had to wait until the 20th minute for their first serious effort at goal, Bobby Decordova-Reid pulling a left-foot shot wide of the near post from 10 yards.

That heralded a spell of pressure from the home side but Preston quickly pulled 10 men behind the ball at any sign of danger and a series of crosses from substitute Cyrus Christie found only the heads of Preston defenders.

When Preston broke, they looked the more dangerous side.

Five minutes before half-time, they were so eager to score that three forwards got in each other's way, Alan Browne's shot eventually gathered by Rodak.

Christie, who replaced the injured Joe Bryan early on, made some driving runs down the right but otherwise it looked as if an error or a moment of inspiration would be needed to unlock the visitors' defence.

And after 58 minutes it proved to be the former as Nugent attempted to head clear from Anthony Knockaert's corner on the right. The ball skidded off his head and looped past goalkeeper Declan Rudd into the far corner of the net.

Christie missed a chance to double the lead when he volleyed past the angle of post and crossbar following a corner that one of his marauding runs had won.

Preston's chance to level came after 89 minutes but Rodak saved Andrew Hughes' header and with North End committed forward in added time, Kamara broke away to score a second after exchanging passes with Ivan Cavaleiro.



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/fulham-made-battle-past-plucky-preston

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Fulham 2-0 Preston: Cottagers maintain promotion push with hard-fought win
Report and highlights from the Sky Bet Championship clash at Craven Cottage

Fulham kept in touch with the Championship's automatic promotion places thanks to a second home win in four days as they beat Preston 2-0.

Former England striker David Nugent scored an own goal to give Fulham the lead after 58 minutes and substitute Aboubakar Kamara scored a breakaway second in added time.

The result was tough on Preston, who remain in sixth place but dominated for long periods without being able to find the net.

The home side knew three points were essential after Leeds' victory in the early kick-off and with Bristol City, Brentford and Leeds their next three opponents.

But it was Preston who had the best of the early stages.


Denis Odoi of Fulham celebrates his sides first goal, an own goal scored by David Nugent

Fulham goalkeeper Marek Rodak got away with a loose pass from his own area, Brad Potts intercepting but seeing his shot charged down.

Potts had another goal-bound effort blocked by Michael Hector after Rodak could only parry a low cross from Nugent.

The visitors had the ball in the net from the resulting corner but Sean Maguire was offside when he got the final touch to turn Nugent's flick past Rodak.

Fulham had to wait until the 20th minute for their first serious effort at goal, Bobby Decordova-Reid pulling a left-foot shot wide of the near post from 10 yards.

That heralded a spell of pressure from the home side but Preston quickly pulled 10 men behind the ball at any sign of danger and a series of crosses from substitute Cyrus Christie found only the heads of Preston defenders.

When Preston broke, they looked the more dangerous side.

Five minutes before half-time, they were so eager to score that three forwards got in each other's way, Alan Browne's shot eventually gathered by Rodak.

Christie, who replaced the injured Joe Bryan early on, made some driving runs down the right but otherwise it looked as if an error or a moment of inspiration would be needed to unlock the visitors' defence.

And after 58 minutes it proved to be the former as Nugent attempted to head clear from Anthony Knockaert's corner on the right. The ball skidded off his head and looped past goalkeeper Declan Rudd into the far corner of the net.

Christie missed a chance to double the lead when he volleyed past the angle of post and crossbar following a corner that one of his marauding runs had won.

Preston's chance to level came after 89 minutes but Rodak saved Andrew Hughes' header and with North End committed forward in added time, Kamara broke away to score a second after exchanging passes with Ivan Cavaleiro

What the managers said...
Fulham's Scott Parker: "It is always important for us to win matches and we always go into every game expecting to win. This is where it comes down even more so to our mindset. My players looked tired but we have a bit of belief about ourselves.

"In the first 20 minutes we had to weather a bit of storm. Preston had a day extra to recover and they put pressure on us. As the half went on I felt we were growing into the game but I always thought one goal would decide it. We managed to get that and afterwards I always felt we were in the ascendancy."

Preston's Alex Neil: "In the first half we had a goal disallowed and three really good opportunities to score. We started brightly in the second half but they got the set play and I don't know how it happens but it ends up hitting off Nugent's head and ending up in the back of the net.

"At a difficult venue the first goal is really important. We got a corner at the death and sent everybody up but we not only under-hit the corner, we don't cover quick enough. It ends up a 2-0 scoreline which certainly flatters Fulham. Until the first goal in my opinion we were the team that deserved to win it."




https://www.skysports.com/football/fulham-vs-preston/report/409770

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Result: Fulham battle past Preston to keep up pressure on top two

Fulham kept in touch with the Championship's automatic promotion places thanks to a second home win in four days as they beat Preston 2-0.

Former England striker David Nugent scored an own goal to give Fulham the lead after 58 minutes and substitute Aboubakar Kamara scored a breakaway second in added time.

The result was tough on Preston, who remain in sixth place but dominated for long periods without being able to find the net.

The home side knew three points were essential after Leeds' victory in the early kick-off and with Bristol City, Brentford and Leeds their next three opponents.

But it was Preston who had the best of the early stages.

Fulham goalkeeper Marek Rodak got away with a loose pass from his own area, Brad Potts intercepting but seeing his shot charged down.

Potts had another goal-bound effort blocked by Michael Hector after Rodak could only parry a low cross from Nugent.

The visitors had the ball in the net from the resulting corner but Sean Maguire was offside when he got the final touch to turn Nugent's flick past Rodak.

Fulham had to wait until the 20th minute for their first serious effort at goal, Bobby Decordova-Reid pulling a left-foot shot wide of the near post from 10 yards.

That heralded a spell of pressure from the home side but Preston quickly pulled 10 men behind the ball at any sign of danger and a series of crosses from substitute Cyrus Christie found only the heads of Preston defenders.

When Preston broke, they looked the more dangerous side.

Five minutes before half-time, they were so eager to score that three forwards got in each other's way, Alan Browne's shot eventually gathered by Rodak.

Christie, who replaced the injured Joe Bryan early on, made some driving runs down the right but otherwise it looked as if an error or a moment of inspiration would be needed to unlock the visitors' defence.

And after 58 minutes it proved to be the former as Nugent attempted to head clear from Anthony Knockaert's corner on the right. The ball skidded off his head and looped past goalkeeper Declan Rudd into the far corner of the net.

Christie missed a chance to double the lead when he volleyed past the angle of post and crossbar following a corner that one of his marauding runs had won.

Preston's chance to level came after 89 minutes but Rodak saved Andrew Hughes' header and with North End committed forward in added time, Kamara broke away to score a second after exchanging passes with Ivan Cavaleiro.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/result/result-fulham-battle-past-preston-to-keep-up-pressure-on-top-two_391348.html

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Parker impressed by the resilience of his Fulham players

Fulham manager Scott Parker admired his players' mental strength after their second narrow home victory in four days kept them in touch with the Sky Bet Championship's top two.

The Cottagers knew that they had to win to remain five points behind Leeds, who won the early kick-off at Hull 4-0, and although they did not produce one of their most fluent performances, they made the most of their luck.

Preston's David Nugent headed them into the lead with a 58th-minute own goal, before Aboubakar Kamara sealed a 2-0 success over Preston with a breakaway goal at the end.

Parker said: "It is always important for us to win matches and we always go into every game expecting to win.

"This is where it comes down even more so to our mindset. My players looked tired but we have a bit of belief about ourselves.

"In the first 20 minutes we had to weather a bit of storm. Preston had a day extra to recover and they put pressure on us.

"As the half went on I felt we were growing into the game but I always thought one goal would decide it. We managed to get that and afterwards I always felt we were in the ascendancy."

On the packed Championship schedule he added: "It is tough. Joe Bryan has damaged his hamstring after six minutes and that is overuse.

"But I was pleased by our dogged display today. It was two teams going toe-to-toe."

Fulham now face Bristol City and neighbours Brentford before visiting Elland Road for a chance to narrow the gap on Leeds.

Parker said: "Of course, West Brom and Leeds have been the most consistent and they are two very good teams.

"We have them both to play but we have to concentrate first on Bristol City next week and the games that follow that and see what we can do."

Preston manager Alex Neil was frustrated his side had played well for no reward and was annoyed referee David Webb did not show a red card to Fulham's Anthony Knockaert after the on-loan winger seemed to flick a hand into the face of Darnell Fisher.

Neil said: "If you hit someone in the face, whether it's a flick of your hand or a punch, you've lifted your hand and as far as I was concerned I don't think there was any question that it was a red card.

"The fourth official said to us 'well, he's a lenient referee.' I said: 'well that's really good, thanks very much for that.'

"If there's a mistimed tackle I understand giving a bit of leniency to attacking players because they don't tackle so much. But hitting someone in the face, regardless of who it is, is unacceptable."

He also bemoaned his team's ill-luck in the match, adding: "In the first half we had a goal disallowed and three really good opportunities to score.

"We started brightly in the second half but they got the set play and I don't know how it happens but it ends up hitting off Nugent's head and ending up in the back of the net.

"At a difficult venue the first goal is really important. We got a corner at the death and sent everybody up but we not only under-hit the corner, we don't cover quick enough. It ends up a 2-0 scoreline which certainly flatters Fulham.

"Until the first goal in my opinion we were the team that deserved to win it."



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/parker-impressed-resilience-his-fulham-players

[WhiteJC]

Scott Parker admits Fulham players were tired in Preston win

Fulham manager Scott Parker admired his players' mental strength after their second narrow home victory in four days kept them in touch with the Sky Bet Championship's top two.

The Cottagers knew that they had to win to remain five points behind Leeds, who won the early kick-off at Hull 4-0, and although they did not produce one of their most fluent performances, they made the most of their luck.

Preston's David Nugent headed them into the lead with a 58th-minute own goal, before Aboubakar Kamara sealed a 2-0 success over Preston with a breakaway goal at the end.

Parker said: "It is always important for us to win matches and we always go into every game expecting to win.

"This is where it comes down even more so to our mindset. My players looked tired but we have a bit of belief about ourselves.

"In the first 20 minutes we had to weather a bit of storm. Preston had a day extra to recover and they put pressure on us.

"As the half went on I felt we were growing into the game but I always thought one goal would decide it. We managed to get that and afterwards I always felt we were in the ascendancy."

On the packed Championship schedule he added: "It is tough. Joe Bryan has damaged his hamstring after six minutes and that is overuse.

"But I was pleased by our dogged display today. It was two teams going toe-to-toe."

Fulham now face Bristol City and neighbours Brentford before visiting Elland Road for a chance to narrow the gap on Leeds.

Parker said: "Of course, West Brom and Leeds have been the most consistent and they are two very good teams.

"We have them both to play but we have to concentrate first on Bristol City next week and the games that follow that and see what we can do."

Preston manager Alex Neil was frustrated his side had played well for no reward and was annoyed referee David Webb did not show a red card to Fulham's Anthony Knockaert after the on-loan winger seemed to flick a hand into the face of Darnell Fisher.

Neil said: "If you hit someone in the face, whether it's a flick of your hand or a punch, you've lifted your hand and as far as I was concerned I don't think there was any question that it was a red card.

"The fourth official said to us 'well, he's a lenient referee.' I said: 'well that's really good, thanks very much for that.'

"If there's a mistimed tackle I understand giving a bit of leniency to attacking players because they don't tackle so much. But hitting someone in the face, regardless of who it is, is unacceptable."

He also bemoaned his team's ill-luck in the match, adding: "In the first half we had a goal disallowed and three really good opportunities to score.

"We started brightly in the second half but they got the set play and I don't know how it happens but it ends up hitting off Nugent's head and ending up in the back of the net.

"At a difficult venue the first goal is really important. We got a corner at the death and sent everybody up but we not only under-hit the corner, we don't cover quick enough. It ends up a 2-0 scoreline which certainly flatters Fulham.

"Until the first goal in my opinion we were the team that deserved to win it."



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/scott-parker-admits-fulham-players-were-tired-in-preston-win_391364.html

[WhiteJC]

Cottage Talk Full Time: Fulham's 2-0 Victory Against Preston North End

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

In this episode, Emilio Di Nello and Craig Coben shared their initial reactions to this 2-0 victory for Fulham at Craven Cottage. Both Emilio and Craig were at the match, and they went through the key moments of this victory for Fulham, and shared who they thought was Man Of The Match.


Lastly, you can listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2020/2/29/21159227/cottage-talk-full-time-fulhams-2-0-victory-against-preston-north-end

[WhiteJC]

Parker hails Fulham's character after vital win

Fulham's character can help them succeed in their quest for Premier League status next season.

That's the verdict of boss Scott Parker after the Whites worked hard to see off sixth-placed Preston 2-0, who arrived in west London only four points behind.

While not a vintage performance by Parker's men at Craven Cottage, it was their second win at home in four days.

However, the good fortune was initially a result of Preston striker David Nugent heading into his own net to break the deadlock in the 58th minute.

With the Lancashire side understandably desperate for a late leveller, it fell to Fulham substitute Abou Kamara to burst beyond the tired visitors to end the contest in stoppage time.

It was the forward's fourth goal of the season, a vital intervention in what was always poised to be a challenging afternoon.

"I'm pleased about the dogged display," Parker admitted.

"The first 20 minutes we had to weather a storm. Preston had a day extra in their recovery and put pressure on us. I felt that one goal might decide the game and we managed to get that. After that I felt we were in the ascendancy.

"We need to embrace this expectation. If you want to be a top team you need something a bit different, to have character. We're slowly getting there."

Fulham have an intense batch of fixtures coming up in March, starting with a trip to Bristol City next Saturday, before a west London derby at home to promotion-chasing Brentford.

"It's always important to win matches – we've come out of a busy schedule and to go into a busy periods with 10 games left it's about our mentality now," explained Parker, who lost defender Joe Bryan to a hamstring injury as early as the eighth minute.

"West Brom and Leeds have been the best and most consistent in the division. They're top teams and we have them both to play but we need to concentrate first on Bristol.

"My main focus is to worry about us. This division brings surprises week-in, week-out, so if you look too far ahead you can be jabbed on the nose.

"I look at my players and we have a bit of belief about us now. The dramatic way we won says that I see a group of players prepared to grind out a result."



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

[WhiteJC]

Kamara clinches crucial Fulham win

Fulham ground out another vital win to keep themselves in the automatic promotion picture as a late strike from Aboubakar Kamara after David Nugent's own goal secured a victory over fellow promotion contenders Preston North End at Craven Cottage this afternoon.

Scott Parker's side were made to work hard for the three points by their visitors, with Preston enjoying plenty of the ball in the first half and creating a number of clear-cut chances. Alex Neill's side were unable to score when they were on top and, once Fulham got a stroke of good fortune to take the lead after Nugent inadvertently nodded in a near post corner from Anthony Knockaert, they assumed control of the contest.

The away side started the stronger – fashioning the first chance via a sweeping move down the right flank. Ben Davies stepped in to disrupt a Fulham attack, found Nugent and Tom Barkhuizen breezed away from Joe Bryan, who injured his hamstring attempting to match the midfielder's blistering pace, and when Marek Rodak could only parry the low cross into Brad Potts' path, Michael Hector had to make a last-ditch saving tackle. Cyrus Christie replaced Bryan, with Denis Odoi switching to left back, and the Republic of Ireland full back produced his most complete display in a Fulham shirt, offering a real attacking threat throughout.

Fulham enjoyed more fortune when North End had a goal chalked off questionably in the tenth minute. Nugent flicked on Daniel Johnson's corner for Sean Maguire to force home at the far post – but the flag went up for offside. Whether the Ireland international had to touch it given Nugent's header might have been heading for the far corner anyway was also open to question, but decision seemed marginal at best. Rodak then fielded a rising drive from Alan Browne as the visitors continued to flood forward in numbers.

Parker's men gradually began to put together some promising football of their own. A looping Knockaert header after some fine approach play by Christie was easy enough for Declan Rudd to field and another intricate move saw Bobby Decordova-Reid skip into space in the box before dragging his shot disappointingly wide.

Preston's ambition was still posing Fulham serious problems. Patrick Bauer headed wide at the far post having remained in an advanced position when a corner wasn't properly cleared and Rodak had to stretch to keep out another Browne shot after a bout of pinball had delivered the ball to the North End skipper. Christie almost broke the deadlock right on half time when he advanced into the area but his low shot across goal was well gathered by Rudd.

Fulham started the second period on the front foot but couldn't really penetrate a resolute Preston defence with a tame header from the well-marshalled Aleksandar Mitrovic representing their only serious chance of the first ten minutes. The goal, when it came, was a complete fluke. Knockaert clipped a corner towards the near post where Nugent was stationed, but the former England international somehow managed to find the top corner with his clearing header.

Fulham then pressed for a crucial second, but despite a number of dangerous crosses nothing materialised. The best opportunities fell at the feet of Christie, who was enjoying an outstanding cameo. He fashioned the first for himself, breaking up a Preston attack on the halfway line and driving deep into North End territory before his shot was deflected behind for a corner. His follow up when the set play landed at his feet flew fractionally over the bar.

Cairney, who enjoyed another excellent game as the orchestrator of Fulham's tempo from a deep midfield position, drove over from distance after space opened up in front of him whilst Cavaleiro, who was anonymous for long periods, slipped at the vital moment as he prepared to the pull trigger having cut inside from the left flank.

Preston piled players forward in search of a late equaliser. They went more direct in the second period but their attacking threat actually diminshed, with their only clear chance coming in the form of another Bauer header from Harrop's free-kick that Rodak had to shovel away from danger. When they won a corner deep into the fourth minute of added time, Preston sent everyone forward only for Johnson's blocked shot to fall for Kamara, who surged clear down the left flank, reaching the penalty area in no time at all. The Frenchman, unlucky not to start after his decisive contribution on Wednesday, sought to play in Cavaleiro, but gobbled up the return pass, powering home at the near post to make sure of the points.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Rodak; Odoi, Bryan (Christie 9), Hector, Ream; Arter (McDonald 90), Cairney, Decordova-Reid; Knockaert (Kamara 78), Cavaleiro, Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Bettinelli, S. Sessegnon, Johansen, Kebano.

GOALS: Nugent (o.g. 58), Kamara (90+5).

PRESTON NORTH END (4-2-3-1): Rudd; Fisher, Hughes, Bauer, Davies; Johnson, Browne; Barkhuizen, Maguire (Sinclair 72), Potts (Harrop 83); Nugent (Stockley 66). Subs (not used): Ripley, Clarke, Huntingdon, Ledson.

REFEREE: David Webb

ATTENDANCE: 19,020.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/02/kamara-clinches-crucial-fulham-win/

[WhiteJC]

Parker praises Fulham's character

Scott Parker praised his side's character after Fulham battled to a vital victory over fellow promotion chasers Preston North End at Craven Cottage this afternoon.

The Whites were made to work hard for the three points. They had to wait until just before the hour to edge in front, when David Nugent headed Anthony Knockaert's corner into his own net. The victory wasn't secured until the final minute of stoppage time when Aboubakar Kamara finished his own swift counter-attack with aplomb.

Parker's men are now six points behind second-placed Leeds, who thrashed Hull in the lunchtime kick-off, and seven off leaders West Brom, who lost at home to Wigan. The Fulham boss is refusing to look too far ahead, however, and wanted to concentrate on the way his side dealt with a strong side from Preston today.

    "I'm pleased about the dogged display. The first 20 minutes we had to weather a storm. Preston had a day extra in their recovery and put pressure on us. I felt that one goal might decide the game and we managed to get that. After that I felt we were in the ascendancy.

    We need to embrace this expectation. If you want to be a top team you need something a bit different, to have character. We're slowly getting there.

    It's always important to win matches – we've come out of a busy schedule and to go into a busy periods with 10 games left it's about our mentality now. West Brom and Leeds have been the best and most consistent in the division. They're top teams and we have them both to play but we need to concentrate first on Bristol City.

    My main focus is to worry about us. This division brings surprises week-in, week-out, so if you look too far ahead you can be jabbed on the nose. I look at my players and we have a bit of belief about us now. The dramatic way we won says that I see a group of players prepared to grind out a result.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/02/parker-praises-fulhams-character/