Thursday fulham Stuff - 14/01/21...

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Results

Wednesday
Man City	1-0	Brighton
Spurs	1-1	Fulham

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Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Fulham

Ivan Cavaleiro's equaliser against Tottenham was just his second goal of the season

Ivan Cavaleiro scored a late header to earn Premier League strugglers Fulham a hard-fought draw against Tottenham in their hastily rearranged London derby.

The Portuguese forward's finish cancelled out Harry Kane's first-half diving header and came just minutes after Son Heung-min hit the post in search of Spurs' second.

Cavaleiro sealed a remarkable turnaround for a side whose manager Scott Parker said it was "scandalous" to be given just two days' notice to face Jose Mourinho's men after Spurs' game at Aston Villa was postponed because of a Covid-19 outbreak in the Villa camp.

Tottenham boss Mourinho had little sympathy for the visitors as the derby itself was a rearranged fixture, having been called off three hours before kick-off when originally scheduled on 30 December.

For all the complications surrounding the fixture, the intensity from two sides at opposite ends of the table was high at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Fulham's fifth successive league draw a valuable point in their efforts to escape the relegation zone.

Fulham extend resolute run
Fulham made a bright start and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa's fierce shot to test Hugo Lloris was a warning of what was to come from a side who remain 18th despite the draw.

The excellent Alphonse Areola twice denied Son in the first 45 minutes, first blocking a toe-poked effort before palming a header away.

Areola could do nothing, however, to deny Kane the opener in the 25th minute, with the striker beating the Frenchman with a thumping diving header from an excellently-placed Sergio Reguilon cross.

Kane was off target with another header and Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Kenny Tete threatened to respond for the visitors, who had the woodwork to thank for denying Son in the second half after the South Korean scuffed a shot past Areola.

Substitute Ademola Lookman was instrumental following his introduction, creating the equaliser for Cavaleiro seven minutes after coming off the bench.

The powerful finish extended Fulham's unbeaten run to five league matches, which is their longest such sequence in the top flight in three Premier League campaigns since 2012-13.

This latest draw highlights just how resolute Parker's men have become after a slow start to the campaign, in which they collected just one point from their first six matches.

Spurs punished for reliance on Kane and Son
While the Cottagers may be in the relegation places and had lost a record 13 successive top-flight matches to London rivals, they presented a significantly sterner test of Mourinho's men than non-league side Marine - a team made up of NHS workers, teachers and a refuse collector - which Spurs cruised past in the third round of the FA Cup on Sunday.

The prolific pair of Kane and Son, a duo that has now scored 23 of Tottenham's 30 league goals this term, were among 10 to return to Spurs' starting line-up.

Son was an unused substitute on their trip to Crosby but Kane, along with Lloris, Eric Dier, Serge Aurier and Harry Winks came back from being rested.

While Kane was clinical with the nodded finish, he reacted in frustration as he flicked another header off target.

That miss, as well as the wastefulness of Reguilon - who sent an early effort over - and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg's tame strike, ensured Fulham were still in it at half-time.

Moussa Sissoko also dithered in the box when an early second-half chance presented itself, allowing Tosin Adarabioyo to superbly block.

Son's effort off the post, and their reliance on him and Kane for goals, ultimately proved costly as Cavaleiro ended the hosts' run of three clean sheets in January.

And while Reguilon did have the ball in the back of the net again for Tottenham in the final minute, it was immediately disallowed for offside as Spurs missed the chance to move up to third in the table.

'Some players had one day's training' - what the managers said
Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho, speaking to BBC Sport: "In the first half Alphonse Areola made some impossible saves, a couple of others in the second, too.

"We have to kill a game and we didn't - but you have to keep a clean sheet, not make mistakes, so it was a very avoidable goal. The markers are there, there wasn't even an advantage in terms of numbers.

"Fulham were intelligent enough to understand the way they play, they change, they become more defensive and they are getting results. I thought they were a bit lucky but they were good.

"We have bad results and we should - and we could have - avoided these results."

Fulham boss Scott Parker, speaking to BBC Sport: "I'm very proud of this team for what we've been through. There's a lot of talk around - everyone assumes about what happened. I know what we've been through the last two weeks.

"We had players out there today who had one day's training. What pleased me most was a desire and a passion and a real quality at times tonight.

"There's a real determination and hard work from this group of players. They've never shied away from anything."

On Monday's announcement of the game with Tottenham: "We were told, in the end, at 9:30. It was put to me on Saturday, if there was a possibility, but I just batted it off thinking 'no chance'.

"This game was supposed to be scheduled 16 days ago - for 10 days some of these boys were locked up in their houses. I was surprised but it wasn't in terms of preparing for this game, we've prepared in two days for a game before, it was more just getting told of the consequences that you face."

Best of the stats
    Tottenham and Fulham played out their first draw in the Premier League since December 2009, with Spurs winning 10 of the last 11 encounters (L1).
    Tottenham are unbeaten in their last eight London derbies in the Premier League (W3 D5), they've never gone longer without defeat against sides from the capital in the competition.
    Fulham have drawn five consecutive Premier League games, their longest such run since January 2007 (six games).
    Fulham have gained five points in their last four Premier League away games (W1 D2 L1), more than they collected in their previous 13 on the road in the competition (W1 D1 L11).
    Only Brighton (12) and Sheffield United (11) have dropped more points from winning positions than Spurs (10) in the Premier League this season.
    Tottenham's Harry Kane has become just the third player to score 25 Premier League goals with his head (25), his right foot (94) and his left foot (34) - after Robbie Fowler and Andy Cole.
    Ademola Lookman has been directly involved in five goals (two goals, three assists) in the Premier League this season, more than any other Fulham player.

What's next?
Tottenham travel to Bramall Lane on Sunday (14:05 GMT) to face the Premier League's bottom side Sheffield United, who on Tuesday earned their first top-flight win of the season.

Fulham face Chelsea in another derby, hosting their west London rivals on Saturday (17:30 GMT).



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/55420342

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Post-Spurs Press Conference

Scott Parker couldn't hide his pride after Fulham put in a wonderful display at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday night.

Playing just two days after learning of the fixture, the Whites took the game to a Spurs side who would have gone third with a win, and ended up with a richly deserved 1-1 draw.

"I thought we were immense tonight," Parker beamed. "To a man we were superb under what we faced, with a lot of speculation, a lot of talk from everyone outside.

"No-one really understood and no-one really knows the full extent of what we've been through.

"We had players out there tonight who've had one day's training after coming back from illness, players in the squad who've had two, three, four days of training.

"Overall I'm very, very proud because of what we faced, but I don't want to lose sight of our bravery, commitment, desire. It was all there, but there was also a real quality.

"I thought we were immense tonight, with the ball, our gameplan, the way we went about it. We caused Spurs a lot of problems.

"Of course you come to this place and you're going to need your 'keeper to pull off a couple of saves, which he did, but for large parts I thought we controlled the game really well and showed some real quality about us."

It was put to the Fulham Head Coach that his players demonstrated a tremendous spirit in the face of adversity.

"We definitely needed that tonight because it's been a tough couple of weeks for us, with 10, 11 positive tests," Parker replied. "It was 14 days ago this game was [originally] scheduled, so we had players who have been in isolation and indoors now for 10 days.

"A game then gets put in our laps on Monday morning at 9.30 so players had to come in and play the game.

"We used that, of course we did, because we felt it was unfair, we didn't think it was right what happened tonight in that sense.

"So certainly yes that helped, but I'm more pleased with the way we played. I thought we played ever so well."

It's five matches unbeaten in the Premier League now for the Whites – a run bettered only by the two Manchester clubs – so is confidence of avoiding relegation growing?

"I think we can [stay up]," Parker said. "I see a team growing, from the start of the season to now, a team that are relentless in their work. Every day we come in, work tirelessly on the training pitch.

"These are players who are engaged, players who want to learn, players who want to be successful. With that, and with that spirit and that hunger to learn and get better, you always have a chance.

"We're going to need that desire, but you also have to show your quality, and I thought we had a real identity about us tonight."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/january/Post-Spurs-Press-Conference/

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Tottenham 1-1 Fulham: Ivan Cavaleiro earns London derby draw to frustrate Spurs



Ivan Cavaleiro cancelled out Harry Kane's first-half header as Fulham battled back to earn a 1-1 draw at Tottenham on Wednesday.

Kane's diving header had looked set to send Spurs within four points of leaders Manchester United, but Cavaleiro scored a header of his own after the break to seal a valuable point.

Parker, who called the short notice of the rearranged fixture match "scandalous", picked nine of the 11 players that played the club's last Premier League game on Boxing Day in a strong XI.

Mourinho had claimed that Parker would owe him an apology if he named a first-choice Fulham lineup, but the coaches seemed in good spirits ahead of kick-off as they embraced.

Spurs had some early chances as Sergio Reguilon fired over and then Alphonse Areola fine saves to deny Son on two occasions.

But the hosts eventually made the breakthrough in the 25th minute as Kane sent a diving header into the bottom corner after a delicious Reguilon cross.

Kane had another chance to double the lead before laying on a golden opportunity for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who shot straight at the goalkeeper, as Spurs had to settle for a 1-0 lead at the break.

The game opened up in the second half as Son wasted a golden chance to make the game safe with 20 minutes remaining, but could only scuff his shot against the post.

Son and Spurs were left to rue that miss as Cavaleiro rose above Eric Dier to head Fulham level with 17 minutes left on the clock.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek had a chance to win the game soon after but Hugo Lloris stopped his shot, while Reguilon had a late effort ruled out for offside as Fulham battled on for a point.

It was another frustrating result for Spurs, who yet again let a lead slip late on, with Mourinho's men dropping eight points from a winning position this season.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/tottenham-vs-fulham-result-premier-league-2021-kane-cavaleiro-b881547.html

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Tottenham held after fighting Fulham show new-found resilience

Tottenham were denied all three points by a spirited Fulham after Ivan Cavaleiro's second-half strike cancelled out Harry Kane's opener.

The contest was played at a brisk pace in the early going, with chances created at either end.

Sergio Reguilon squandered the first major Tottenham chance, blazing over the bar from close range after latching on to his own blocked shot.

Eric Dier appeared to injure himself when stretching to block a cross. The England centre-half gritted his teeth and soldiered on despite appearing to be suffering from a great deal of pain.

Son Heung-min almost broke the deadlock in the 18th minute after prodding a cross towards goal that forced a smart reaction stop from Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.

The pair combined once moments later with Areola again coming out on top, but there was nothing he could do when Harry Kane soon struck.

A sublime cross from Reguilon out on the left picked out Kane in full stride. The centre-forward stooped to steer his header inside the post as a deserved 1-0 lead was taken.

Fulham came close to regaining parity through Ruben Loftus-Cheek, but the midfielder's acrobatic volley flew narrowly wide.

Kane then came close to turning provider when teeing up Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. The Dane's shot lacked power, however, as Spurs settled for a 1-0 lead at the break.

A blistering start to the second-half saw both sides come close through Moussa Sissoko and Bobby Decordova-Reid.

Scott Parker's side were matching their London rivals in the possession department, and were growing in stature as the game wore on.

Ademola Lookman's introduction from the bench brought fresh impetus as Tottenham were forced on to the back foot.

Tottenham remained dangerous on the counter and almost put the game beyond reach through Son.

Slipped in by Tanguy Ndombele, the South Korean raced away before striking the post with his scuffed finish.

That near-miss was punished moments later when Fulham restored parity to the scores.

Lookman left Serge Aurier in his dust down the left before whipping in an inch-perfect delivery for Ivan Cavaleiro.

The Portuguese winger guided his header beyond Hugo Lloris to set up a tense final 15 minutes.

Tottenham were in danger of complete collapse as Lloris showed great speed off his line to smother a Loftus-Cheek effort.

The game became stretched in the final minutes as both sides strove for what would surely be a decisive goal.

Reguilon put the ball past Areola after Son got in behind down the left, but the offside flag came to Fulham's rescue with the forward correctly penalised.

Neither side could ultimately notch a winner ensuring both sides had to settle for a 1-1 draw.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/tottenham-held-draw-1-1-fulham-resilience

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Tottenham 1-1 Fulham: Ivan Cavaleiro earns point for Cottagers as Spurs lose ground at top

Harry Kane's diving header had put Tottenham on course for victory against Fulham but Ivan Cavaleiro's second-half leveller earned the Cottagers a deserved point

Not after Fulham made their point with a battling draw, a performance full of grit and defiance as Tottenham blew the chance to close the gap on the leading pack.

It ended in frustration for Tottenham and Jose Mourinho who, for so long, looked destined to win on the back of a bitter pre-match row about fixture rescheduling.

Harry Kane put Tottenham ahead with his 11th goal of the season but they clearly did not bank on Fulham's resolve as Ivan Cavaleiro's late leveller was no more than they deserved.

Fulham certainly looked fired up by Mourinho's rant that the visitors would owe Tottenham an apology if they fielded a full strength XI.


Cavaleiro celebrates his equaliser (Image: PA)

And it would be foolish to write off Fulham on this evidence because they look a team ready and willing to defy the odds. Written off before the season started, they are still in with a fighting chance.

Parker's complaints about a lack of notice about this game being rearranged did not draw much sympathy as we are in unprecedented Covid times when surely there has to be some give and take.

But maybe, just maybe, Mourinho's words and all that criticism instilled a siege mentality within the Fulham ranks because they dug in, rode their luck and emerged with a precious point in the battle for survival.

Certainly, Tottenham will look back upon the game as two points dropped especially after Heung-Min Son hit the post just two minutes before Cavaleiro's 74th minute winner.

But, in truth, they just could not find an extra gear to kill off Fulham and it was not simply about Mourinho being pragmatic and not chasing the win. They were well and truly pegged back by Fulham and made to defend.

Though it is hard to believe that both Dele Alli and, in particular, Gareth Bale were not brought on. They just sat there, frustrated spectators on the bench. What on earth has gone wrong for Bale who was supposedly going to be a transfer coup and the signing of the season?

It is truly baffling and it is beginning to look like a big money mistake because it was still a deal worth £20m in wages and loan fee.

At least Tottenham did two good deals in the summer as Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, now looking an absolute snip at £15m, and £27m left back Sergio Reguilon combined brilliantly for Kane's 25th minute opener.

Hojbjerg switched the play brilliantly with a fantastic diagonal pass out to the left. Reguilon raced down the flank, put over an inch perfect cross for Kane who stormed into the box and headed powerfully home. What a goal.

But the Fulham collapse never came. And nor did the second Tottenham goal to kill off the game. Harry Winks went close, Kane glanced a half chance over and Son went through only to hit the post with a scuffed finish.

You could sense the frustration on the Tottenham bench because Fulham were pushing hard, pegging the home side back and looking for an equaliser.

Substitute Ademola Lookman gave them pace an edge after coming on and it was his brilliant run down the left, skinning the Spurs defence, which led to the leveller.

Lookman's brilliant cross found a gap in the box and there was Cavaleiro jumping highest to bury a terrific header into the bottom corner beyond Hugo Lloris.

It was not Tottenham being cautious, sitting back. This was Fulham pushing them back. After all the rows and the anger over postponed fixtures because of a coronavirus outbreak, this was Fulham making their point.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/tottenham-1-1-fulham-ivan-23315413

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Tottenham vs Fulham: Five things we learned as Ademola Lookman inspires visitors to a point

Tottenham 1-1 Fulham

Areola keeps Spurs at bay

There were some raised eyebrows when Fulham signed goalkeeper Alphonse Areola late in the transfer window. Marek Rodak had played a big part in getting the club promoted and was seen as a reliable if unspectacular stopper set to continue in the top flight. But the giant French international Areola has proved a serious coup. On loan from Paris Saint-Germain, the 27-year-old previously spent one-season spells away at Lens, Villarreal and most recently Real Madrid, yet he has switched seamlessly from the Bernabeu to the Cottage. Areola's saves here were excellent, particularly in denying Son Heung-min with a close-range header, and he played a pivotal role in keeping Fulham alive when the going got tough. He also bumped up his save percentage, now at 73% and fourth among Premier League goalkeepers this season.

Lookman's transformational presence

Ademola Lookman has been a regular starter in recent weeks but he came off the bench here. Perhaps it was the plan, to save his electric pace and sheer enthusiasm in the final third for late in the day as Tottenham legs tired. If it was Scott Parker's strategy then it was inspired. The winger had an immediate impact and his brilliant assist for Fulham's equaliser, shifting away from Serge Aurier before looping a perfectly weighted cross to the back post, was the crucial chink of quality that they were sorely missing without him on the pitch. The 23-year-old is fast becoming essential to Fulham's survival hopes.

Reguilon delivers

The Premier League is blessed with marauding left-backs, many of whom are beautiful crossers of the ball, the type of player who seems almost a mandatory requirement of any top side right now. At various times this season we've witnessed quality delivery from Andrew Robertson, Ben Chilwell, Lucas Digne and increasingly Luke Shaw too, and Sergio Reguilon is right up there with them among the very best providers from that side. His first-half assist for Harry Kane was surely the cross of the season so far, by any player. Reguilon brought down Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg's long diagonal pass with his first touch and, without breaking stride, curled a perfect ball into the path of Kane who finished with a clinical diving header. He arrived in London on the same plane from Madrid as Gareth Bale, totally overshadowed by the Welshman's return, but Reguilon is fast emerging as one of Spurs' shrewdest signings.

Fulham need more

The reality is that Fulham's plight, sitting 18th in the table with only 12 points from 16 games played, has little to do with games like this one, even if this was a very impressive draw in the end. Instead Scott Parker will be rueing costly draws against teams just above them, most notably the December games against Brighton and Newcastle. Fulham have shown repeatedly that they have the capacity to compete with any side in the division, but they must go further and beat those teams around them to climb out of trouble. Crucial trips to Brighton and West Brom await at the end of the month, but first come two tough home games against Chelsea and Manchester United, where any more points will be a much-welcome bonus.

Mourinho is in business-mode

You can tell Jose Mourinho means business this season when he adopts full mind-games. Pre-match, he talked up the narrative of some agenda against Tottenham with this hastily rearranged fixture, recoiling into his classic territory which builds a siege mentality among his players supposedly fighting against the world. Yet he produced a choreographed hug for Scott Parker before kick-off, having aimed jabs Parker's way in his press conference this week, suggesting a manager who is enjoying the stage. This is the most potent type of Mourinho and his opponents should be worried, even if he didn't get the points he wanted tonight.



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/tottenham/fulham-five-things-we-learned-b1786969.html

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Ivan Cavaleiro's header earns Fulham deserved point at Tottenham


Ivan Cavaleiro heads home Fulham's second-half equaliser. Photograph: Shaun Botterill/EPA

Tottenham refuse to learn their lesson. Once again they allowed a game to slip from their control, failing to build on Harry Kane's early goal and falling into defensive mode. It has become a recurring theme and Spurs ended up paying the price for José Mourinho's conservatism when Fulham, inspired by a thrilling cameo from Ademola Lookman, punished their negative opponents with a deserved equaliser.

Mourinho could not complain about bad luck, even though his side missed a series of outstanding opportunities and had a winner from Sergio Reguilón disallowed for offside. To focus on misfortune and missed chances would be a distraction when the reality is that Spurs, who have won two of their past eight league games, have made a habit of conceding costly late goals.

It happened when they drew with Crystal Palace and Wolves last month, it happened when they lost against Liverpool at Anfield, and it happened again when Ivan Cavaleiro leapt in the 74th minute to haul Fulham level. Spurs had contrived to squander yet another commanding position and although they were top of the league midway through December, they now are six points behind Manchester United in first place.

Although the reliance on Kane and Son Heung-min is a hindrance, the overall mentality is an issue. Spurs did not approach the second half like title contenders. They were quick to retreat and, although Fulham rode their luck at times, Scott Parker's side merited a draw that lifts them two points below Brighton in 17th place.

Fulham, who have two games in hand on Brighton, ran their hearts out and almost snatched a priceless win when Hugo Lloris denied Ruben Loftus‑Cheek. Although they arrived in a funk, seething at being given only two days to prepare after a Covid-19 outbreak forced Aston Villa to postpone their game against Spurs, they responded magnificently.

Parker had called the scheduling scandalous, arguing that Fulham needed more notice from the Premier League. This fixture had originally been postponed on 30 December after Fulham, who also had to call off their trip to Burnley on 3 January, recorded a number of positive coronavirus tests.

Parker had not banked on it being rearranged so quickly; otherwise he would not have played so many of his regulars when his side returned to action against Queens Park Rangers in the third round of the FA Cup last weekend.

Yet perfection is impossible given the sport is playing by the pandemic's rules and Fulham had no choice but to get on with it. Mourinho, who expected Fulham to field a strong side, had dismissed Parker's complaints and Spurs were determined to make their guests suffer during the first half.

Spurs sought to expose Fulham's rustiness, threatening whenever they raised the tempo. Mourinho wanted his full-backs high and wide, attacking the space behind Parker's wing-backs, and whipping in crosses for Kane and Son. The tactic was effective throughout the opening period and it should have led to a goal in the sixth minute, Serge Aurier's cutback reaching Reguilón, who fired over from close range.

Spurs kept cutting through Parker's cautious 3-5-2 system. Alphonse Areola had to be in inspired form in Fulham's goal, twice denying Son. Tosin Adarabioyo was forced into last-ditch action, sliding in to rob Kane, and it was not a surprise when Fulham cracked. Reguilón raided from left-back and delivered a peach of a cross for Kane to head home.

Yet Fulham, who had not played a league game since Boxing Day, refused to lie down. They have developed a solid work ethic under Parker and were diligent in their approach, with Harrison Reed fighting in midfield.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa offered a languid quality on the ball, showing quick feet before testing Lloris. Loftus-Cheek almost equalised and the longer it stayed 1-0, the bolder Fulham became.

Parker saw that Spurs had lost their fluency in midfield. He gambled, introducing Lookman, a livewire on the left. Spurs dropped deeper, relying on counterattacks, their nerves growing when Son hit a post at the end of a swift break.

Fulham saw their chance. Spurs could not contain Lookman, who turned Aurier inside out before crossing for Cavaleiro to score. Fulham, who host Chelsea on Saturday, ended up enjoying their last‑minute invitation to north London.

"People need to understand the predicament we were in," Parker said afterwards. "We are not making it up. We have been very open and had worries for the safety of others too ... we don't need to apologise for anything. I thought we were immense tonight. I was very proud because of what we faced."

Mourinho, meanwhile, was left frustrated by his team's inability to take their chances. "This is the same story basically since the beginning of the season," he added. "Today was a clear situation where we could and should have killed the game in the first half but then you go back to the goals that we concede.

"There are some things [that] have to do with organisation of the team, but other things they have to do with individual skills, individual ability, and it's as simple as that."



https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/jan/13/tottenham-hotspur-fulham-premier-league-match-report

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Ivan Cavaleiro rescues deserved point for Fulham against lacklustre Tottenham

Tottenham 1-1 Fulham: Jose Mourinho's side dominated the first half but failed to take full advantage

A game that Scott Parker is surely now delighted went ahead, and Jose Mourinho must be regretting.

It represented quite a turnaround given the week's events, if not such a turnaround in the match itself. Fulham may have had to come from behind to claim this 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, but they were full value for the point, and probably more. They were just the better side, and look a new team, as Spurs succumbed to what is an all-too-familiar failing. They once again conceded late, having failed to press home. Fulham can really press on from this, especially ahead of games against Chelsea on Saturday and Manchester United on Wednesday.

The games in hand from their recent Covid outbreak - that saw this game rearranged at short notice - mean this point doesn't lift them out of the bottom three, but they look an increasingly better bet to survive, as Spurs continue to make a struggle of getting into the top four.

Ivan Cavaleiro's fine headed goal - which matched Harry Kane's in quality, as it did on the scoreline - prevented the home side from leaping above all of Leicester City, Everton and Manchester City. They stay in sixth.


Fulham celebrate Ivan Cavaleiro's equaliser
(Getty Images)

Just as they did a few weeks ago against Liverpool, meanwhile, Fulham gave a supreme account of themselves against one of the "big six". They are suddenly very awkward opposition for Frank Lampard on Saturday.

Mourinho meanwhile faces increasingly awkward questions about those late goals, and the manner in which they're conceded.

That is already an issue that has been given a lot of coverage, and shouldn't obscure praise for Fulham.

Parker's side once again gave plenty of evidence as to how they've evolved this season. The soft touch of September are now long gone. There is a resilient core to this team, and a bit of spike. It's even arguable that they were already the better team until the Kane goal, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek was probably the best player on the pitch. The midfielder - who Mourinho of course had at Chelsea - was running the game, and making Fulham move impressively. He was naturally at the centre of every attack, putting Bobby Reid through for one effort, before going close himself with an acrobatic volley.

It would have been quite a goal, but also an equaliser, because the problem was that Spurs were already ahead by then.

As has been the case in a fair few games this season, their individual quality told when the collective wasn't at its best. They are just capable of moments like Kane's key goal no matter how they're playing.. And what a goal it was - an under-the-radar contender for goal of the month. It isn't the sort of strike hugely elevated, but part of its glory was its distinctiveness.

You don't get too many like it, and one of the few it felt reminiscent of was Henrik Larsson's brilliant header against Bulgaria for Sweden at Euro 2004.

The finish was almost identical, a flying diving header powering the ball into the corner past the goalkeeper, except Kane's was even harder to get to since it went in off the post. Just like that goal 17 years ago, though, this was more about the divinity of the delivery than the high quality of the header.

It was actually a former Tottenham left-back that supplied that demandingly inviting cross back in 2004 in Erik Edman, and it was an on-loan left-back here.

Sergio Reguilon curled in a ball that was perfect for Kane, and the worst type of delivery to deal with for the defence.

The Spanish international had a contribution almost as important moments later, impressively outsprinting Reid to beat him to the ball and prevent what would have been a one-on-one. This indicated the constant problem for Spurs, though.

Mourinho's side never shut them down, Fulham never went away. They just kept coming, in that creditably persistent manner. It has been a characteristic of their last few months, and ensured they punished a characteristic of Mourinho's last few months: giving away goals late in games.

What made it even worse was that the Portuguese couldn't complain Fulham didn't deserve it. Spurs had their chances - like one Son Heung-Min break - but Parker's side had the better of the play. The very pattern of the game, as much as recent weeks, made it so predictable.

It was also relatively routine, if remarkably executed. Fulham scored a classic header-and-cross goal almost as good as Tottenham's, as substitute Ademola Lookman played in a brilliant ball of his own, for Cavaleiro to score a traditional number-nine header by angling his body to expertly put it into the corner.

That alone was worth the game taking place, but it could now be worth so much more to Fulham. Spurs are meanwhile left with more regrets.



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/tottenham/fulham-result-score-goals-report-b1786980.html

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Tottenham 1-1 Fulham: Spurs can't find a way past Cottagers in dispiriting draw

Blah.

Tottenham made up one of their COVID-delayed matches on Wednesday after the Premier League decided on Monday to reschedule the home match against Fulham that was delayed on December 30. However, although they were hosting a club in the relegation zone, they could not get full points. Harry Kane headed home a gorgeous cross from Sergio Reguilon to put Spurs up 1-0 in the first half, but Tottenham conceded to an equally good cross and header from Ivan Cavaleiro. Spurs couldn't find a winner and could only manage a 1-1 disappointing draw.

Before the match, Spurs journalist Alasdair Gold suggested we could see a "plethora of midfielders" in Tottenham's starting XI. That bore out — Spurs started with Pierre Hojbjerg, Harry Winks, Moussa Sissoko, and Tanguy Ndombele in the midfield, behind Son Heung-Min and Harry Kane. Davinson Sanchez started alongside Eric Dier, with Serge Aurier and Sergio Reguilon at the fullback positions. Hugo Lloris captained the side from goal.

Key Moments
First Half
10' — First half has been pretty much as we expected. Fulham are defending with a back five and are hitting on the counter whenever possible. Spurs having little luck picking that lock thus far.

15' — Eric Dier comes up limping heavily after a challenge by the endline. Fulham have had the bulk of the shots already in this match.

18' — Great chance Tottenham! Good combination between Sissoko and Aurier, Sonny gets a one-touch at goal that's well saved. Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa picks up a yellow for Fulham in the ensuing play.

24' — UGH SO CLOSE. Another great ball into the box from Tanguy and Sonny tries to head it in, but Areola is there to get a hand to it

25' — GOAL! HARRY KANE! Pierre Hojbjerg put a long ball waaaaay out on the left flank to Reguilon, and Reggie puts a cross right to Harry Kane's head, who hammers it past the keeper! 1-0 Spurs!

30' — Oooh, nearly a second for Kane, but his free header goes over the bar. That's their fourth big chance this half and they're still playing football despite having a lead! Is our Mourinho learning?

35' — Nearly an equalizer for Fulham. Loftus-Cheek gets on the end of a cross and volleys a ball that goes inches wide of the post. Hugo looked like he had it covered, but that was a near thing.

40' — Spurs had another chance on a counter, but Hojbjerg's shot is low and easily collected by Areola.

HALFTIME! Spurs have been on the front foot and had several good chances, but Fulham are still a threat and have a few of their own.

Second Half
46' — LMAO Sissoko dribbles into the box and somehow wasn't able to get a shot away from close range.

55' — Close from Harry Winks, who lofts a looping shot from 20 yards out to the top corner and forces a diving save from Areola.

59' — Free kick to Fulham just outside the box after a Hojbjerg foul, but the kick goes right into the wall, danger averted.

64' — Hojbjerg picks up a yellow card for a robust challenge.

68' — First sub of the match, and it's for Fulham: Ademola Lookman is on for Kenny Tete.

72' — ARGH Son plonks a ball off the post on a Spurs counterattack! So close to putting this match away.

73' — Goal to Fulham. Ivanm Cavaleiro equalizers for the Cottagers, heading home a cross from Ademola Lookman. Unreal. Immediate sub for Spurs as Jose Mourinho brings on Erik Lamela for Harry Winks.

78' — Gaah Fulham nearly take the lead from Loftus-Cheek but Lloris slides in to deny the shot.

80' — Mourinho rolls the dice, opts to bring in Carlos Vinicius for Tanguy Ndombele.

86' — Third sub for Fulham, goal-scorer Cavaleiro is off for Aboubakar Kamara.

89' — IT'S IN THE NET! SERGIO REGUILON... but the flag is up. It's not going to count. He's offside.

90' — Sub for Fulham, and it's our old friend Josh Onomah, who's on for Loftus Cheek. Hi, Joshy!

FULL TIME. This one is going to haunt Spurs for a while. They had tons of chances, none better than Son's shot off the post but couldn't get the job done. Disappointing.

Reactions

    These aren't going to be super detailed because I could only sneak glances from the office every so often. I'll rewatch the match later tonight, but consider these broad overview observations.
    Spurs' concession in the second half came not because Mourinho was trying to sit deep and protect a lead — they were pushing forward, but just weren't playing well. Even so, Spurs dominated the xG in this match. It's a completely new and novel way to drop points. At least you can't blame it on parking the bus.
    Tanguy Ndombele is very good at football.
    The first half goal was so good — from PEH's long pass from deep to Reguilon's run into space and perfect cross to Kane's head. Just wonderful stuff.
    Sissoko surprised me not only by playing wide right but also by making several late runs into the box throughout his shift.
    Spurs had chances in this game, they just couldn't convert them. It's no fun to watch when that happens.



https://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com/2021/1/13/22229391/tottenham-1-1-fulham-spurs-cant-find-a-way-past-cottagers-in-dispiriting-draw

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Fulham's Riverside Stand Begins to Take Shape

Huge logistical challenge as sections of the roof are lifted into place


Huge crane lifting part of the roof into place. Picture: Fulham FC

Although not without controversy the new stand at Craven Cottage being built by Fulham FC is an impressive feat of engineering.

Over the last couple of weeks the structure has started to take shape with huge sections of the roof being added.

The new stand will extend nine metres into the river and increase the stadium's capacity to nearly 30,000. The 4,689-seater stand is costing the club £100 million and will include new access along the riverside underneath the stand as well as a new river wall and restaurants and cafes.

Work on the project has continued through lockdown with the engineers making the location by the Thames a benefit rather than a problem. Much of the construction is pre-fabricated off-site and then transported along the Thames with two tugs towing a barge with materials to the site.

55 ton sections of the roof of the stand are being shipped in and then lifted into position by a 400 ton crane.

Marine project manager Paul Day says in a video issued by the club, "We've really taken advantage of the river for a lot of deliveries for this job too, via barge.

"These barges have travelled all the way from the Port of Tilbury, to here, so they've gone through all of central London.

"It's a very big logistical challenge, the first one being the amount of bridges you have to pass. The River Thames is a busy river, so there's a navigational risk, but the real challenge for this project in particular was the overhead clearance (under the bridges for these tows."

It takes a barge two days to pass from Tilbury to Fulham because when the tide is high the vessels can't pass under the bridge.


Visualisation of the completed stand. Picture: Fulham FC

Originally the new stand was due to be opened due the course of the 2021/22 season.



http://www.fulhamsw6.com/default.asp?section=info&page=fulhamfc016.htm

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MARTIN SAMUEL: After Scott Parker moaned about the 'scandalous' late fixture change, Fulham show that short notice is no problem... the Premier League were right to insist this match was played and it was a good night for football

    Fulham were not doomed after being made to play Tottenham at short notice
    They got the point they deserved and justice was done on Wednesday night
    The Premier League have been proved right to insist this match was played
    It turned out to be a good night for football, no matter the initial controversy

So, ultimately, Fulham were not doomed by a rogue executive decision, or the uniquely unfair and haphazard demands of another covid-blighted season.

Good crosses still bring goals. Good headers, too. Put the two together and great things can happen. Fulham got the point they thoroughly deserved, and justice was done.

The Premier League were right to insist this match was played, and Fulham rose to the challenge. It was a good night for football, no matter the initial controversy


Scott Parker's Fulham rose to the challenge after the late fixture change this week

And while they are the first to be called into action at relatively short notice, Fulham will not be the last. Southampton's match with Leeds is the latest fixture to bite the dust – bumped for Southampton's delayed FA Cup fixture with Shrewsbury – and Aston Villa have already requested their game with Everton be rearranged.

As these spare games pile up, so inventive ideas must be entertained to clear the backlog. Playing who you can, when you can, really is the most straightforward solution.

And it is most certainly wasn't scandalous, as Fulham manager Scott Parker suggested. The idea that coaches are such advanced strategists that they require the best part of two weeks to prepare for a single match is relatively new anyway. It dates from season 1991-92, the year before the Premier League began.

Prior to that, games were frequently rearranged between Saturday and midweek. They were called FA Cup replays and for decades they thrived as keenly anticipated occasions in the season, with precisely the turnaround Fulham were given.

And, when that finally changed, it wasn't even football's idea. It was the police that decided they could not control FA Cup replays at less than ten days' notice, which altered the competition and English domestic football forever.


Ivan Cavaleiro is embraced by team-mates after snatching a point for Fulham at Tottenham

As a result of the new restrictions, one replay became the maximum permitted and we have now got it into our heads that a football match is such a complex pursuit it requires the same lead time as the Battle of Midway to make it possible.

Fulham's basic complaint was that they were not told to prepare for a game on Wednesday until Saturday. And while, yes, this is unusual in the Premier League era – like so much this season – it's really no different to an old-fashioned cup replay. It's what happened in every year, and every round, until pretty much the dawn of the Premier League.

Back then, nobody made a fuss. In fact, everybody revelled in the uncertainty – or at least they just got on with it. Notices were put in club programmes telling fans whether the replay would be Tuesday or Wednesday in the event of a draw.

Ticket offices then opened on Sunday to deal with the demand. And then the game went ahead. It wasn't ideal, but it was necessary. Just as last night's pairing was.

And those days produced wonderful entertainment. Season 1988-89 saw the last of the epic FA Cup sagas. Newcastle v Watford, four matches across 11 days watched by more than 90,000 fans.

Newcastle were bottom and fighting relegation while Watford were chasing promotion. Yet both fielded their strongest teams in every game, three of which went to extra time, playing on January 7th, 10th, 16th and 18th – and fitted in a league game each between the meetings, too.

And these sagas were not wholly unusual. In 1979, Arsenal and Sheffield Wednesday met five times across 16 days, in front of 143,916 spectators, including three replays at Leicester's old ground Filbert Street, with 16 goals scored by ten different goalscorers.

An Arsenal supporter living in Highbury would have travelled more than 900 miles to see every match. And that's not even the FA Cup record. Alvechurch and Oxford City in 1971-72 played Saturday, Tuesday, Monday, Wednesday, Saturday, Monday, a total of 11 hours.

Graham Allner, who featured in every minute of it for Alvechurch, said that by the end the two teams were on first name terms and silence punctuated the manager's team talks because there was nothing about the opposition the players did not know.

We think of ourselves and our football as more sophisticated these days, of course.

Take the unnamed Fulham source expressing his outrage in the build-up to this match. 'Scott prepares for games months in advance in terms of loading of players and training,' he said.

Really? Months? Seems a very intensive strategy for two league wins all season. And if he was preparing for Tottenham months ago, why the fuss about the short notice?

The original fixture was only cancelled in December – tactically at least the preparation's long been in the bag. As it seemed.,

Bottom line: get on with it. Nobody wants this disruption, least of all the Premier League, who sell their packages to broadcasters in neat little game-week slices.

And who hasn't had their life disrupted by the pandemic? Whose plans haven't been cancelled? A lot of businesses were not planning on going skint in 2021. At least football is surviving, in one form or another – at least it is striving for solutions.

As for Wednesday night's game, it was a fair result. Fulham got exactly what they deserved because the pitch is where games are won and lost. Not in offices.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9144763/Fulham-short-notice-no-problem-Scott-Parker-Spurs.html

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Fulham find inner steel and style to come back and draw at underwhelming Tottenham


Ivan Cavaleiro celebrates brilliant header that earned Fulham a draw at Tottenham   Credit: SHUTTERSTOCK 

After the war of words, Fulham did their talking on the pitch. Scott Parker and Jose Mourinho had clashed in the build-up to this quickly – too quickly in Parker's view – rearranged fixture but it was Fulham who made their point with a thoroughly deserved point. They probably warranted even more.

For Tottenham this was a familiar story as they failed to take themselves into the top four. Once again they went ahead before, yet again, sitting back and defending, inviting Fulham on as they have done other opponents (West Ham, Wolves etc) to their cost. They have dropped 10 points from winning positions. It is just so wasteful – is it also the best use of their strengths? – and must be infuriating for their fans.

The initiative was surrendered by Mourinho and accepted by a side in the bottom three who were inspired once substitute Ademola Lookman came on. Mourinho had demanded an apology if Parker fielded his full-strength team and the Fulham manager can argue he did not do that until the winger arrived. What a difference he made while Dele Alli and Gareth Bale sat unused on the Spurs bench. Discuss.

It is now six games unbeaten – and five consecutive draws – in the Premier League for Fulham and their admirable young manager while, for Mourinho, there are yet more questions about his approach no matter how much he rails against the criticism. There were fine saves from Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola and missed opportunities – not least from Son Heung-min who struck the post when through on goal just before Fulham scored – but they undeniably sat back and eventually got what they deserved.

In fact that Son chance was the only real threat they posed in the second-half with Sergio Reguilon having a late effort correctly ruled out for offside while Fulham were far more creative and dynamic. How, though, they cry out for a cutting edge to finish off the fine work and organisation Parker has now installed.

Aleksandar Mitrovic was absent, through injury, but he does not appear the answer this season with Parker surely having earned the right to ask for another striker in this January window. Even so Fulham will have those above them in the table twitching nervously if they can sustain this.

The fixture had been postponed from the beginning of the month because of a Covid outbreak in the Fulham camp and shoehorned in after Spurs' encounter with Aston Villa was called off for the same reason with Parker incurring the anger of the Premier League by calling it "scandalous".

Whether he and his players had time enough to prepare they certainly appeared motivated with Mourinho attempting to defuse the pre-match tit-for-tat by seeking Parker out for an embrace in the tunnel.

Unfortunately it was not a socially-distanced encounter while the cordiality was soon shelved. Both managers were desperate to win as shown by their angry reactions as penalty appeals were turned down. Spurs racked up opportunities. And good ones, at that. It appeared to be them against Areola and, for a while, the France international was on top.

There was a superb instinctive save as Son met Serge Aurier's cross at close-range and guided it goalwards with Areola blocking. Then he spectacularly pushed away Son's diving header, one handed.

Finally, though, he was beaten. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg switched the play wonderfully out to Reguilon with a raking 40-yard pass and the left back sent in a measured cross between the Fulham central defenders with Harry Kane throwing himself to bullet a header into the net off the base of the post. Areola was stood rooted. He had no chance.

He would have had little chance, again, if Kane had kept another header down with the striker meeting Aurier's powerful whipped cross. However he could only steer it over the bar from four yards with maybe the pace too much to control. Just as Fulham looked overwhelmed they went close with Ruben Loftus-Cheek acrobatically volleying Kenny Tete's cross. Hugo Lloris was beaten but the ball flew narrowly wide.

Despite the chances Fulham are a different proposition from earlier in the season with Tosin Adarabioyo and Joachim Andersen excelling in a three-man defence that quickly morphs into a back-five. Ahead of them Loftus-Cheek still shows flashes of guile and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa is a formidable presence and so they worked their way back.

The second-half was theirs. Spurs were complacent and Spurs were caught out although it did take the arrival of Lookman to make the decisive difference. He immediately drew a foul and then a sliding block but as Fulham pushed Tanguy Ndombele latched onto a loose ball and sent Son running through. One-on-one he has been unerring this season and although his low shot beat Areola it rebounded off the inside of the post. Son held his head.

How costly would that be? We soon knew. Lookman far too easily beat Davinson Sanchez and crossed with Eric Dier caught out on his heels and Ivan Cavaleiro rising to plant his header past Lloris. It was certainly no less than Fulham deserved and they went closest to winning it when Lookman ran from his own half before slipping the ball through to Loftus-Cheek with Lloris sliding out to divert away his shot on the edge of the six-yard area. At the final whistle Parker, understandably, could not control himself. "Yes, come on!" he screamed. The last word did certainly belong to him and Fulham.



https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2021/01/13/tottenham-hotspur-vs-fulham-premier-league-live-score-latest/

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Tottenham fail to finish off feisty Fulham
It could prove costly for Spurs in their pursuit of Champions League football but this point could be invaluable for the visitors

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 1 (Kane 25) FULHAM 1 (Cavaleiro 70)

Tottenham blew a chance to move back into the top four after being held by a feisty Fulham side, whose late equaliser enhanced their chances of survival.

Harry Kane had headed Jose Mourinho's side ahead midway through the first half, but Fulham fought back to equalise through Ivan Cavaleiro and move a point closer to Brighton, who had earlier lost to Manchester City.

It means Spurs stay sixth, and were made to pay once again for failing to finish off a team from the lower half of the table, after frustrating draws with Newcastle, West Ham, and Wolves.

It could prove costly for Spurs in their pursuit of Champions League football but this point could be invaluable for the visitors.

The background to the game, of course, was Scott Parker's unhappiness at having to play this rearranged fixture at two days' notice, after Tottenham's original date with Aston Villa was postponed because of a coronavirus outbreak at the Midlands club.

Instead Fulham were told to fulfil a fixture that had been postponed from its original date two weeks ago because of Covid-19 in their own camp.

The team Parker fielded had only one change from their previous league game, a goalless draw with Southampton on St Stephen's Day, so the Fulham manager could not have used the excuse that his side was depleted, although the influential Tom Cairney and Alexanxar Mitrovic were still missing.

Fulham made a lively start and could have taken the lead but for two important clearances from Sergio Reguilon, who was impressive throughout.

The Spanish left-back has been fined and forgiven for his lockdown breach over Christmas, and is clearly a key player for this Tottenham side. His right foot and his finishing are not strengths, however, and he missed an early chance to put Spurs ahead when he shot feebly over the bar with his weaker foot from close range.

Parker has sung the praises of his goalkeeper Alphonse Areola more than once this season and the Frenchman, on loan from Paris St Germain, was in sparkling form again, denying Heung Min Son twice in quick succession.

The first was pure reflexes, tipping away a poked shot from the Korean who was barely six yards out. Five minutes later he produced an even better save to divert a close-range header from Son that looked destined for the top corner of goal.

But Areola had no chance when Kane scored a goal of simplicity and brilliance. Pierre Emile Hojbjerg, so influential in the heart of Tottenham's midfield once again, started the move with a diagonal 50-yard pass to the left wing, where Reguilon was advancing at speed. The Spaniard took a touch to control the ball, looked up to see Kane haring into the penalty area, and curled a perfect cross. Kane dived full-length to send a bullet of a header into the net from close range. It took four touches in as many seconds to move the ball from the edge of Tottenham's penalty area to the back of Fulham's net and stunned the visitors.

It was also Kane's 18th goal in 28 games in all competitions this season, a remarkable return. And he should have made it 19 soon afterwards when Serge Aurier drove in a cross from the right, but this time the England captain put his header over the bar from close range.

Fulham tried to hit back. Ruben Loftus-Cheek, on loan from Chelsea, was full of running and sent a volley just wide of the post. Andre Anguissa had two shots saved by Hugo Lloris, and then Reguilon showed his speed in defence by dispossessing Bobby Cordova Reid as the Fulham forward ran in on goal.

Kenny Tete missed a glorious chance to equalise when he blasted into the side-netting from the right of goal after half-time, and he was replaced by Ademola Lookman, who immediately injected an added threat to the Fulham forward line. And it was the young winger's deep cross from the left that allowed Cavaleiro to equalise in the 70th minute.

The Portuguese striker got high above Eric Dier and direct a powerful header past Lloris for his second goal of the season.

Fulham had the equaliser they deserved, and went looking for a winner. Lookman drove at the heart of Tottenham's defence to put Loftus-Cheek in on goal, but Lloris saved well with his legs.

Mourinho responded by sending on Carlos Vinicius, the hat-trick hero of their FA Cup win at Marine on Sunday.

Son put a header wide in a frantic finale, and then thought he had set up Reguilon for a late winner, only to see him flagged offside.

Tottenham (4-2-3-1): Lloris 7; Aurier 6, Sanchez 6, Dier 6, Reguilon 8; Winks 7 (Lamela75), Hojbjerg 8; Sissoko 6, Ndombele 7 (Vinicius 81), Son 7; Kane 7.

Fulham (3-4-3): Areola 9; Tete 6 (Lookman 66), Aina 6, Andersen 6; Adarabioyo 6, Robinson 7, Anguissa 6, Reed 6; Decordova-Reid 6 (Lookman 66), Loftus-Cheek 7, Cavaleiro 7 (Kamara 90).

Ref: Paul Tierney.



https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/soccer/arid-40206716.html

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Albion a point close to the bottom three after Fulham draw with Tottenham

Albion are now just two points above the bottom three after they lost 1-0 against Manchester and Fulham drew 1-1 at Tottenham.

Harry Kane had given Spurs the lead in the 25th minute after Sergio Reguilon's cross was headed in by the Spurs skipper.

Hueng-Min Son then went close to doubling their lead in the 72nd minute after he raced onto Tanguy Ndombele's pass, but his effort hit the post and fell into the arms of Alphonse Areola.

Two minutes later Fulham made him and Spurs pay after Ademola Lookman's cross was headed in by Ivan Cavaleiro.



https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/19009369.albion-point-close-bottom-three-fulham-draw-tottenham/

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Cavaleiro clinches precious point

Jose Mourinho had plenty to say in the build up this game – expecting an apology from Scott Parker, whose rage at the hasty rearrangement of this fixture had generated headlines, if Fulham had fielded anything like a full-strength side. The Tottenham manager might now be demanding an explanation from his players after they surrendered yet another Premier League lead, having been outfought in the second half by Parker's tigerish charges. The visitors fully deserved their first top flight London derby point in nearly seven years, delivered by a thumping Ivan Cavaleiro header after a sparkling bit of wing play from substitute Ademola Lookman.

On this evidence, it is easy to chart a course to safety for Fulham – something you wouldn't have suggested after such a calamitous start to the season. Having battled both coronavirus and the Premier League's intransigence, Parker's team were well-drilled in their now customary 3-4-3, but far from passive in possession. They added a sense of adventure to an intriguing encounter and showed commendable character to shrug off the setback of conceding a brilliant diving header to Harry Kane before regrouping at the interval and dominating a second period that Spurs watched drift by. Parker's changes made a real difference – Lookman added energy and zest, providing the equaliser with a wonderful dart to the byline and a delicious cross, and, Aboubakar Kamara spotted his run in the dying seconds, he may even have pinched a winner.

Fulham made an enterprising start but were perhaps fortunate that Tottenham's clearest early openings fell to Sergio Reguilon, who has still to break his duck for the north London club. The Spaniard might have been surprised to see Son's cross bounce into his path twelve yards out: his first shot was bravely blocked, but his second lacked conviction and flew over the bar. The visitors' eagnerness to make an impression was exemplified by Bobby Decordova-Reid who forced Regulion into a timely block as he surged forward and, after a burst from the returning Kenny Tete, clever feet from by Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa from a well-worked corner drew a sharp save from Hugo Lloris.

Alphonse Areola then made two excellent saves from Son in the space of five minutes. The first was an instinctive reaction save with his legs after the Korean looked certain to open the scoring, guiding home Moussa Sissoko's cross from close range. He did even better shortly afterwards springing to his right to claw Son's header away from the top corner and preserving parity. There was absolutely nothing the French international could do about Tottenham's opener a minute later, however. Regulion whipped in a delicious ball from the left and Kane's flying header arrowed into the bottom corner.

Kane wasn't great as predatory with his next opportunity three minutes later. Tanguy Ndombele and Serge Aurier worked the opening fantastically down the right and, perhaps Kane was put of by the presence of Joachim Andersen in front of him, but the England captain glanced his header well wide of the target this time. Arguably, it was an easier opportunity than the one had he so expertly snaffled up. The goal momentarily jolted Fulham, but Parker's side quickly recovered their composure and they might have been level before the break.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek, too often a brooding presence in midfield for Fulham this season, started and almost finished a flowing move. The Chelsea loanee advanced deep into Tottenham territory and stroked a lovely pass out to Tete down the right. The Dutch wing-back's delivery was sublime and Loftus-Cheek acrobatically swivelled on his volley from fifteen yards, sending it fractionally past the far post. Anguissa's daisycutter was easily handled by Lloris and Spurs, who had marginally shaded the first half, may have had a more considerable advantage had a late chance fell to Son or Kane, who fashioned it, rather than Pierre Emile Højbjerg, whose tame shot with just Areola to beat was almost apologetic.

There was a terrific intensity to the resumption as the action swung from end-to-end. Loftus-Cheek had an effort on goal blocked at source before Toisin Adarabioyo produced a most marvellous moment of defending to diffuse the danger after Sissoko had threatened to dribble his way through the Fulham defence. The calm centre half timed his intervention to perfection and kept Fulham firmly in the contest. If only Tete had shown such composure at the other end instead of lashing into the side netting when found by a gorgeous switch of play from Harrison Reed. Decordova-Reid and Cavaleiro were both in better positions than the full-back, who saw the glory all for himself.

Fulham gradually began to dominate possession and probe patiently outside the Tottenham box, but their football lacked the dynamism or ruthlessness to profit from promising positions. An untimely slip from Ola Aina almost undid all their good work, allowing Ndombele to set Son clear but, for once, the winger's finishing instinct let him down. He scuffed his shot and it bounced back off the post to safety. Parker turned to his bench for the first time, introducing Lookman for the tiring Tete and exhorting his troops for more endeavour from the touchline.

They obliged almost immediately. Lookman had already enlivened the Fulham forward line, winning a dangerous free-kick and forcing an important block from Aurier, before he produced the game's pivotal moment, darting away from Davinson Sanchez and delivering an excellent cross that eluded Eric Dier. Cavaleiro, who had scored just once previously this season, soared majestically and guided his header past Lloris. It was no more than Fulham deserved.

They suddenly looked much more dangerous than their rather generous hosts. Lookman's delightful desire to run at defenders carried him beyond three as he carved out a good opening for Loftus-Cheek, whose stabbed finish was thwarted by a desperate Lloris, and he was left unseen as Kamara surged away down the right in the last minute. A Tottenham winner would have been undeserved and Regulion's injury-time effort was rightly chalked off, with both the full-back and Son in offside positions before the ball ended up in the net.

The usually understated Parker was animated in the build-up and delighted at the final whistle, letting out an audible 'Come on!' as he celebrated with his coaching staff. This was Fulham's first point from a losing position all season – and extended their creditable unbeaten run to six games. As the battle against the drop heats up, Fulham are certainly showing they are up for the fight; in more ways than one.

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR (4-2-3-1): Lloris; Aurier, Reguilon, Sanchez, Dier; Winks (Lamela 75), Højbjerg; Sissoko, Ndombele (Vinicius 81), Son; Kane. Subs (not used): Hart, Alderweireld, Davies, Doherty, Alli, Moura, Bale.

BOOKED: Højbjerg.

GOAL: Kane (24).

FULHAM (3-4-3): Areola; Aina, Adarabioyo, Andersen; Tete (Lookman 67), Robinson, Reed, Anguissa; Loftus-Cheek (Onomah 90), Decordova-Reid, Cavaleiro (Kamara 86). Subs (not used): Rodak, Kongolo, Hector, Ream, Bryan, Kebano.

BOOKED: Anguissa, Andersen.

GOAL: Cavaleiro (74).

REFEREE: Paul Tierney (Lancashire).

VIDEO ASSISTANT REFEREE: Craig Pawson (South Yorkshire).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/01/cavaleiro-clinches-precious-point/

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Honours Ivan: Fulham earn point at Tottenham

Tottenham 1-1 Fulham

IVAN CAVALEIRO'S second-half header earned Fulham a well-deserved 1-1 draw at Tottenham last night in their hastily rearranged fixture.

Cavaleiro's equaliser on 74 minutes cancelled out Harry Kane's first-half diving header as Fulham, who remain third bottom, again showed enough to suggest they can pull away from danger in the coming weeks.

Both managers had stoked the fires in the short build-up after Fulham were brought in as late replacements for Covid-ravaged Aston Villa. Cottagers boss Scott Parker said it was ' scandalous' and 'blatantly wrong' for his team to be asked to play with only 48 hours notice – comments that drew an angry and unsympathetic response from opposite number Jose Mourinho.

In the event the match, originally scheduled for December 30 before the Fulham squad were themselves hit by coronavirus, was played in good spirit.

Alphonse Areola twice saved from Heung-min Son before Kane made the breakthrough after 25 minutes when he headed in Sergio Reguilon's pinpoint cross.

The visitors responded with Ruben Loftus-Cheek volleying just wide and, having enjoyed a let-off when Son struck the post on 71 minutes, levelled when Cavaleiro met substitute Ademola Lookman's cross by planting a header past Hugo Lloris.

The Spurs keeper then saved from Loftus-Cheek before Reguilon's late strike was flagged offside.



https://www.metro.news/honours-ivan-fulham-earn-point-at-tottenham/2293961/

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Mourinho backs much-improved Fulham after derby draw

Jose Mourinho said he was unsurprised by Fulham's spirited display to earn a 1-1 draw against his Tottenham side.

Mourinho was critical of Whites boss Scott Parker's complaints about the match being rearranged only on Monday after it was called off earlier this month due to a Covid-19 outbreak in the Fulham squad.

Parker's team battled hard for a deserved point after fielding a full-strength side, with an Ivan Cavaleiro header equalising Harry Kane's opener.

Mourinho felt the hosts did enough to win the game, but said Fulham showed they have enough quality to stay in the Premier League.

"They started the Premier League in a way that was going to see them relegated," said the Spurs boss.

"But they were intelligent and adopted a different way to change the team and since then they are getting good results.

"I have to believe and I know that the top people at Fulham Football Club that we are dealing with honest people and of course they had problems (with Covid).

"Of course the reason why we didn't play the game when we should have was for a very good reason.

"But the reason why they were not happy to play today is a different question. But in the football world it is difficult to keep secrets.

"Somebody will tell somebody who will tell somebody and we knew for a few days they were ready and had players to come in.

"We knew Mitrovic picked up an injury and was not a Covid situation."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/mourinho-feels-vindicated-but-backs-fulham-to-stay-up

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Tottenham 1-1 Fulham: Cavaleiro earns the Cottagers a point

Ivan Cavaleiro headed home an all-important equaliser for Fulham in their London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.

After Spurs' game with Aston Villa was postponed, the Premier League quickly rearranged this match with the Cottagers, which was originally due to be played on December 30, and Scott Parker described the decision as "scandalous".

It looked like his grievances had foundation as Spurs dominated the first half and led through Harry Kane's first-half header, before a spirited second-half showing from Fulham was rewarded with an Ivan Cavaleiro leveller 16 minutes from time, earning their fifth successive draw as Parker looks to have found a style that could keep his side up.

For Tottenham this was the same old story – a game of early domination, missed chances and ultimately dropped points.

That is six points lost from winning positions just at home this season and that will ultimately cost them any real shot at the Premier League title.

Respect the point! 👌

It's a comeback draw at Spurs as Cav’s header cancels out Kane’s first-half effort. #TOTFUL pic.twitter.com/kXGHsgeOsb

— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) January 13, 2021

Despite his pre-match protestations, Parker was still able to name 10 of the players that played in their last Premier League game back on Boxing Day despite the club's coronavirus outbreak.

They arrived in north London without a defeat in their last four league games where they tightened up at the back significantly.

But it was clear from early on that they would struggle to keep Spurs quiet as the hosts enjoyed some early chances.

Right-back Serge Aurier was enjoying a particularly fruitful night as he was the creator of three brilliant opportunities.

First he crossed for Sergio Reguilon, who fired over at the second attempt, then laid the ball on a plate for Son Heung-min to see a shot saved by Alphonse Areola's legs before again supplying the South Korean, who brought a flying save out of the goalkeeper.

But Areola could only keep Spurs at bay as they eventually made a 25th-minute breakthrough.

This time it was created on the left as Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg's pass set Reguilon free and he delivered the most inviting cross for Kane, who obliged by sending a diving header into the bottom corner.

Kane then surprisingly put an even better chance over the crossbar from another Aurier cross before teeing up Hojbjerg for a golden opportunity only for the Dane to shoot straight at Areola.

Spurs struggled to play with the same verve as before the break but still looked the more likely to add to the scoreline as a surging run into the area by Moussa Sissoko was stopped at the last minute by Tosin Adarabioyo's tackle and then Areola was again called into action to claw away Harry Winks' shot.

As Fulham pushed for an equaliser Spurs sensed opportunities on the break and they had a big moment to make it 2-0 with 20 minutes left.

Son was put through on goal by Tanguy Ndombele for the sort of opportunity he has buried on many occasions this season, but this time he scuffed his shot and it hit the post.

Four minutes later the inevitable happened as Fulham got the equaliser.

Ademola Lookman had made an impact from the bench and he turned Davinson Sanchez before putting in a cross that Cavaleiro powered home.

Fulham were looking the most likely to win it as Hugo Lloris had to keep out Ruben Loftus-Cheek after he was played in by Lookman.

The visitors were grateful for a linesman's flag that ruled out a late Reguilon effort for Spurs, but that would have been harsh on Parker's men.



https://www.football365.com/news/tottenham-1-1-fulham-cavaleiro-earns-the-cottagers-a-point

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Verdict: Fulham battle again – and Lloris has a rival for France place in Areola

Fulham were on a free hit after getting a mere 48 hours to prepare for the game at Spurs.

And did they take advantage? They certainly did!

They ended a pointless 13 London derby games in the top flight to come from behind and draw 1-1.

Ivan Cavaleiro's great header from Ade Lookman's cross cancelled out Harry Kane's terrific nod in the first half.

It was due mainly to a dogged display that saw them refuse to buckle after going behind.

In a very even second half they actually had more chances than the home side, and produced a sixth away point of the season.

Striker still needed

There is still room for improvement.

Scott Parker needs a fast, aggressive forward yesterday.

That mostly ponderous approach to the penalty area by the likes of Cavaleiro was meat and drink to the likes of Spurs for 74 minutes.

No guile, no surprise, and of course, no goals until Cavaleiro, of all people, came up with his first away strike in almost a year.

Contrast with Tottenham, whose wing play and instant delivery into the box caused problems for an hour.

Lookman, who started on the bench, won't be enough, and with Aleksandra Mitrovic hitting blanks, Whites need more threat.

That three-man central defence augmented when Fulham were defending didn't work for the Spurs goal.

When you have a wing-back, Kenny Tete in this case, trying to make up his mind whether to tuck in or go wide, it's always going to be a gamble.

He was a postcode from the fast-moving Sergio Reguilon, who set up a peach of a cross for Kane to plunder.

It's not the first time this season the Whites have allowed others the green, green grass to roam.

Parker wants to beef up the midfield, and you can see his point, but it does leave him vulnerable in defence – especially to speed.

Areola continues to deliver
Am more than happy to sing Alphonse Areola's praises – yet again.

The Fulham keeper's first-half saves from Harry Winks and Son Heung-min in particular, must surely have drawn applause from the other end – or concern.

After all, Hugo Lloris wants to hang on to France's keeper jersey. Areola must surely be getting attention from Didier Deschamps and his coaching staff.

Carry on like this, Alphonse, and you'll give France a major selection headache.

Parker continues to admire Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

Some Fulham fans continue to wonder why.

RLC did OK in fairness, although another yard of speed would have made a big difference.

But he still didn't make another 90 minutes when Josh Onomah came on for a five-minute cameo.

Still, when the alternative is Abou Kamara, fast as a cheetah but not a lot else, you can see why Loftus-Cheek is still a name on the teamsheet.

There was no sign of Tom Cairney or Mario Lemina at Tottenham.

Dangerman Lookman was a substitute, so at the risk of two and two making five, there's more than a hint as to who's been suffering in recent times.

That said, no sign of Mitrovic either – and he did play Saturday.

For the eagle-eyed amongst us, he was feeling and looking a bit stiff at the end of the FA Cup win over QPR.

If he didn't recover from the exertions of 120 minutes, it was probably a mercy to miss this one bearing in mind his wretched form.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/verdict-fulham-battle-again-and-lloris-has-a-rival-for-france-place-in-areola