Sunday Fulham Stuff - 23/04/23...

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Results

Saturday
Fulham	2-1	Leeds
Brentford	1-1	Villa
Palace	0-0	Everton
Leicester	2-1	Wolves
Liverpool	3-2	Forest

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Fulham 2-1 Leeds United

Leeds United have failed to keep a clean sheet in nine matches, since beating Southampton 1-0 on 25 February

Leeds United's hopes of avoiding relegation from the Premier League were dealt another blow as Fulham condemned Javi Gracia's side to a third successive defeat at Craven Cottage.

Second-half goals from Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira proved enough to earn victory for the hosts, who reinforced their bid to seal a top-half finish and climbed one place to ninth.

But the loss means Leeds remain just two points above the relegation places, in 16th, before Everton, Nottingham Forest and Leicester City directly below them play later on Saturday.

A quality first-time finish by Wilson, after Illan Meslier had got an unconvincing hand to Willian's cross, broke the deadlock after 58 minutes.

Pereira then slotted in after Meslier again failed to effectively deal with a cross on a difficult afternoon for the Leeds goalkeeper.

Somewhat belatedly, the two goals eventually sparked Leeds into action, and Joao Palhinha's own goal, after Patrick Bamford had redirected the ball with an outstretched leg, offered Leeds hope with 11 minutes remaining.

But despite a late rally and 10 minutes of stoppage time they were unable to force an equaliser.

"I'm worried about everything," said Gracia, whose Leeds side face a crucial game against Leicester on Tuesday.

"We don't have time, in this moment we can't have doubts. We have to believe and try to do it together."

Meslier errors leave Leeds in perilous position
Leeds desperately needed a response at Craven Cottage after a damaging 6-1 thrashing by Liverpool on Monday, which followed a similarly concerning collapse in a 5-1 loss to Crystal Palace a week earlier.

Gracia's side arrived in London having lost all five of their league games in the capital this season - and fully aware of the importance of a result before their rivals played later in the day.

Having watched his side concede 16 goals in four games so far in April - letting in at least four in their three defeats during that run - the Leeds boss said prior to kick-off that his side had reached a "crucial moment".

However, the visitors were initially tentative in their approach before Fulham forced their hand.

Meslier gave his confidence levels a boost after a torrid night against Liverpool with a superb early save from Tosin Adarabioyo's - albeit offside - header, while Liam Cooper underlined the role he could yet play this season with an assured performance.

However, Meslier's position will come under further scrutiny after the 23-year-old failed to deal with two crosses.

He first misjudged Willian's lifted cross, allowing Wilson to crash in an emphatic strike off the underside of the crossbar, before pushing Antonee Robinson's pass into Pereira's path for an easy finish.

Meslier did make an impressive save to prevent Willian's whipped free-kick finding the top corner, but Leeds' revival proved too little, too late against a Fulham side who have earned a rare comfortable finish to a top-flight campaign.

The hosts, not burdened by relegation pressure and with manager Marco Silva back on the touchline after a two-match ban, made the more purposeful start but struggled to create any clear-cut openings before the break.

That changed in a far more clinical second-half performance which ensured Fulham remain on target to achieve the club's best Premier League total, with them now eight points away from their record tally of 53 in 2008-09 with seven games to play.

"We could have scored even more goals. An own goal gave them belief, but overall we were the best team," said Silva.

"It was a great game for us and we didn't suffer too much in the end. We were the best team and the players deserved it as a group, to win again at home at the Cottage in front of our fans, and we have to keep going."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/65283801

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Post-Leeds Press Conference

Marco Silva would have liked to have seen a more comfortable win this Saturday lunchtime, but was satisfied nonetheless with the victory over Leeds United.

An even first half gave way to a dominant Fulham performance in the second, with efforts from Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira ensuring João Palhinha's own goal was a mere consolation for the visitors.

"Throughout the 99-100 minutes that we played this afternoon, we were the best team on the pitch," Silva said. "First half was much more balanced, definitely.

"Leeds came from two bad results and conceded 11 goals last two games, we knew that we should have control of the game, we planned really well the game to do that, to control that attack line.

"When we had those three players in the attack line, plus Harrison, behind the striker, we knew that we cannot let the game be broken and give them the chance to counter attack or to expose us in some fast attacks.

"We had our chances in some fast attacks but the last decision was not the best, but overall I think it was a balanced first half.

"The second half, we were clearly the best team on the pitch. We adjusted some things at half-time, some positions, some setups in our build up, some adjustments in our attack line as well, with the position of Andreas and Harrison Reed behind the striker. And I think we did it well.

"One of the things that we improved clearly second half, was the moments when they connect direct with the striker or the wingers, when we won our second balls. The two goals from ourselves started from that moment where we did well on the second ball, and after our quality came on top.

"We did really well for the first two goals – great finish from Harry, and after the moment from Andreas. Of course, we wish we could have scored even more goals, because we had two crossbars and more chances in the second half.

"It probably was a game for us to not suffer too much in the end, but the own goal gave them the belief. But overall, we were the best team, the players deserve to have this good feeling again to win at home at the Cottage with our fans, and we have to keep going."

The icing on the cake was a return to action for Neeskens Kebano, who came on in stoppage time after six months out with an Achilles injury.

"Firstly, I'm really pleased for him," Silva stated. "As you know, he is a popular guy in our football club, in our dressing room.

"When you have a player like him, always with a smile on his face, always in a good mood, it doesn't matter if he got a bad injury or if he's out two or three months, if he's playing or not, he's always in a good mood. And I like people like that. This is the first thing.

"He helped us really well last season, beginning of this season he was one of the players that started the season in the starting XI, and I'm pleased for him."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/april/22/post-leeds-press-conference/

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Fulham 2-1 Leeds

Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira were on target as Fulham made it consecutive victories with a 2-1 win over Leeds United.

The first half was low on clear cut openings, and it was arguably the visitors who went the closest when Bernd Leno repelled Marc Roca's free-kick.

The second 45 was a much livelier affair, with Wilson's venomous volley and Andreas' tap-in putting us in the driving seat.

A João Palhinha own goal ensured a nervy finale, but the Whites professionally and patiently saw the game out to secure a first home win since February – against the same opposition.

Marco Silva was forced into one change from the side that defeated Everton last time out. Daniel James was ineligible to feature against his parent club, so Bobby De Cordova-Reid was drafted into the false nine role, while there was a welcome return for Neeskens Kebano on the bench.

Fulham made a strong start to the game but could have found ourselves behind shortly after the quarter hour mark, had it not been for a spectacular Leno save which kept out Roca's firmly hit free-kick.

Having shipped 11 goals in their previous two outings, Leeds were putting plenty of emphasis on keeping things tight, and they were doing a good job of it, too, with Andreas' off target dipper in the 33rd minute a rare sighting of goal.

That did, though, prompt a little more urgency from the Whites, with Willian seeing an effort well blocked by Liam Cooper before Andreas drew a save from Illan Meslier, who then was alert to deny the Fulham man again as he tried to catch him out direct from a corner.

The second half began promisingly, with a quick Kenny Tete free-kick switching play to find Willian on the left, after which he skipped beyond two challenges before seeing his shot deflect marginally wide.

A brilliant run from Wilson, interchanged with a neat one-two with Harrison Reed, almost led to a clear sight of goal, but for a brilliant last ditch tackle by Liam Cooper.

The winger could not be kept at bay for long, though, lashing Fulham in front via the crossbar just before the hour mark with a wonderful volley after Meslier slapped Willian's floated cross straight into his path. It came about following terrific work through the centre of the pitch by Antonee Robinson.

It had been some time since Leeds had got near the Fulham area, but Crysencio Summerville sent a warning shot into the side-netting, leading to cheers from the away fans behind the goal who thought it had gone in.

Andreas must have thought he'd doubled the advantage when he caught his 20-yard free-kick perfectly, but it smacked against the crossbar with Meslier well beaten.

The Leeds number one was having an unfortunate time of it, and later had a hand in our second. Again it was terrific work from Robinson, whose cross was palmed by Meslier straight into the path of Andreas, who will not score an easier goal throughout the rest of his career, smashing into the empty net from a couple of yards out.

Leno had needed to be alert on several occasions to mop up some through balls into the box, and he continued his good form on 78 minutes by tipping Roca's fierce strike over the bar.

United did manage to pull a scruffy goal back soon after when the ball fell kindly for substitute Patrick Bamford, who saw his flick divert in via Palhinha.

The Whites came agonisingly close to restoring our two-goal lead immediately through Willian's free-kick, but Meslier made a fine fingertip stop to push it onto the bar, before scooping the ball away before Andreas could tuck home the rebound.

There was dismay when eight minutes of time were added on at the end – 10 actually ended up being played – but thankfully the most notable action it saw was the return of Kebano who came on to a lovely ovation, to cap a great lunchtime by the banks of the Thames.
Fulham FC: Leno, Tete, Tosin, Ream, Antonee Robinson, Reed (Lukić 82'), João Palhinha, Wilson (Solomon 86'), Andreas Pereira (Cairney 86'), Willian (Kebano 94'), De Cordova-Reid (Carlos Vinícius 82')

Subs: Rodák, Duffy, Kebano, Cairney, Solomon, Cédric Soares, Lukić, Carlos Vinícius, Diop

Leeds: Meslier, Kristensen, Koch, Cooper, Wöber, Roca, McKennie (Forshaw 80'), Summerville, Aaronson (Sinisterra 65'), Harrison (Gnonto 80'), Rodrigo (Bamford 65')

Subs: Ayling, Firpo, Forshaw, Bamford, Struijk, Robles, Sinisterra, Rutter, Gnonto



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/april/22/fulham-2-1-leeds/

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Explained: Why Bernd Leno wasn't penalised for picking up apparent back pass from Fulham team-mate Tim Ream as new angle shows Leeds player DID get a touch

Fulham had appeared to go unpunished after Bernd Leno picked up Tim Ream's back pass but a new TV angle showed that Rodrygo got a touch on the ball.

    Ream passed back to the Fulham goalkeeper
    Leno picked up the ball but wasn't penalised
    New angle showed Rodrygo got a touch

WHAT HAPPENED? In what had initially appeared to be a monumental error by referee Peter Bankes and his officiating team, Leno picked up the ball during the Premier League clash between Fulham and Leeds after United States defender Ream had played it back to him. There was confusion as to why an indirect free-kick wasn't awarded, but a new camera angle emerged at half-time to prove the officials were right to wave play on.

Must have missed that 😅

Back pass to Leno there...surely 😬 pic.twitter.com/cY6dynRKPw

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 22, 2023

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Goalkeepers are not allowed to pick the ball up in their box when a team-mate kicks it to them, with that rule having been in place since 1992. The new angle clears up why a free-kick wasn't given, however, and explains why Leeds' players didn't appeal to the match officials.

WHAT NEXT? After Saturday's game, Fulham will take on Aston Villa on Tuesday while Leeds will face Leicester on the same day.


https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/watch-bernd-leno-picks-up-back-pass-fulham-tim-ream-referee/blt14fe76af74b30764

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Fulham pounce on Meslier mishaps to beat Leeds for a third time this season

Fulham (0) 2 Wilson 58, Pereira 72

Leeds united (0) 1 Palhinha og 79

 

Lunchtime kick-offs. Sometimes they are good. Often, they are not. But at least Fulham did enough to secure a win as a follow-up to last week's highly-encouraging victory at Everton.

Two mistakes from Leeds keeper Illan Meslier in the second half ushered in another win for the Whites, who put the visitors out of the FA Cup at the Cottage not too long ago, having won 3-2 at Elland Road earlier in the season.

Harry Wilson was the first to profit from a mistake by Meslier to spark a hitherto dull game into life.

The Leeds keeper flapped at a Willian cross to offer up a free hit for the Fulham winger and he duly dispatched via the underside of the crossbar.

Unblocked after their mostly constipated first-half display, the Whites now finally sensed they ought to be doing to Leeds what Palace and Liverpool had done in recent games and that is score a goal or two against them. 

The relegation-threatened Yorkshire outfit had shipped 11 goals in their previous two home games.

And from a cross by Antonee Robinson, Meslier only succeeded in palming the ball out to a lurking Andreas Pereira, who was able to virtually walk the ball home.

It took an age for Bernd Leno to be called into action but moments after tipping over a shot from Marc Roca he was beaten by a flick from Patrick Bamford – deflecting off Joaoa Palhinha - during a goalmouth melee.

Meslier went some way to atoning for his errors by athletically tipping a curled Willian free-kick onto the bar, but it did not quite rescue his day.

This was a game Fulham badly needed to win to maintain interest in European qualification, but Leeds' need for points to avoid the drop seemed to trump that in terms of effort and focus in the first half.

Not that this translated into a plethora of clear-cut chances. The opening half was bereft of such moments. 

Palhinha looked off the pace and picked up an 11th booking of the season for a clumsy challenge – only Newcastle's Joelinton can match that Premier League high for the season.

But it all turned out Ok for the Cottagers in the end.

Whites: (4-2-3-1) Leno – Tete, Tosin, Ream, Robinson – Reed (Lukic 82), Palhinha – Wlson (Solomon 86), Pereira (Cairney 86), Willian (Kebano 90) – Decordova-Reid (Vinicius 82). Subs not used: Rodak, Duffy, Soares, Diop

Leeds: (4-2-3-1) Meslier – Kristensen, Koch, Cooper, Wober – McKennie (Forshaw 80), Roca – Harrison (Gnonto 80), Aaronson (Sinisterra 65), Summerville – Rodrigo (Bamford 65). Subs not used: Robles, Ayling, Firpo, Struijk

Attendance: 24,488



https://www.capitalfootball.co.uk/single-post/fulham-pounce-on-meslier-mishaps-to-beat-leeds-for-a-third-time-this-season

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Fulham beat Leeds to make it back-to-back wins

Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira scored as Fulham won their second game on the bounce.

The sides played out a scoreless first half which lacked quality, with the most notable chance falling to Tosin Adarabioyo, who saw his header saved well by Illan Meslier.

The second half saw the game open up a bit more, with Wilson opening the scoring with a first-time finish after Meslier made a mess of a tame Willian cross on 58 minutes.

Pereira was unlucky to see his brilliant free-kick canon off the crossbar after Wilson was cynically taken down by Maximilian Wober at the edge of the penalty area shortly afterwards.

But the Brazilian was smiling a few minutes later, as Meslier once again limply palmed a cross into trouble, with Pereira on hand for a tap-in to make it 2-0 on 72 minutes.

Patrick Bamford had an impact off the bench, halving the deficit five minutes after Fulham's second, with a scramble in the box leading to the Leeds forward flicking the ball onto Joao Palhinha and into the net.

Meslier made amends for earlier mistakes with ten minutes left, somehow clawing Willian's free-kick onto the bar and smothering the follow-up.

Fulham held on for all three points despite eight minutes of stoppage time and late Leeds pressure.

The Whites face Aston Villa next on Tuesday evening.
Fulham: Leno, Tete, Adarabioyo, Ream (C), Robinson, Reed, Palinha, Wilson (Solomon, 85′) Pereira (Tom Cairney, 85′), Willian (Kebano, 90+2′), De Cordova-Reid (Vinicius, 81′)



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-beat-leeds-to-make-it-back-to-back-wins

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Fulham 2-1 Leeds: Illan Meslier has a day to forget after TWO costly errors hand Cottagers all three points... with the state of emergency over relegation growing in Yorkshire

    After a frustrating first half, Wilson broke the deadlock after Meslier's mistake
    Pereira doubled the home's sides lead after a classy cross from Willian
    Bamford pulled one back for Leeds but were unable to overturn Cottagers

Travelling Leeds fans chanted 'Sack the Board' after two more blunders by goalkeeper Illan Meslier left the club in deep relegation trouble.

Meslier, selected by manager Javier Gracia despite conceding 11 goals in his previous two home games, performed well for an hour before he needlessly palmed a Willian cross into the path of Harry Wilson for the breakthrough goal.

For an encore, the young Frenchman then made the same mistake for a copycat second. This time Antonee Robinson's centre was diverted by a diving Meslier straight to Andreas Pereira who let the ball hit him and roll over the line.

The double setback was greeted badly by Leeds supporters who sang the name of former manager Marcelo Bielsa and called for Director of Football Victor Orta to 'get out of our club'.

For Fulham it was another happy afternoon watched on by owner Shahid Khan as they close in on a record Premier League points total which currently stands at 53, though Leeds made it a nervy finish when Patrick Bamford pulled back a late consolation.


Fulham claimed all three points, putting them in striking distance of their record Premier League points total with six games left to play

Gracia responded to the 6-1 mauling against Liverpool by recalling skipper Liam Cooper for his first start since February though Italian international Wilfried Gnonto was again surprisingly on the bench,

Fulham used Bobby De Cordova-Reid as a false nine with Aleksandr Mitrovic continuing to serve and eight-match ban for pushing referee Chris Kavanagh.

Leeds were in feisty mood and glad that referee Peter Bankes was in lenient mood, letting off Max Wober and Marc Roca for late tackles before finally brandishing a yellow when Fulham's Joao Palhinha chopped down Crysencio Summervile.

Fulham 'keeper Bernd Leno palmed away Roca's curler heading towards the top corner while Meslier received a confidence boost with a hat-trick of saves to deny Pereira, including a fist off the line when the Brazilian's corner threatened to curl straight in.
 

Harry Wilson broke the deadlock after receiving a literal helping hand from Meslier
 

Andreas Pereira's second doubled Fulham's lead as the side grew in class and confidence
 

Fulham's second goal exposed woeful holes in Leeds' shaky backline in the second half
 

But Bernd Leno was tested at the other end as Leeds sought their way into the game

But it all started to go horribly wrong for him after 58 minutes. Willian's cross from the left flank would have been harmless if left alone because Fulham didn't have anyone at the far post.

But a jittery Mesliers stretched to divert the ball into the path of Harry Wilson who adjusted his body position and hooked in from eight yards.

That was the second consecutive game in which the Wales international has scored and Fulham doubled their advantage after 72 minutes having already struck the crossbar through Pereria's free-kick.

Robinson was allowed to cross from the same position Willian had done and Meslier dived to put the ball on a plate for Pereira.

By that stage Bamford had been brought on from the bench and his poacher's instinct helped the visitors reduce arrears after 79 minutes though the final touch came of Palhinha.


Meslier did make some fine saves as Fulham put Leeds under the cosh for chunks of the game
 

Fulham look sure to go level or better Roy Hodgson's 2008/09 points total of 53 this season

Crysencio Summerville's initial dig in the area was blocked and Bamford reacted first to poke the rebound in off the unfortunate Fulham midfielder.

Gnonto was immediately summoned by Gracia though Leeds fans had wanted the winger on a lot earlier.

Fulham thought they'd scored a third when Willian's free-kick was brilliantly tipped onto the woodwork by Meslier. But with still only one goal in it, the signal for eight minutes of injury-time increased the urgency in Leeds ranks – aware they hover just aware they hover just above the relegation zone

The final whistle confirmed Fulham's third win this season against the same opposition and there was a standing ovation for late substitute Neeskens Kebano as he returned for his first action since October with an Achilles injury.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12001863/FULHAM-2-1-LEEDS-Ilan-Meslier-day-forget-two-costly-errors-hand-Fulham-win-home.html

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Wilson, Pereira goals give Fulham win over struggling Leeds

LONDON, April 22 — Goals from Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira handed Fulham a 2-1 victory over Leeds United at Craven Cottage today, denting the visitors' Premier League survival hopes and cementing the west London side's position in the top half of the table. Chances were few and far between in a quiet first half, with Leeds' Marc Roca forcing a good save by goalkeeper Bernd Leno from a free kick and Fulham's best opportunities falling to Pereira from long range.

Fulham took the lead in the 58th minute with a powerful finish from Harry Wilson after Leeds keeper Illan Meslier parried a Willian cross into the Welsh forward's path.

Fulham's second came in similar fashion. Meslier could only divert a cross from left back Antonee Robinson into Pereira's path and the midfielder lashed the ball into the unguarded net.

Leeds' consolation came in the 79th when substitute Patrick Bamford turned the ball forward after a ricochet in the area before Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha put it into his own net.

Fulham have moved up to ninth on 45 points, while Leeds stayed in 16th with 29, two points above the relegation zone. — Reuters



https://www.malaymail.com/news/sports/2023/04/22/wilson-pereira-goals-give-fulham-win-over-struggling-leeds/65992

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Leeds' relegation fears deepen after 2-1 Premier League defeat at Fulham

Leeds continued their slide towards the Premier League relegation zone as Fulham secured a third victory against the Yorkshire club this season.

Having gone into the game hoping to bounce back from 5-1 and 6-1 home defeats to Crystal Palace and Liverpool respectively, Leeds were unable to impose themselves as they fell to defeat.

After a lacklustre first half at Craven Cottage, Fulham found the breakthrough with Harry Wilson continuing his return to form with a second goal in as many games with a well-timed 58th-minute volley.

Andreas Pereira doubled Fulham's lead after Illan Meslier came for a cross but was unable to clear, with the ball falling for the unmarked 27-year-old just five yards out.

Leeds pulled one back with 11 minutes to go to inject life into their performance, as Patrick Bamford's effort was deflected into the back of the net off Joao Palhinha.

The visitors tried to push for an equaliser but, despite a significantly improved performance than in the previous 80 minutes, they were unable to level the game.

Fulham gave away a few needless fouls in the early part of the match, including one just outside the box, which almost led to Leeds' opener.

Marc Roca curled the ball towards the far corner, with Bernd Leno making his first save of the match.

The first half lacked intensity, despite Leeds' perilous position and the fact they conceded 11 goals in their last two matches.

Chances were limited throughout the opening period with Pereira resorting to trying his luck from distance just before the break, but his drive was straight at Meslier.

There was a slight increase in pace at the start of the second half, with Willian firing just wide for Fulham in the 49th minute.

Fulham found the breakthrough on 58 minutes when Antonee Robinson drove down the middle before playing in Willian down the left. The Brazilian's cross was tipped straight into the path of Wilson who volleyed home.

The goal sparked the Cottagers into life as they looked to inflict further misery on Leeds, with Pereira's direct free-kick rebounding off the crossbar just after the hour mark.

Fulham doubled their lead in the 71st minute. Pereira started the move before Robinson's cross was not dealt with by Meslier, and no one was picking up the Brazil international who fired into the back of an empty net from five yards.

Leeds pulled one back to set up an exciting finish to the encounter when Bamford's flick at the far post was deflected into his own net by Palhinha.

Despite eight minutes added on, Fulham – who also beat Leeds 2-0 in the FA Cup fifth round in February – secured a Premier League double over the struggling Whites.



https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2023/0422/1378489-leeds-relegation-fears-deepen-with-defeat-at-fulham/

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Fulham v Leeds ratings: Willian 8, Pereira 7; Meslier 4, McKennie 5
Second-half goals from Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira lifted Fulham up to ninth to keep Marco Silva's men in the hunt for European football

Leeds United's woeful week was compounded by a 2-1 defeat at Fulham on Saturday that leaves them still perilously poised just above the Premier League relegation zone.

Second-half goals from Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira lifted Fulham up to ninth to keep Marco Silva's men in the hunt for European football.

Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha was credited with an own goal following a goalmouth scramble.

By contrast, Leeds had shipped 11 goals in losing their two previous games to Crystal Palace and Liverpool and there was little sign of a revival despite a more competitive scoreline.

Leeds remain two points above the drop zone, but have played a game more than the three sides directly below them.



https://www.thenationalnews.com/sport/football/2023/04/22/fulham-v-leeds-ratings-willian-8-pereira-7-meslier-4-mckennie-5/

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Fulham edge out doomed Leeds on yet another day Illan Meslier would rather forget

Two goalkeeping flaps handed Fulham a 2-1 win against Leeds in the lunchtime kick-off, keeping the visitors deep in the mire at the foot of the table.

Considering some of the apocalyptic pre-season predictions that were made for them, it's reasonable to say that Fulham have had a decent enough season back in the Premier League. Relegation was never a serious proposal, talismanic striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has demonstrated that he does know the way to goal in this division, and manager Marco Silva has found his stock rising as they held their own in the top flight. It has sometimes felt that Fulham have even been somewhat overlooked.

But at the same time, the banks of the River Thames have not been an especially happy place over the last few weeks. Hopes of European football for next season faded with a run of just two wins in 10 games from the middle of March and, with Premier League safety assured, it has been suggested that they may be the team most likely to turn out for their remaining matches carrying beach towels and with a straw donkey under one arm.

Doctor Everton was on hand in their last game to provide them with a little pain relief, but Fulham have been playing as though they already have one eye on the end of May.

And the issues at Craven Cottage run somewhat deeper than the team's tail-off as winter turned to spring. The recent announcement of huge season ticket increases for the start of next season has enraged a fan base which isn't usually the most animated, and rightly so. The headlines were made by a £3,000 season ticket to sit in the new (and still not quite completed) Riverside Stand, but increases across the board of between 16% and 22% have angered supporters, with the Fulham Supporters Trust – who were not even consulted over the increases – describing them as "draconian". This hasn't been the first time that owner Shahid Khan has been controversial with his ticket pricing policies.

At least Fulham can guarantee Premier League football for next season. Leeds United certainly can't, and a bad result in this lunchtime fixture combined with the 3pm kick-offs going against them might easily see them fall back into the bottom three, with time now really starting to run out to save their season. Following up a 5-1 home defeat against Crystal Palace by losing 6-1 at home to Liverpool couldn't have been timed much worse. These two results felt like a hammer blow.

At least, they may have consoled themselves, they wouldn't be facing Mitrovic, who's now halfway through the eight-game ban that he earned for losing his rag in the most extradordinary manner as Fulham crashed out of the FA Cup at Manchester United last month.

As so often happens with a Saturday lunchtime kick-off, it felt throughout the opening exchanges as though most of the players could have done with an extra hour in bed. Passing was sloppy and chances were limited, to the point that arguably the biggest moment of the whole half came when it looked as though the match officials had missed Brend Leno picking up what looked from a distance like a clear back pass.

No-one in the stadium reacted to this at all – it might have been understandable had Fulham supporters seen it but collectively decided that keeping mum would be their best course of action – and the game continued as if it was 1991 all over again. It was only upon viewing it from a reverse angle that it became evident the pass had scraped the studs of an oncoming attacker as it ran through to the goalkeeper.

This was one of the rare highlights of a fairly undistinguished first 45 minutes.

If it had felt somewhat unusual that a Leeds defence that had conceded four, five and six goals in their last three defeats had appeared so unthreatened throughout the first half, it didn't take long in the second before they were breached. Illan Meslier is a decent young goalkeeper, but it's unlikely that he'll be wanting to watch this match back after his feeble paw at a cross resulted in the ball falling at the feet of Harry Wilson who, with the first serious moment of Premier League quality of the afternoon, lashed in off the underside of the crossbar to put the home side in front. Meslier's contribution to it all was rather more in keeping with the previous 56 minutes.

Five minutes later, Andreas Pereira rattled the Leeds crossbar from a free-kick on the right-hand side of the penalty area. Changes finally started to come. If Javi Gracia's intention had been to keep it tight and try to nick a goal on the break, well, they hadn't looked much like nicking one on the break all afternoon, while Meslier's moment of feeble-wristedness had driven a stake through that whole defensive plan.

Patrick Bamford and Luis Sinisterra came on for the ineffective Brenden Aaronson and Rodrigo. But with 20 minutes to play Fulham were 2-0 up.

It was a very similar goal to the first one. Again, Fulham spread the ball out to their left because there seemed little likelihood of a solid challenge preventing a cross. Again, Meslier made a hash of his attempted clearance, this time with a dive that looked more like a sack of potatoes toppling over sideways than an elite-level athlete performing at the peak of his abilities. And again a Fulham player – Pereira, on this occasion – was on hand to take advantage to double his team's lead.

Game, set and match? Not quite. Six minutes later, Bamford, whose introduction from the bench had finally breathed a little life back into Leeds', pulled a goal back with a scrappy finish given as an own goal after a deflection off Joao Palhinha. But still, they couldn't quite get onto the smothering front foot that they needed to haul their way back into the match. Meslier redeemed himself by pushing Willian's shot onto the inside of the post and then swatting the rebound clear. But even with nine minutes of stoppage-time at the end of it all, Leeds seldom looked like scoring a second as Fulham shut up shop and ran down the clock for the win.

The good news for Leeds is that Everton and Nottingham Forest failed to take advantage in the 3pm kick-offs; the bad news is that Leicester did, beating Wolves. Those results leave Leeds in 16th but the gap to the bottom three is a single point – and being dependent on teams failing to win to protect their position is not ideal in any case.

This particular defeat was to a great extent self-inflicted. Leeds had considerably more to play for than Fulham did in this match, but if this is all they've got against a team that is comfortable in mid-table and with little to play for, you can only start to wonder where the points required to keep them up are going to come from. Their next home match against Leicester City on Tuesday looks even more win or bust than it did before.



https://www.football365.com/news/opinion-fulham-edge-out-leeds-meslier-forget-gracia-relegation

[WhiteJC]

Fulham deepen Leeds relegation fears as Illan Meslier's struggles continue

French goalkeeper commits two more high-profile errors in another costly loss at Craven Cottage

Leeds continued their slide towards the Premier League relegation zone as Fulham secured a third victory against the Yorkshire club this season.

Having gone into the game hoping to bounce back from 5-1 and 6-1 home defeats to Crystal Palace and Liverpool respectively, Leeds were unable to impose themselves as they fell to a 2-1 loss.

After a lacklustre first half at Craven Cottage, Fulham found the breakthrough with Harry Wilson continuing his return to form with a second goal in as many games with a well-timed 58th-minute volley.

Andreas Pereira doubled Fulham's lead after Illan Meslier came for a cross but was unable to clear, with the ball falling for the unmarked 27-year-old just five yards out.

Leeds pulled one back with 11 minutes to go to inject life into their performance, as Patrick Bamford's effort was deflected into the back of the net off Joao Palhinha.

The visitors tried to push for an equaliser but, despite a significantly improved performance than in the previous 80 minutes, they were unable to level the game.

Fulham gave away a few needless fouls in the early part of the match, including one just outside the box, which almost led to Leeds' opener.

Marc Roca curled the ball towards the far corner, with Bernd Leno making his first save of the match.

The first half lacked intensity, despite Leeds' perilous position and the fact they conceded 11 goals in their last two matches.

Chances were limited throughout the opening period with Pereira resorting to trying his luck from distance just before the break, but his drive was straight at Meslier.

There was a slight increase in pace at the start of the second half, with Willian firing just wide for Fulham in the 49th minute.

After a slightly lacklustre performance, Fulham found the breakthrough in the 58th minute.

Antonee Robinson drove down the middle, before playing in Willian down the left. The Brazilian's cross was tipped straight into the path of Wilson who volleyed home.

The goal sparked the Cottagers into life as they looked to inflict further misery on Leeds, with Pereira's direct free-kick rebounding off the crossbar just after the hour mark.

Fulham doubled their lead in the 71st minute. Pereira started the move before Robinson's cross was not dealt with by Meslier, and no one was picking up the Brazil international who fired into the back of an empty net from five yards.

Leeds pulled one back to set up an exciting finish to the encounter when Bamford's flick at the far post was deflected into his own net by Palhinha.

Despite eight minutes added on, Fulham - who also beat Leeds 2-0 in the FA Cup fifth round in February - secured a Premier League double over the struggling Whites.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-leeds-result-illan-meslier-b1076015.html

[WhiteJC]

He Had Leeds United Star On Toast All Day – Former Top Flight Man On Fulham Attacker

Former top flight defender Scott Minto thinks that Fulham winger Willian had Leeds United full-back Rasmus Kristensen "on toast" during the clash between the two clubs at Craven Cottage.

Leeds' hopes of Premier League survival suffered another blow at Fulham on Saturday afternoon as the Cottagers eased to a 2-1 win on home turf.

Former Arsenal man Willian was in fine form throughout and gave Leeds' backline, not least Kristensen, a torrid afternoon.

Minto, watching on, was quick to name Willian has his Man of the Match in the game and feels he clearly got the better of Kristensen, having the Leeds defender on toast.

"I'm going to give it to Willian", Minto explained on talkSPORT just after the final whistle.

I talked about him all game, really intelligent. Despite the age that he's at, he's playing like he's 20 years of age.

"Stayed on the left. That cross-field pass was always coming to him.

"Kristensen had to come inside and he had Kristensen on toast all day long, left, right, inside, outside and he sets up a goal as well."

Leeds snapped up Kristensen from Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg last summer and he has clocked regular game time as part of their defence.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/04/22/he-had-leeds-united-star-on-toast-all-day-former-top-flight-man-on-fulham-attacker/600848/

[WhiteJC]

Northampton 3-1 Harrogate Match Report

Kazeem Olaigbe had fired Town into a third minute lead, though David Norman and Sam Hoskins both found the net to turn the tie around by the half hour mark.

With seconds to go until the break, Kieron Bowie was able to guide the ball into the top corner with a first time volleyed finish, that made it too big of a deficit for Town to recover from on this occasion.

Simon Weaver named the same squad that swept aside Walsall on Tuesday night, while hosts Northampton made just the one change as Max Dyche returned from injury.

It took just three minutes for Town to take the lead with Olaigbe providing another fine finish, finding the bottom left corner after Luke Armstrong had chased down a long Mark Oxley pass and managed to divert the ball in Olaigbe's direction via a deflection.

Northampton would equalise in the 10th minute though, Norman getting his head to an inswinging corner and seeing his attempt cross the line after bouncing back off the far post.

Harrogate responded well to conceding the equaliser with Matty Foulds going close to his first Town goal, heading Josh Falkingham's deep cross into the arms of Lee Burge.

The hosts found themselves ahead in the 23rd minute though through top scorer Hoskins, who had carried the ball forward from right wing back before playing a one-two and firing across Oxley.

Weaver's side again responded well to conceding as Olaigbe saw his shot deflected, before Warren Burrell who had replaced the injured Alex Pattison, suffered the same fate with his well struck attempt.

Deep into stoppage time Northampton grabbed a third goal when Mitch Pinnock stole possession from Matty Foulds and found Bowie, who guided the ball first time into the top corner to put the hosts in a commanding position at the half way point.

The Cobblers made a good start to the second half with Mitch Pinnock going close to adding a fourth and securing the points, his first effort beaten away by Oxley before dragging wide from just outside the area.

Town responded with some attacks of their own, Olaigbe again having a go from range before Weaver opted to introduce Matty Daly into the mix, in place of George Thomson.

Jack Muldoon was also introduced from the bench and went close to pulling a goal back in stoppage time, though Town couldn't find a second goal that would have forced a grandstand finish as Town suffered a first defeat in seven.

Town: Oxley, Falkingham, Thomson (Daly 65), Olaigbe, Folarin (Muldoon 77), Sims, O'Connor, Pattison (Burrell 28), Armstrong, Foulds, Eastman.

Subs not used: Jameson, Mattock, Angus, McArdle

Goals: Olaigbe 3

Northampton: Burge, Sherring, Hoskins (Eppiah 90+), Appere (Yengi 90+), Pinnock, Leonard, Norman (McWilliams 45), Hondermarck, Bowie (Hylton 80), Haynes, Dyche

Subs not used: Wright-Phillips, Osew, King

Goals: Norman 10, Hoskins 23, Bowie 45+2

Booked: Hondermarck

Referee: Seb Stocksbridge

Attendance: 7,018 (107 away)



https://www.harrogate-news.co.uk/2023/04/22/northampton-3-1-harrogate-match-report/

[WhiteJC]

Premier League Arsenal loanee only on 2 starts in all competitions
Three months into his loan spell at Fulham, Cedric Soares is still a fringe player for the Premier League club.

Arsenal right-back Cedric Soares joined Fulham in the January transfer window on a loan deal until the end of the season, with no option to buy in the contract.

The defender started out on the bench, coming on for his debut as a substitute against Nottingham Forest, and the expectation was that he would earn starts once he'd had a chance to integrate.

As of yet, this hasn't happened.

Cedric has now been with Fulham for almost three months, and he's made two starts – one against West Ham United in the Premier League and one against Leeds United in the FA Cup.

The right-back has made four further substitute appearances, but only for a combined total of less than 20 minutes on the pitch.

In the last couple of games against Everton and Leeds, Cedric didn't even come off the bench.

It doesn't help that Fulham's results have picked up in his absence. They've won both of the last two games he missed, and they're therefore unlikely to switch up their side much.

When Cedric completed his loan move to Fulham, they reportedly held talks with Arsenal over a potential fee for a permanent summer move.

But his limited involvement since then doesn't particularly bode well for that eventuality.

Fulham still have seven games left, including a notable clash at home to Manchester City, so there's still some time for Cedric to make an impact over the next month.

If he fails to impress and returns to Arsenal, the Portuguese international will have a year left on his deal.



https://dailycannon.com/2023/04/cedric-fulham-loan-latest/

[WhiteJC]

Player ratings: Fulham 2-1 Leeds United

George Rossiter has the ratings for Fulham's second consecutive Premier League victory

Fulham made it back-to-back league wins on Marco Silva's return to the dugout with a win over relegation threatened Leeds United at Craven Cottage. After a turgid first half from both sides, it was the Whites who came out firing in the second period, and despite a late rally from Javi Gracia's side, Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira's goals were enough to seal the three points.

Bernd Leno
The German goalkeeper's recent form is rapidly putting him in the conversation for player of the season. Game by game, his minimal fee in the summer looks more and more impressive. Leno made two great saves in this one, both from Marc Roca, the most impressive from a free kick in the 17th minute. Blameless for the pinball goal that came off Palhinha last, this was another solid performance in Fulham's net. 7.5/10.

Kenny Tete
When considering Tete's rating, I was wondering what to write. On the surface, it seemed a standard Tete performance with little to critique defensively and praise to be given for his link-up down the right. But then I considered the impact that Leeds' star man Jack Harrison had had on the game...none. Tete pocketed his man in a key duel, which sums him up perfectly, he is a wonderful asset to this side. 7.5/10.

Tosin
The man continues to earn his place in a defence which has taken its Championship-winning form into the Premier League on a number of occasions. There was a moment in the 25th minute when Brendan Aaronson was running towards goal with just Tosin between the Leeds man and Bernd Leno, Tosin showed wonderful composure to stop his man and prevent a potential 1-0 deficit, just one of a number of moments where Tosin showed his defensive quality. 8.5/10. – Man of the match.

Tim Ream
Tosin and Issa Diop are wonderful options to have, with many years left in the game and sell-on values of potentially over £20m each. Both have performed well almost every time they've been called upon. This all only adds to the superlatives that should be sent the way of Tim Ream, who has been the constant at centre-back. Another good performance today, his calmness constantly setting the tone at the back. 7.5/10.

Antonee Robinson
I think it would be harsh to claim this was a game of two halves when describing Robinson's performance, but the American definitely improved as the game went on. After a quiet and stagnated first half, his crosses led to both of Fulham's goals and defensively he got stronger and stronger as he played at a higher intensity. 7/10.

Joao Palhinha
A poor and lazy tackle early on, not only resulted in a needless yellow card, but also set the tone for a first half which, like at Goodison Park last weekend, was sloppy and a bit off colour. While there were improvements in the second half, the Portuguese midfielder will want to be playing at a higher level than this. Maybe tiredness comes into it, but hopefully we see some of his early season form return in the run in to the end of the season. 6/10.

Harrison Reed
An early knock to the knee in Leeds' penalty area might've meant Harrison wasn't quite covering every blade of grass like he normally would. It was by no means a bad performance, just one that was less effective that the standards he's set himself over his time at the Cottage, something we can only praise. 6/10.

Andreas Pereira
Let's get the good stuff out of the way, he finished a chance with an xG figure of 0.96 and came close to adding another from a belter of a free kick that cannoned off the bar. My worry is that, for the most part, it's only been set pieces where Pereira has shown his creativity recently, something that seems to have changed from the start of the season. Once again I am asking that this man is given the rest he deserves. 6.5/10.

Harry Wilson
While Wilson got into some wonderful positions in the first half, which he certainly deserves praise for, there were moments where his final ball lacked conviction and chances were missed for a first half lead. The same could not be said for his goal, the opener, an assertive strike with brilliant technique that went in off the bar after Meslier flapped at his 194th cross of the day. Two in two for the Welsh Wizard, he's back. 7.5/10.

Willian
Every week I rejoice that the Brazilian has decided to be a Ryan Babel rather than an Andre Schurrle, no offence Andre. There is not a position on any pitch that he could not cut inside and find space on. The man oozes class, week in, week out, and we are so, so lucky to have him. He was so close to scoring an incredible free kick, which Meslier pushed onto the angle of post and bar in the last 10 minutes. 8/10.

Bobby De-Cordova Reid
As expected, the Jamaican showed no lack of effort. His pressing game was strong, working well with Pereira to pin Leeds back. He linked play well when the ball came to his feet but very rarely offered much attacking threat. We've won both games with Bobby up front and he's not been bad, but he hasn't had the effect Dan James had or even at times, Carlos Vinicius has had with the ball at his feet. I'm not sure this is the way to go as a Mitrovic alternative in the future. 6/10.

Substitutes
Carlos Vinicius and Sasa Lukic (82' for Bobby De-Cordova Reid and Harrison Reed)

Neither saw too much of the ball but both helped to see the game out. 6/10 for both.

Tom Cairney and Manor Solomon (86' for Andreas Pereira and Harry Wilson)

Got on the ball a fair bit in their 12 minute stints, both effectively taking the ball towards the corners and running rings round tired Leeds legs. 6.5/10 for both

Neeskens Kebano (90+4' for Willian)
Came on too late to be fairly rated, but what an absolute delight it is to have him back playing Premier League football.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-04-22-player-ratings-fulham-2-1-leeds-united/

[WhiteJC]

Wilson and Pereira punish lowly Leeds
Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira grabbed the goals as Fulham pushed Leeds United closer to the relegation zone after a 2-1 win at Craven Cottage this afternoon.

Wilson followed up his first league goal of the season in last weekend's victory at Everton with a well-taken strike to finally give the home side a lead that their enterprise and ambition merited just before the hour mark. Fulham's ambition and enterprise contrasted sharply with the move conservative gameplan adopted by Javia Gracia. Leeds were happy to shut up shop and seek to hit the Whites on the break, but the visitors supplied the game's first shot on goal when Bernd Leno parried away a free kick from Marco Roca.

Fulham fashioned openings but they were largely kept at arm's lengths by a dogged Leeds defence, which was something of a relief for Gracia after his side had conceded eleven games in their last two matches. Willian watched a shot be bravely blocked by Liam Cooper before Pereira tested Meslier's reflexes twice in swift succession – the second seeing the Leeds goalkeeper claw away a corner that the Brazilian had sought to bend between him and the near post.

The hosts stepped it up after the break with Willian seeing a shot deflected wide and Wilson thwarted by another courageous challenge from Cooper. But Fulham weren't to be denied. Antonee Robinson cantered along the left flank after intercepting an aimless crossfield pass from Roca and, after drawing in the Leeds defence, released Willian outside him. The winger's devilish cross was flapped at by Meslier, with the loose ball sitting up nicely for Wilson to volley majestically into the net off the underside of the crossbar.

That goal transformed the game from a cagey, tight affair into one that swung from end-to-end. Crysencio Summerville ruffled the side netting with a low drive that the visitors supporters thought had brought Leeds level – only for the jeers from the rest of the ground to soon disabuse Leeds of that notion. Pereira then went close to doubling the lead, with his curling free-kick leaving Meslier rooted to the spot but cannonung back off the bar.

But the former Manchester United midfielder then was handed the simplest of finishes after the Leeds keeper had succeeded in palming Robinson's cross directly into the path of Pereira, who rolled home a finish to give Fulham a bit of breathing space. Leeds hit back swiftly with Roca forcing Leno to tip a rising drive over the crossbar. The visitors kept the pressure on and halved the deficit when Bamford's finish took a deflection off the unfortunate Pereira and into the net.

That set up an agonisng end to the contest. Meslier did brilliantly to readjust his feet after both New Zealand and West Indies. Willian went close shortly afterwards and, although Leeds belatedly piled on the pressure, they couldn't find another equaliser.

\FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Diop, Adarabioyo; Palhinha, Reed (Lukic 82), Palhinha; Wilson (Kebano 90+4), Willian, Pereira (Cairney 84); Decordova-Reid (Vincius 87). Subs (not used): Rodak, Duffy, Adarabioyo, Squares.

BOOKED: Palhinha

GOALS: Wilson (52), (74).

LEEDS UNITED (4–2-3-1): Meslier; Kristensen, Wöber, Koch, Cooper; Roca, McKennie (Forshaw 80); Summerville, Aaronson (Sinisterra 65), Harrison (Gnonto 80); Rodrigo (Bamford 65). Subs (not used): Firpo, Ayling, Striup, Roberts.

BOOKED: McKennie, Wöber, Cooper, Roca.

GOAL: Palhina (o.g. 50).

REFEREE: Peter Bankes (Mersseyside)



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/04/wilson-and-pereira-punish-lowly-leeds/

[WhiteJC]

Silva salutes Fulham's spirit
Marco Silva praised Fulham's spirit as the Whites recorded a gritty victory over Leeds United at Craven Cottage this afternoon – but admitted his side should have made the game safe long before Patrick Bamford's late strike made for a nervy finale.

Second half goals from Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira were enough to secure a second consecutive win for the Cottagers with Silva pleased that his side showed more invention after the interval. The Fulham head coach, restored to the touchline after serving his two match ban, told BT Sport after the final whistle:

    "[The victory] was definitely well deserved, in my opinion, to play until 90-100 minutes. We were the best team in my opinion, the first-half was more balanced. With better decisions we could have created more chances. In the second-half we adjusted a little, but we had to have more patience. We needed to win the second balls and be more aggressive. With our quality and our fast attacks we did well with the two goals. There was chances to score even more. The own goal gave that belief to them, but well played to the lads they did well."

Silva hailed the return to form of Wilson, who scored his second vital goal in seven days following his first league effort of the season at Everton last weekend.

    A great finish from [Harry] Wilson – he deserves all the credit. It was tough for him with the bad injury in pre-season. He is working really hard and when the chance comes which he has had he takes the opportunities."

The Cottagers' head coach reiterated that he was proud of Fulham's fine campaign, which has surprised all the talking heads, but insisted his focus has now switched to Tuesday night's trip to in-form Aston Villa.

    I said yesterday everyone expected us to go down. Everyone [who] talks in football [said] that we was [the] favourite to go down and nobody believes in us. We worked with the quality we have we was really proactive we showed that in the first game against Liverpool. We are proud of ninth but we are always looking at the next game."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/04/silva-salutes-fulhams-spirit-2/

[WhiteJC]

Pereira praises Fulham's 'winning mentality'
Matchwinner Andreas Pereira hailed Fulham's mentality after the Whites battled to victory over Leeds United at Craven Cottage this afternoon.

The Brazilian attacking midfielder had the simplest of tasks in slotting home his fifth goal of the season from close range after a mistake from Leeds goalkeeper Ilhan Meslier, but Pereira was delighted that Fulham had recorded back-to-back victories after a run of five games without a win failed to see their top flight return peter out long before the end of the season.

He told FFCTV after the final whistle:

    "It was a great performance, especially at home getting back to winning ways. This is what we want. It was a good day. We were a bit frustrated in the first half but in the second half we scored the goals. In the end, we suffer a little bit but that makes it even better."

Pereira wants the Whites to better Fulham's best ever points tally in the top flight, which is the 53 points amassed by Roy Hodgson's side when they finished seventh in the Premier League in 2009/10.

    "We have to make as much points as we can. We have to each game by each game and make a difficult for the people above us. It is the mentality of the manager that he puts in day to day. That's what we want. We want to compete [in] every game and we want to win every game."

He was modest about his winning goal, which came his way after a cross from Antonee Robinson fell at his feet in the six yard box.

    "As soon as Jedi touched the ball, I knew that he was going to cross in that position. First, I thought Bobby [De-Cordova Reid] was going to score and luckily the ball ended up with me. It was a great team play and I could finish [an] easy goal."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/04/pereira-praises-fulhams-winning-mentality/