Sunday Fulham Stuff - 17/09/23...

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Results

Saturday
Wolves	1-3	Liverpool
Villa	3-1	Palace
Fulham	1-0	Luton
Vinícius
Man Utd	1-3	Brighton
Spurs	2-1	Sheff Utd
West Ham	1-3	Man City
Newcastle	1-0	Brentford

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Fulham 1-0 Luton Town

Vinicius (right) came off the bench to make his first appearance of the season

Luton Town manager Rob Edwards was left to rue a host of missed chances by his side as they lost 1-0 to Fulham and remain without a point in the Premier League.

A goal from Carlos Vinicius was enough to ensure that Luton became the first side to lose their opening four games of their first Premier League season since Swindon Town in 1993-94.

The Hatters had frustrated the visitors in the first half, with Jacob Brown hitting the post with a header, while Amari'i Bell and Tom Lockyer missed good chances after the break.

"We have created more chances than they have, but they put one over the line and we didn't," said Edwards.

"We did not give them many chances, but the one big one they took, and that is the ruthless nature of this league."

Vinicius' winner leaves Luton at the foot of the table having scored just two goals in four games.

Missed chances cost Luton dearly
The Hatters will have left Craven Cottage wondering what might have been, having spurned several chances to score despite spending long periods absorbing pressure from the home side.

Tahith Chong shot straight at Bernd Leno after just four minutes, and Carlton Morris fired wide of the target from a tight angle 20 minutes later.

The miss from Morris was followed by Brown's effort against the woodwork, as the summer signing from Stoke hit the post when left unmarked from Issa Kabore's cross from the right.

Luton started the second half promisingly, with Bell shooting wide from Brown's cross, and another fine chance went begging in stoppage time when Lockyer's glancing header flew wide of the target from inside the area.

"We have had three really big chances, we have hit the woodwork with a free header, and we have had a free header right at the death with Tom Lockyer. Amari'i's chance was a very big one as well," said Edwards.

"I also feel we should have had a penalty. Carlton Morris has been fouled when their player is not looking at the ball at the time when the ball is in play. Anywhere else on the pitch, and that is a foul. We have not had a decision there and we have not taken our chances."

Silva's substitutions make the difference
Fulham's last outing came amid a turbulent few days for the Cottagers, with Joao Palhinha's proposed move to Bayern Munich collapsing at the end of the transfer window, before a painful 5-1 defeat by Manchester City.

That loss at Etihad Stadium left manager Marco Silva infuriated by the VAR decision that allowed Nathan Ake's goal to stand, but the Portuguese cut a calmer figure on the occasion of his 100th game in charge at Craven Cottage.

His recall of Palhinha, Fulham's player of the season during the last campaign, gave his side an early edge but they faded and looked short of ideas to combat Luton's resilience as the first half wore on.

But the double substitution, with Harrison Reed and Raul Jimenez making way for Iwobi and Vinicius, proved to be crucial and gave them a cutting edge and creativity. Iwobi was involved in the build-up to the goal before Willian's chipped cross from the left which Luton goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski spilled into the path of Vinicius in the six-yard box.

Despite the single-goal advantage Fulham looked comfortable for much of the rest of the game, holding out to seal the win and their first home clean sheet in the league since beating Nottingham Forest in February.

Palhinha was close to leaving the club before the international break but signed a new contract in the lead-up to this game.

"It is great news for [after] not a great two months with a lot of noise around the club," said Silva.

"It is a clear consequence of last season with players that performed well being linked with other clubs. But I am really pleased for Joao and he showed how he is so important for us, how he is a top player and essential for how we want to play. That is probably a surprise for many, but not for me."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/66760557

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Post-Luton Press Conference

Marco Silva was delighted to mark his 100th game as Fulham boss with victory over a tricky Luton side.

The Hatters proved difficult to break down, but substitute Carlos Vinicius netted in the second-half to earn the Whites their first home win.

"Difficult one and to be to be honest, we expected that," Marco admitted. "We expected that 5-3-2 always behind the ball. This afternoon they did it different with 5-4-1.

"Not something that we face every single week at this level. But we had to get used to that and show respect.

"I respect all the teams, all the strategies as well. Huge respect for Luton, I repeat again, what they did last season was unbelievable.

"They deserve the credit, they are fighting for something really important to that football club.

"First-half, we lacked something dynamic to be honest to create chances. Second-half, some improvements, more dynamic and the two changes made a huge impact in the game."

It was an instant impact from Vini, who found the back of the net less than five minutes after his introduction.

"He made the impact that we needed in that moment on the pitch, not just because he scored - but of course, scoring is always the most important thing for a striker.

"Nice to see Carlos score. Very good week from him and he deserved the chance to go in and nice to see him be decisive for us. The competition (between him and Raúl Jiménez) is also important to us."

Timothy Castagne played his first 90 minutes as a Fulham player, while new signing Alex Iwobi made his debut from the bench.

"Nice to see Timothy impress out of his natural position, even if he can play left or right. He can play both sides so well and he's a great addition for us, definitely.

"Nice to see Alex come in and get his first minutes. They are going to improve for sure, the way we play is going to make them better players for sure. We're really happy to have them."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/16/post-luton-press-conference/

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Vinicius' goal gives Fulham victory
Carlos Vinicius' goal – scored shortly after he had come on as a substitute – gave Fulham victory at Craven Cottage

Vinicius pounced to score after a mistake by keeper Thomas Kaminski, who weakly parried Willian's cross.

Luton caused the Whites problems and had almost taken the lead when Issa Kabore's right-wing cross was headed against the post by Jacob Brown.

And in stoppage time, Tom Lockyer missed a great chance to equalise for the Hatters when he headed another Kabore cross wide of the target.

Fuham's second Premier League win of the season leaves them ninth in the table.

They struggled to create clear-cut chances but were better after Vinicius was introduced along with new signing Alex Iwobi, who came on for his debut.
Fulham: Leno, Tete, Diop, Ream, Castagne, Pereira (Cairney 81), Reed (Iwobi 62), Palhinha, Wilson (De Cordova-Reid 81), Jimenez (Vinicius 62), Willian (Bassey 90).
Subs not used: Rodak, Toure, Muniz, Francois.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-v-luton-report-83833

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Fulham 1-0 Luton: Carlos Vinicius comes off the bench to score winning goal for hosts against the Hatters, who are still looking for their first Premier League point

    Substitute Carlos Vinicius scored in the 65th minute as Fulham beat Luton Town
    The Hatters are still looking for their first Premier League point after promotion

When these two sides last met 16 months ago, Fulham hit seven past Luton Town on the night the Cottagers sealed the Championship title. Few would have imagined that the next time they would meet would be in the Premier League.

As it was, this was a first top-flight meeting between the teams since 1960 when the Hatters won 4-1 at Kenilworth Road but it was Fulham who took the three points here thanks to substitute Carlos Vinicius's second-half strike and moved into the top half of the table.

The Brazilian's first goal of the season inflicted a fourth straight defeat for Luton, who became only the second side to lose each of their first four Premier League matches in their first season in the division, since Swindon Town in 1993-94 and are now rooted to the bottom of the league.

'Tricky one. Difficult one and to be honest, we expected that with their 5-3-2 behind the ball,' admitted Marco Silva, whose side were made to graft for the three points. 'It was crucial for us to win this game,' he added.

In truth, Luton offered stubborn resistance but lacked that clinical edge to beat Bernd Leno despite some glorious chances.


Carlos Vinicius came off the bench to score Fulham's opening goal at home to Luton Town
 

Marco Silva made three changes from the Fulham side that lost to Man City before the break
 

Luton's keeper Thomas Kaminski was booked for timewasting as they looked to stifle the hosts

'We missed three golden opportunities today and I think we should have had a penalty as well,' said Luton boss Rob Edwards.

Silva made three changes from the side that lost to Man City before the international break, with Joao Palhinha making his first appearance since his move to Bayern Munich collapsed at the end of the transfer window.

The Portuguese international won 11 duels, the most of any player on the pitch and since making his Premier League debut last August, he has won 308 duels - more than any other player in the division.

'Top player. Top professional. Top guy,' said Silva, when asked about Palhinha, who signed a new deal till 2028 earlier this week. 'He showed his quality and commitment. All players have dreams. Any professional wants to improve so it's no surprise when one of the biggest clubs come in. But I never had doubts about his commitment to this football club,' added Silva.

Edwards made four changes from their defeat to West Ham with Issa Kabore and Sambi Lokonga making their debuts after moving to Luton on loan from Man City and Arsenal respectively.

With five at the back and keeper Thomas Kaminski booked for timewasting in the first half, Luton's gameplan was clear from the outset - to defend in numbers and hit on the break.

Fulham enjoyed most of the ball with 77.8 percent possession - their most ever in a Premier League game - but it was the visitors with the better chances in the first half with Tahith Chong testing Leno early on. Carlton Morris volleyed wide from inside the box before Jacob Brown's header rattled the crossbar after a superb delivery from Kabore.

Fulham had early opportunities of their own and Kenny Tete should have converted when Andreas Pereira's corner found the Fulham defender but he failed to keep his free header down.

The visitors should have taken the lead after the break when Brown's floated delivery found Amari Bell at the far post but his strike was straight at the outstretched Leno.


Fulham's Kenny Tete (L) should have taken the lead, but he failed to keep his free header down
 

Rob Edwards rolled the dice with four substitutions, but the Hatters failed to get the equaliser
 

Vinicius's goal moved Fulham into the top half of the Premier League after five matches

And they were made to pay for their wastefulness three minutes after Vinicius replaced Raul Jimenez up front. Pereira found Willian down the left-hand side and his delivery was palmed by Kaminski straight into the path of Vinicius who smashed home to break the deadlock.

With 15 minutes to go, Edwards rolled the dice with four substitutions but they failed to get an equaliser. It was another opportunity missed for the Hatters who will be desperate to avoid making it five defeats on the trot when Wolves visit Kenilworth Road next weekend.

For Silva, a win was a fitting way to mark his 100th game in charge of the Cottagers. His win rate of 39.5 percent with the club in the Premier League is the best out of any Fulham manager but he was keen to emphasise some of the refereeing decisions that have gone against his side this season.

'Five games. Tough schedule and many decisions against us as well that have had a huge impact,' stressed Silva. 'Sometimes it's important to remind because sometimes people forget. It's not an excuse but it's a reality.'



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12525997/Fulham-1-0-Luton-Carlos-Vinicius-comes-bench-score-winning-goal-hosts-against-Hatters-looking-Premier-League-point.html

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Vinicius' first touch is magic as he slams home winner to give Fulham all points against Luton
24,467

Fulham v Luton Town

Carlos Vinicius has a first great touch, just ask the majority of the 24,467 in Craven Cottage this afternoon.

He used it to good effect when he came off the bench, and with that first touch smashed the ball home from close range that dented Luton Town's, up till then resolute defence.

It was enough to see the west Londoners home with all three points, and leave the Hatters wondering how they are going to get a point let alone a win, as they sit rooted to the bottom of the Premier League, with zero points from their four opening matches.

Fulham by contrast  look  to have enough in the tank up front to win the tight encounter 

Understandably, Fulham had the initial dominance expected from the home side, but on five minutes, the first attack on goal came from the Hatters when Tahith Chong, ran almost the length of the pitch  before getting away an on-target left footer. But Bernd Leno had his angles right and snaffled the low drive at the foot of his near post.

The whites should have scored on 20 minutes. A regulation in-swinging corner from the left was met by the head of Kenny Tete close to the near post, but he could only direct the ball just over the Luton crossbar.

A harry Wilson left-footed free-kick two minutes later yielded similar result, this time Thomas Kaminski was right behind the ball and he easily grabbed it to safety.

Carlton Morris, on 26 minutes will be kicking himself that he did not make more of the volley that presented itself to him 12 yards out of the left. But he panicked slightly and snatched at his left footer and the ball went wide.

Buoyed by this Luton tried again and were unlucky when Jacob Brown's diving header rebounded to safety off the Fulham crossbar two minutes later.

Deep defending and razor-sharp counter-attacks are the tactics employed by head coach Rob Edwards.

So far they have not got any points on the board with Luton having lost all three Premier League games so far.

But it's a tactic that is a work in progress and for the first half  it worked a treat against Fulham.

Nether side made a change at half-time.

Very much a repeat of the opening stages of the first half, Luton almost snatched an unlikely lead on 49 minutes when a basic byline cross, deep to the far post found Amari'l Bell, but he could not get any power on his left-footed stretched volley and Leno snatched it off the goal line.

Raul Jimenez tried a looping header from just inside the Luton area on 52 mi jutes, but like their finishing, it was  off and the ball dropped harmlessly on top of the goal.

Harrison Reed was the first to go off with Raul with Carlos Vinicius and Alex Iwobi coming on for Fulham on 62 minutes.

Rewards were instant.

A foray down the left on saw the ball whipped in across the byline by Willian. The goalkeeper, sadly for  Luton dived low, could on;y get a soft left hand on the ball and Vinicius was on hand to smash the ball into the back of the net to put the home side 1-0 up.

Next off came Wilson, to be replaced by Bobby De Cordova-Reid, also off went Andreas Pereira, who was replaced by fans' favourite Tom Cairney.

Teams: Fulham, Leno, Tete, Reed, Jimenez, Wilson, Ream, Pereira, Willian, Castagne, Palhinha, Diop

Subs, Rodak, Bassey, Cairney, Ballo-Toure, de Cordova-Reid, Muniz, Iwobi, Vinicius, Francois

Luton Town' Kaminski, Lockyear, Andersen, Morris, Kabore, Nakamba, Chong, Burke, Brown, Lokonga, Bell

Subs, Krul, Ogbene, Berry, Woodrow, Adebayo, Mengi, Mpanzu, Giles, Doughty

Referee Michael Salisbury



https://www.capitalfootball.co.uk/single-post/vinicius-first-touch-is-magic-as-he-slams-home-winner-to-give-fulham-all-three-points-against-luton

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Fulham 1-0 Luton: Joao Palhinha's fresh commitment helps Cottagers past Premier League strugglers

Fulham earned their first home league win of the season, pushing Luton to the bottom of the league

It is no hyperbole to say that this felt more like a Joao Palhinha testimonial match than it did an ordinary Saturday 3pm kick-off in the Premier League.

In the same way the crowd might cheer the every action — good or bad — of a retiring great of the game, the home support cheered with an unbounded pride every time Palhinha touched the ball in this 1-0 win over Luton Town.

The one pertinent difference, though, was that unlike in a testimonial, the man in the centre of it all made next-to-no errors all game. Here, from Palhinha, was the level of performance that convinced Bayern Munich to bid £56million for him on deadline day, Fulham to reject such riches, and their fans to rejoice when, on Thursday, he signed a new long-term contract with the club.

At one point midway through the first half, Luton's Jacob Brown looked to his right and saw Fulham were horribly exposed out wide. Just as he tried to play Carlton Morris through on goal, Palhinha steamed in from nowhere and snuffed out his pass.

It was the sort of crunching challenge Marco Silva's side had sorely missed when, without Palhinha after his Bayern move broke down, Fulham fell 5-1 to Manchester City before the international break.

This was the smoothest and most in-sync Fulham had passed the ball between themselves for quite some time, but they did not always do much with their possession, and left themselves exposed to Luton's counter-attacks.

Tahith Chong produced a one-man breakaway and shot against the gloves of Bernd Leno within four minutes, before Fulham threatened Luton's goal for the first time when Kenny Tete nodded three inches too high from Andreas Pereira's typically reliable corner delivery.

Fulham kept the ball so well, but a distinct lack of movement off the ball bred restlessness from their supporters. Another let-off arrived when Issa Kabore crossed delightfully for Jacob Brown, who hurtled himself at the ball like a salmon to crash a header against the upright.

As the sun slowly toasted Fulham's increasingly impatient home fans after the interval, Silva — on his 100th match as manager — waved his arms and plodded about in frustration. By 60 minutes, Fulham had seen 79 per cent of the ball, and created so very little.

But Palhinha kept them ticking over, kept Luton out of possession and Fulham in commanding control.

Finally, on 65 minutes, Fulham found a way through. It will have been a bittersweet sight for Raul Jimenez — yet to score for his new club — to see his replacement, Carlos Vinicius, break the deadlock just three minutes after entering the fray. Willian crossed, and goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski could only claw the ball for Vinicius to slam home.

In May 2022, Fulham thrashed Luton 7-0 to seal the Championship title after a record-shattering season. Nothing quite so blistering here, but three crucial points. Their fans were as pleased to see Palhinha nibbling at the feet of opposition players again as they were to watch a first home league win of the season.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-vs-luton-premier-league-result-2023-b1107502.html

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Aleksandar Mitrovic aims brutal dig at former clubs Newcastle and Fulham after Saudi Pro League move

Aleksandar Mitrovic has aimed a brutal dig at former clubs Newcastle and Fulham following his move to the Saudi Pro League.

Mitrovic, 29, ended his eight-year spell in English football by joining Saudi side Al Hilal in a £46m transfer from Fulham earlier this summer.

His time at Craven Cottage ended in acrimonious circumstances after he threatened to never play for the club again if he was denied a move to Al Hilal.

Mitrovic has made a flying start to his career in Saudi Arabia, scoring five goals in his first four games for his new club.

He opened the scoring for Al Hilal on Friday as they beat Al Riyadh 6-1 on Friday in Neymar's first game for the club.

In an interview with Italian newspaper Gazzetta Dello Sport, Mitrovic aimed a dig at Newcastle and Fulham – saying he was happy to be finally playing for a 'top club'.

"When I received the offer from Al-Hilal, I talked about it with my family, giving up was impossible," Mitrovic said.

"I have no nostalgia for England, I played many years there.

"I'm happy to have finally arrived at a top club, Al Hilal is a bit like Real Madrid in Europe."

The 29-year-old striker also revealed that he suggested a move to Saudi Arabia to fellow Serb, Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic.

"Yes, I'd also recommend it to Dusan, but then it depends on what he wants. In the national team we talked about Saudi Arabia, he asked me how I am getting on," he added.

"However, if I have to be honest, I see he's happy and focused on Juve. He is happy to be part of one of the strongest clubs in Europe."



https://www.sportbible.com/football/saudi-pro-league/neymar-al-hilal-debut-saudi-pro-league-543049-20230916

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Carlos Vinicius hits winner as Fulham overcome Luton Town
Carlos Vinicius came off the bench to score the only goal in Fulham's Premier League clash with Luton Town at Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon.

The forward registered in the 65th minute of the contest, with the three points moving Marco Silva's side onto seven points from five matches, leaving them in ninth position in the table.

Luton, meanwhile, remain bottom of the division, having lost all four of their league games at the start of the 2023-24 campaign.

Fulham fans paid tribute to former owner Mohamed Al-Fayed ahead of kickoff, with every home supporter given a scarf in the team's first home game since his death.

Luton had the first half-chance of the match in the fifth minute, with Tahith Chong breaking into a dangerous position, but the attacker's strike was always comfortable for Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno.

The Cottagers were the side in control of the possession as the first half developed, but Luton were proving to be a tough nut to crack.

Fulham's first real chance of the match arrived in the 21st minute when Kenny Tete made contact on a dangerous corner, but his header was just over the crossbar.



Luton had two chances of their own on the counter-attack in the spell that followed, with Carlton Morris firing wide of the post before Jacob Brown headed onto the post.

The away side's goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski was booked for time-wasting in the 36th minute of the contest, which is an indication of how the match developed at Craven Cottage.

Joao Palhinha, who recently signed a new contract at Fulham, headed over the Luton crossbar early in the second period, before Timothy Castagne had a shot blocked from distance.

Finally, the breakthrough arrived in the 65th minute, with Vinicius, who had only entered the field three minutes before in place of Raul Jimenez, converting from close range after a Willian cross had been palmed into him by the Luton goalkeeper.

Alex Iwobi had a half-chance in the final five minutes, with the midfielder turning inside the Luton box before releasing a strike, but the ball was always rising over the crossbar.

Luton had a chance to level late on through Tom Lockyer, but his header went towards the corner flag, allowing the home side to claim an important three points.

Fulham will be back in action against Crystal Palace next Saturday, while Luton will resume their campaign at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers on the same afternoon.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/result/carlos-vinicius-hits-winner-as-fulham-overcome-luton-town_524218.html?newsnow

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Fulham win 1-0 to deny Luton first Premier League point
LONDON, Sept 16 (Reuters) - Fulham extended Luton Town's quest for a first Premier League point when Carlos Vinicius came off the bench and scored a second-half winner in a 1-0 victory at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

Fulham were far from convincing against a Luton side that had plenty of men behind the ball, but they did enough to move up to ninth in the standings. Winless Luton are rooted at the bottom with a game in hand.

"Difficult one, to be honest, we expected that 5-3-2 (formation), always behind the ball. This afternoon they did it different with 5-4-1," Silva told reporters.

"Not something that we face every single week at this level. But we had to get used to that and show respect."

After a minute's silence for former club owner Mohamed Al-Fayed, who died last month, Fulham dominated possession in the first half but the home side had little to show for it and Luton came closest to opening the scoring.

Luton's Tahith Chong was denied on a solo run and Carlton Morris volleyed just wide before Jacob Brown's header hit the post.

Amari'i Bell nearly gave Luton the lead three minutes into the second half when he got on the end of a cross from Brown but his side-footed volley did not have enough power behind it and Bernd Leno made a comfortable save.

With the home fans growing frustrated, Fulham boss Marco Silva threw on Vinicius just after the hour mark and the Brazilian forward made an instant impact when he pounced on a spill from goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski for a tap-in.

"First half, we lacked something dynamic to create chances," Silva added.

"Second half, some improvements, more dynamic and the two changes (Vinicius and Alex Iwobi) made a huge impact in the game."

Luton centre back and captain Tom Lockyer played up front in the closing stages and the 28-year-old found space for a free header in the final minute of stoppage time, but failed to find the target.

"We have had three really big chances, we have hit the woodwork with a free header, we have had a free header right at the death with Tom Lockyer and Amari'i's chance was a very big one as well," Luton boss Rob Edwards told BBC Sport.

"We did not give them many, but the one big one they took, and that is the ruthless nature of this league.

"But I have seen progression and a better performance, the lads are really with it. We fought diligently and were a real threat on the counter-attack."

Reporting by Rohith Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Hugh Lawson, Ed Osmond and Pritha Sarkar



https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/fulham-win-1-0-deny-luton-first-premier-league-point-2023-09-16/?rpc=401&;

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Fulham 1-0 Luton: Cottagers sub strikes to keep Hatters pointless



Luton remain pointless in the Premier League after Carlos Vinicius' goal secured Fulham a 1-0 win at Craven Cottage.

Substitute Vinicius opened his account for the season with his second-half strike which was enough for Marco Silva's side to claim an important win weeks after they lost 5-1 at Manchester City.

A fourth defeat in a row will be a frustration for Rob Edwards as Luton now sit at the foot of the Premier League table after they failed to take their golden first-half opportunities.

The hosts were caught on the break by Tahith Chong in the fourth minute but his effort hardly tested Bernd Leno.

Luton continued their theme of a low block which favoured the technical Joao Palhinha, who returned to Silva's XI after a failed deadline-day move to Bayern Munich.

Andreas Pereira's whipped corner found the head of Kenny Tete but the full-back failed to keep his effort on target and it narrowly went over Thomas Kaminski's crossbar.

The Hatters patiently waited for openings and in the 26th minute Issa Kabore went down the right from wing-back and his pinpoint cross found the head of Jacob Brown whose attempt cannoned off the post.



Edwards lauded the spirit of his side on Thursday and it was shown through the likes of Brown and Carlton Morris who defended from the front as well as Marvelous Nakamba who battled in the middle to win any loose scraps.

Brown forced a booking and a free-kick out of Issa Diop in added time and referee Michael Salisbury waved away Morris' appeals in the area for a penalty when he was brought down.

It was Brown who created the first chance after the break in the 47th minute when he found a neat pocket of space in the channel and delivered a well-crafted cross to Amari'i Bell at the back stick but the wing-back's shot found the gloves of Leno.

Fulham broke the deadlock in the 64th minute.

Pereira found Willian out wide before the winger's cross forced Kaminski to parry the ball into the feet of Vinicius who was fresh off the bench to tap his side into a 1-0 lead.

Willian nearly doubled the lead straight after with a long-range effort.

Tete's testing pass found Vinicius who could not keep his composure through on goal late on to add a second before Fulham were able to see out the game during four minutes of added time.



https://www.football365.com/news/premier-league-report-fulham-1-0-luton

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Luton's search for a first Premier League point continues following Fulham defeat
Premier League: Fulham 1 Luton Town 0

Luton's search for a first Premier League point of the season continues after they were beaten 1-0 by Fulham at Craven Cottage this afternoon.

The Hatters came as close as they have come so far to breaking their winless run, level at the break for the first time, following an opening 45 minutes half in which they had the best chance, Jacob Brown heading against the post.

However, they were eventually undone midway through the second period, sub Carlos Vinicius stabbing home from close range with what proved to be the only goal of the game, ensuring Rob Edwards' side left empty-handed once more.

Although the hosts bossed possession, with 78 percent of the ball, Town weren't without their threats, but ultimately it was another match in which they couldn't make the most of them, ultimately paying the price.

The Hatters had made four changes from their 2-1 defeat to West Ham United, on-loan Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambo Lokonga making an immediate debut, with skipper Tom Lockyer back too.

Brown was handed a first Premier League start, while Issa Kabore was recalled, Alfie Doughty, Ryan Giles and Elijah Adebayo dropping to the bench, Ross Barkley missing out with injury.

With Town opting to try and shore things up following nine goals conceded in three matches, they set up with Lokonga and Marvelous Nakmaba in the centre of midfield, switching to four behind lone striker Carlton Morris when not in possession, Brown on the right and Chong left.

It was Lokonga who set Town away for their chance on five minutes, finding Chong who had to go it alone from well inside his own half.

With no support and the angle rapidly closing, the summer signing had little option but to go for goal, Bernd Leno saving comfortably at his near post.

Fulham who were being cheered on by actor Hugh Grant, for the first half at least, started to dominate possession, Luton unable to get out of their half for the rest of the opening 20 minutes.

The Cottagers should have turned their dominance into the lead too, Kenny Tete heading a corner over from a matter of yards.

Town's eagerness to get a touch of the ball spilled over with Lokonga and Lockyer both lunging in for a dangerous free kick that Harry Wilson fortunately sent straight at Kaminski.

Trying to take the lead in a game for the first time themselves, Luton then began to get into proceedings, particularly down the right, with Kabore finding some joy.

First he saw a deep cross nodded back by Morris, Brown heading it to his team-mate, who could only volley wastefully wide at the far post.

Then on 27 minutes, Lokonga slid Kabore away on the right once more and he had acres of room to pick out a cross.

He did that just, finding the completely unmarked Brown but from eight yards, he directed his header against the outside of the post.

Luton were starting to get frustrated by a number of calls from the officials, one when giving a free kick against Amari'i Bell on the advice of his assistant that saw Wilson curl inches wide.

When Brown could turn and face his man, he had some joy, forcing Issa Diop into a trip that saw the defender booked.

Lokonga's ball in led to a collision between Morris and Harrison Reed, replays showed that the midfielder incredibly fortunate not to concede a penalty, his discretion no worse than Bell's on Wilson earlier in the half.

On level terms at the break for the first time this season, Luton then set about the second period clearly trying to remain in the game as long as possible.

They almost went one better just two minutes in, Brown wriggling away to cross for the stretching Bell, whose volley was gathered by Leno, the keeper just able to keep the ball the right side of the line from his perspective.

Fulham caused a moment of alarm when after a period of prolonged possession, Palinhna met a deep cross at the far post, his looping header landing on the roof of the net.

As the home fans began to air their frustrations at the scoreline, as despite entirely bossing the ball, the hosts were doing little with it, home boss Marco Silva turned to £22m deadline day signing Alex Iwobi and Carlos Vinicius from the bench just after the hour mark.

It was to pay instant dividends too, Willian finding space on the left and when his low cross wasn't gathered by Kaminski, Vinicius fired the loose ball home with virtually his first touch.

Willian then went for goal himself, Kabore's foot taking it behind, as with 15 to go, Edwards didn't just roll the dice, he positively hurled them, a quadruple change seeing Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu, Chiedozie Ogbena, Doughty and Adebayo on for Lokonga, Morris, Brown and Chong.

It led to Luton finally giving their hosts something to think about, winning a corner that saw Doughty's delivery cleared away, while Kabore went close, when his fierce drive was deflected behind.

Iwobi failed to wrap things up, skying over after Bell was beaten by the flight of a long ball forward, as Cauley Woodrow came on, diverting Kabore's hanging cross wide.

Lockyer was then involved at both ends, coming to the rescue when Vinicius looked like he was going to wrar the points up with a second and then almost stealing a leveller, glancing wide from yet another Kabore cross.

Cottagers: Bernd Leno, Kenny Tete, Harrison Reed (Alex Iwobi 62), Raul Jiminez (Carlos Vinicius 62), Harry Wilson (Bobby De Cordova-Reid 81), Tim Rea (C), Andreas Pereira (Tom Cairney 81), Willian (Calvin Bassey 90), Timothy Castagne, Joao Palhina, Issa Diop.

Subs not used: Marek Rodak, Fode Ballo-Toure, Rodrigo Munez, Tyrese Francois.

Hatters: Thomas Kaminski, Issa Kabore, Reece Burke (Cauley Woodrow 81), Mads Andersen, Tom Lockyer (C), Amari'i Bell, Albert Sambi Lokonga (Alfie Doughty 75), Marvelous Nakamba, Tahith Chong (Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu 75), Jacob Brown (Chiedozie Ogbene 75), Carlton Morris (Elijah Adebayo 75).

Subs not used: Tim Krul, Luke Berry, Teden Mengi, Ryan Giles.

Referee: Michael Salisbury.

Booked: Chong 27, Kamsinki 36, Castagne 40, Diop 44.

Attendance: 24,467.



https://www.lutontoday.co.uk/sport/football/luton-town/lutons-search-for-a-first-premier-league-point-continues-following-fulham-defeat-4338795

[WhiteJC]

Last-place Luton still waiting for first point in Premier League after Vinicius strikes for Fulham

LONDON (AP) - Luton is still waiting for its first point after a 1-0 loss to Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday.

The newly promoted side extended its losing run to four games after substitute Carlos Vinicius' 65th-minute winner for Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The result left Luton at the bottom of the table as it continues to struggle on its return to the English top flight for the first time since 1992.

With both teams trying to find a breakthrough, Fulham produced the decisive moment three minutes after Vinicius came on for Raul Jimenez in the 62nd.

Andreas Pereira found Willian out wide before the winger´s cross forced Luton goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski to parry the ball. It fell to the feet of Vinicius who, despite only just coming on, was sharp enough to convert.

Willian came close to doubling Fulham's lead with a long-range effort and Vinicius had another chance late on, but could not add a second.

The result saw Fulham quickly bounce back from its 5-1 loss to Manchester City before the international break.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-12526463/Last-place-Luton-waiting-point-Premier-League-Vinicius-strikes-Fulham.html

[WhiteJC]

Hatters boss felt Luton were denied a clear-cut penalty at Craven Cottage
Reaction from Town chief to Fulham loss

Luton boss Rob Edwards felt that missed chances and a clear-cut penalty not being awarded prevented Town from getting their first Premier League points on the board after a 1-0 defeat at Fulham this afternoon.

With the scores goalless and half time approaching, striker Carlton Morris and Cottagers midfielder Harrison Reed collided inside the area when trying to meet Albert Sambi Lokonga's free kick.

On first glance it appeared to be a coming together, but replays showed that Reed clearly stuck out a leg to catch the Town forward, bringing him down in the process.

VAR didn't agree though and with Jacob Brown having headed against the post from eight yards, the second period saw Amari'i Bell's volley caught by keeper Bernd Leno.

Town went on to pay the price just after the hour mark as Carlos Vinicius found the net, before skipper Tom Lockyer flashed a late header wide.

A frustrated Edwards said: "We're in the game right the way until the 94th and a half or whatever it is minute.

"Four and a half minutes? I'm sure other teams are getting a lot more extra time than we are added on when chasing, but anyway, I'm very proud of the lads.

"I think we missed three golden opportunities today, we had three brilliant chances, Browny's header in the first half which hit the woodwork, Amari'i Bell's one and Tom Lockyer right at the end.

"Three big, big chances and I think we should have had a penalty as well.

"I think the foul on Carlton Morris from the wide freekick, where Reed's not looking at the ball and he fouled him, anywhere else on the pitch it's a foul.

"So we should have had a penalty and I think we could have been in here talking about a very different result now.

"I do genuinely think we should be here talking about us getting something from the game."

Asked whether VAR had looked at the incident, Edwards, who had seen Bell penalised for a similar offence on Harry Wilson just moments beforehand, added: "It does get checked, every decision like that will get checked.

"I've looked at it back and I do think it should be.

"There was one in the build-up that got given, that's what I was saying, maybe inside the box, outside the box, is there a different rule?

"I don't know, maybe there's just one for Luton."



https://www.lutontoday.co.uk/sport/football/luton-town/hatters-boss-felt-luton-were-denied-a-clear-cut-penalty-at-craven-cottage-4338812

[WhiteJC]

ulham boss Silva praise for matchwinner Carlos Vinicius – as Brazilian strikes to see off Luton at Cottage
Marco Silva praised striker Carlos Vinicius for being what Fulham "needed" in their narrow 1-0 victory against Luton Town today.

The Brazilian striker scored the game's only goal just three minutes after coming on as a second-half substitute to secure the Whites' first home win of the season.

Vinicius had not featured this term ahead of the Luton game, but Silva felt the matchwinner was the right man to call upon to decide a contest that looked destined to finish goalless.

"He made the impact that we needed," said Silva. "Not just because he scored, of course scoring is always the most important thing for a striker, but [he had] the dynamic that we needed in that moment.

"It's nice to see Carlos score at the end of a very good week from him and he deserved the chance [to play], and it was nice to see him be decisive."

Competition between Fulham's remaining strikers has gone up a level after Aleksandar Mitrovic's summer move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.

Raul Jimenez has started all five Premier League games so far this season but endured a frustrating afternoon against the Hatters.

The Mexican is yet to find the net since arriving from Wolves in the summer and he registered just one shot at goal before being replaced by Vinicius in the 62nd minute.

However, Silva pointed to how the rest of his team did not do enough to bother the Luton backline rather than pin responsibility squarely on the shoulders of Jimenez.

"Raul only arrived on Thursday morning [after international duty with Mexico], we knew that at around 60 minutes we needed to prepare to make the change," he said.

"We knew it would not be the dynamic that we needed for the 90 minutes. It doesn't matter which striker is on the pitch, if you don't create for them they are not going to score. We have to perform better for our strikers to score more goals.

"Competition between them [the strikers] is always important for us.

"They have to compete and then it is up to me to decide who is the best striker for each game."

The Fulham boss also praised Luton for the difficulty they posed his side. Despite enjoying just 22 per cent possession, the Hatters limited Fulham to two shots on target throughout the 90 minutes.

"It was difficult, to be honest," said Silva. "We expected them to play 3-5-2 behind the ball, this afternoon they played with just one striker.

"[They had] nine players around the ball and were always really deep, it is not something that we face every week at this level. When you have the ball for such a long time you have to be more dynamic to create the chances you need."



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/fulham-boss-silva-praise-for-matchwinner-carlos-vinicius-as-brazilian-strikes-to-see-off-luton-at-cottage/

[WhiteJC]

Vinicius vanquishes Luton
Carlos Vinicius needed just three minutes to remind Marco Silva of his predatory prowess as the Brazilian striker stabbed home the decisive goal to give Fulham a much-needed win over plucky Luton Town at Craven Cottage this afternoon.

Vinicius, who wrote his name in Fulham folklore by heading the winner against Chelsea last January, hasn't had the opportunity to replace Aleksandar Mitrovic this term despite deputising admirably for the Serbian when Fulham's talisman was banned for taking his protest against Chris Kavanagh at Old Trafford too far. Silva has preferred summer signing Raul Jimenez even before the former Fulham number nine departed for Saudi Arabia, but the Mexican veteran was easily nullified by Luton's three centre halves on what looked like being a frustrating afternoon as the Cottage paid tribute to Mohamed Al-Fayed.

Vinicius, though, showed a striker's instinct in profiting from Thomas Kaminski's failure to hold a cross from Willian and turned home the winner as the Whites largely laboured against the newly-promoted Hatters. Silva's substitutions made the difference with Alex Iwobi, also introduced just after the hour, spreading the play out to Willian – via Andreas Pereira – smartly after a deft touch added momentum to a Fulham move. That attack proved crucial as the Whites were holding on at the death and, despite seeing only a fifth of the ball, Luton created the clearer chances even before falling behind.

Rob Edwards' men might have slipped to the bottom of the Premier League pile as they remain pointless after four games, but there was plenty for a vocal travelling support to take encouragement from. They were well drilled in defence, with Fulham only appearing threatening from set plays in the first half such as when Kenny Tete headed over from a corner, and created the game's best opportunities. Jacob Brown headed against the near post from a wonderful Issa Kabore cross with Bernd Leno beaten before Amari Bell somehow shot straight at the German goalkeeper when he had the goal to aim at after being found unattended at the far post by Brown's brilliant ball.

Jimenez buzzed in front of the Luton defence brightly but his best effort was another ambitious overhead kick, whilst Pereira was also pretty peripheral for much of the contest. Joao Palhinha almost celebrated his new contract with a header having reached a deep cross from Timothy Castagne but his effort looped onto the roof of the net. Iwobi made an immediate impression as Fulham went through the gears, starting the move that led to the opener, and then orchestrating attacks that threatened to double the lead. Willian had a shot deflected just past the angle of far post and crossbar and Iwobi scooped a shot into the Hammersmith End after Palhinha had prised open the visiting defence by releasing Bobby Decordova-Reid.

Vinicius might easily have wrapped the points up when sent clear by a terrific Tete through ball, but Luton grew in confidence the longer the deficit remained a slender one. Kabore had a shot deflected wide before skipper Tom Lockyer flashed a header across the face of goal in stoppage time and Fulham's frantic defending scrambled a late opportunity away from the feet of their old centre forward Cauley Woodrow. It wasn't pretty but Silva will certainly take seven points from the first five fixtures – which lifts his side to ninth in the table. More importantly, this was Fulham's first home league clean sheet in nine matches stretching back to February. That represents something to build upon.

FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Castagne, Diop, Ream; Palhinha, Reed (Iwobi 62); Wilson (De Cordova-Reid 81), Willian (Bassey 90+1), Pereira (Cairney 81); Jimenez (Vinicius 62). Subs (not used): Rodak, Ballo-Toure, Francois, Muniz.

BOOKED: Castagne, Diop.

GOAL: Vinicius (65).

LUTON TOWN (5-3-2): Kaminski, Kabore, Bell, Burke (Woodrow 82), Lockyer; Lokonga (Pelly 75), Nakamba, Chong (Adebayo 75); Morris (Ogbene 74), Brown (Doughty 74). Subs (not used): Krul, Mengi, Giles, Berry.

BOOKED: Chong, Kaminski.

REFEREE: Michael Salisbury (Wiltshire).

ATTENDANCE: 24,467



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/vinicius-vanquishes-luton/

[WhiteJC]

Silva salutes 'decisive' Vinicius
Marco Silva hailed the instant impact of substitute Carlos Vinicius after the Brazilian striker took just three minutes to score the winner against a stubborn Luton Town side at Craven Cottage this afternoon.

Vinicius made the most of first taste of senior football this season – turning home the only goal of the game inside the six-yard box after Thomas Kaminski had parried a Willian cross into his path.

The Fulham head coach felt Vinicius' winner was a fitting reward for a strong week of training at Motspur Park.

"He made the impact that we needed in that moment on the pitch, not just because he scored – but of course, scoring is always the most important thing for a striker. [It was] nice to see Carlos score. It was a very good week from him and he deserved the chance to go in and nice to see him be decisive for us. The competition [between Vinicius and Raul jimenez] is important for us."

Silva heaped praise on Luton and their manager Rob Edwards after the Hatters frustrated Fulham for more than hour and had good chances to open the scoring themselves.

"[It was a] difficult one and, to be honest, we expected that. We expected that 5-3-2 always behind the ball. This afternoon they did it different with 5-4-1. Not something that we face every single week at this level. But we had to get used to that and show respect. I respect all the teams, all the strategies as well. Huge respect for Luton, I repeat again, what they did last season was unbelievable. They deserve the credit, they are fighting for something really important to that football club."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/silva-salutes-decisive-vinicius/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham player ratings from 1-0 win over Luton Town – Palhinha stamps his midfield authority as Willian the liveliest attacking outlet
Fulham registered their first home win of the new Premier League season with a 1-0 victory over struggling Luton Town.

A second-half strike from substitute Carlos Vinicius proved crucial on what looked set to be a frustrating afternoon for Marco Silva's side.

Here are Dan Evans's player ratings from Craven Cottage.

Bernd Leno – 7
Was largely untested throughout the 90 minutes but remained alert to push away an early effort from Tahith Chong and was on his toes to claim an Amari'I Bell effort in the second half which the full-back should have scored from.

Kenny Tete – 7
Dependable showing from the right-back. Missed a glorious opportunity after 20 minutes that could have made this a more comfortable afternoon for Fulham. A brilliant, late throughball to Vinicius should have been rewarded with an assist though.

Issa Diop – 6
Had a few nervy moments in possession and was at times guilty of losing concentration as Fulham went long spells without having to defend. Booked in the first half for a rash challenge as Luton began to threaten on the counter-attack.

Tim Ream – 7
The captain did not miss a beat at the heart of the defence. Three clearances and three blocks were evidence of a committed performance, but he also brilliantly won the ball back from Carlton Morris in the first half to stop a counter attack after he had initially given possession away.

Timothy Castagne – 7
A promising full debut for the Belgian as he slotted in comfortably after Antonee Robinson missed out due to a muscular injury. Only ventured forward a la Robinson occasionally but finished the afternoon having made four tackles and one interception as he helped stifle Luton breakaways.

 Harrison Reed – 6
A quiet showing for the less-heralded member of Fulham's midfield pairing. Made a couple of good runs in the first half to stretch a packed Luton defence but was unable to provide much more to try and break the deadlock. Tidy in possession but replaced by Iwobi on 62 minutes as Fulham chased a winner.

Joao Palhinha – 7
Back in the team and was at his destructive best on almost every occasion Luton looked to break away. Fortunate to escape a booking in the first half just before Jacob Brown hit the post for the visitors, yet remained as composed as ever in the final stages to see home the win. Finished the game having made six tackles – as many as any other player on the pitch.

Harry Wilson – 6
Started brightly in the first half, coming in off the right flank to play a couple of lovely passes with his left foot and regularly threatened from set-pieces. Became less involved as the game wore on though, and was replaced on 80 minutes.

Andreas Pereira – 6
Struggled to influence the game in the first half as Luton sat deep and rarely offered space between their midfield and attack. Was brighter after the break, and was replaced on 80 minutes having made four key passes.

Willian – 8
Was Fulham's most lively attacker in a dour first half, providing cutting passes and dangerous crosses. Was ultimately responsible for the breakthrough as his cross was spilled to Vinicius by Thomas Kaminski, although one of his earlier deliveries should have been rewarded. Replaced in stoppage time.

Raul Jimenez – 4
A difficult afternoon for the striker. Came into the game having scored three for Mexico on international duty and was always a willing runner, but he has now gone 28 Premier League games without a goal. Was comfortably marshalled by Luton's Tom Lockyer, winning just one of 10 duels before he was replaced by Vinicius on 62 minutes.

Subs:

Alex Iwobi – 7
A promising first appearance in Fulham colours. Brought energy to a game that was falling desperately flat with his dribbling and willingness to play forward. Will surely be hoping for a starting berth soon enough.

Carlos Vinicius – 7
His winning goal was fortunate following Kaminski's error but he was crucially in the right place at the right time to strike – something that Jimenez did not look likely to achieve. Has done his chances of becoming the regular striker no harm.

Tom Cairney – NA

 Bobby De Cordova-Reid – NA

Calvin Bassey – NA



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/fulham-player-ratings-from-1-0-win-over-luton-town-palhinha-stamps-his-midfield-authority-as-willian-the-liveliest-attacking-outlet/

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Liverpool face new challenge to sign Jurgen Klopp's 'phenomenal' £56m top target
Liverpool would now face a new challenge if Jurgen Klopp revives the Anfield natives' interest in a transfer for Joao Palhinha after he agreed to a new contract with Fulham.

That is according to the Evening Standard, which reports that Fulham convinced Palhinha to pen fresh terms that do not include a release clause. The Craven Cottage club confirmed the 28-year-old had committed his future until 2028 after a move to Bayern Munich fell through.

Fulham also hold an option to extend the Portugal midfielder's time in west London up until June 2029. But Bayern Munich do retain an interest in securing Palhinha's transfer after they failed to on deadline day. Der FCB could move for his signature again in the January window.

Palhinha's new Fulham contract does not have a release clause
Bayern Munich hoped to beat the window slamming shut after offering Fulham £56m for his last-gasp transfer. Palhinha even travelled to Bavaria and underwent a medical for the record Bundesliga champions. Yet after posing with an FCB shirt, the midfielder then had to return.

Only two weeks passed between his transfer to Bayern Munich collapsing and Fulham giving Palhinha the new contract. It settles his immediate future and will strengthen the Cottagers' resolve in the void of a release clause. But it does not ensure he will not leave west London.



https://www.rousingthekop.com/2023/09/16/liverpool-face-new-challenge-to-sign-jurgen-klopps-phenomenal-56m-top-target/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham 1-0 Luton Town: Analysis
Tim Oscroft, BBC Sport

The Hatters will leave west London wondering what might have been, having spurned several chances to score despite spending long periods absorbing pressure from the home side.

Tahith Chong shot straight at Bernd Leno after just four minutes, and Carlton Morris fired wide of the target from a tight angle 20 minutes later.

The miss from Morris was followed by Jacob Brown's effort on to the woodwork, the recent signing from Stoke hitting the post when left unmarked from Issa Kabore's cross from the right.

Luton started the second half promisingly, with Amari'i Bell shooting wide from Brown's cross, and another fine chance went begging in stoppage time when Tom Lockyer's glancing header flew wide of the target from inside the area.

Rob Edwards' side were a menace on the break throughout, but must start capitalising on those rare chances having become just the second side to lose the first four games in their first Premier League season after Swindon Town in 1993-94.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/articles/c3gwk3lwd37o