Fulham snapped a four-match Premier League losing streak with a 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday at Craven Cottage. It was Fulham’s first league victory since September 20. This comeback victory spurted the team into 14th place on the table and certainly provided Marco Silva and his players’ confidence with a shot in the arm.
The match was a statement of Fulham’s attacking intention including the emerging talents of Ryan Sessegnon and Harry Wilson. For the first time, the Wolves couldn’t get their bearings. This mounting winless streak, along with a string of unconvincing performances, only served to heighten the pressure on boss, Vitor Pereira.
Match Breakdown
Fulham blew Leeds away in the first half, with Sessegnon scoring the first of what would ultimately end up being five goals. The goal came after a defensive mix-up between Hugo Bueno and Emmanuel Agbadou allowed Raul Jimenez to slip Sessegnon through on goal. This early lead invigorated Fulham. It was a tone-setting moment, and it provided the energy that allowed them to build on their lead.
Harry Wilson seconds later doubled the advantage with a stunning effort, giving a glimpse of Fulham’s counter attacking threat. The home side continued to dominate the first half, as Wolves were restricted to little in the way of clear cut opportunities. The burden increased on Pereira and his squad as they were unable to reset in midfield and answer danger after danger offered by Fulham’s non-stop offensive.
Wolves scrapped to come back into the game. In the 36th min, calamity struck as Agbadou got a straight red for sliding in on Josh King. Video Assistant Referee Andy Madley upheld the original on-field decision. He found that King had not controlled the ball and decided that Agbadou’s challenge denied Fulham a clear goalscoring opportunity.
“It was the worst. In my opinion. Today I felt my team physically were not in condition, not at the level to face Fulham.” – Vitor Pereira
A Comic Own Goal
Wolverhampton were dealt an even bigger blow when Yerson Mosquera scored an own goal on the half hour mark. Even worse, this needless miscommunication occurred with only 15 minutes remaining in the match. This moment of misfortune compounded Wolves’ woes, sealing a disappointing afternoon for Pereira’s side.
Even after bringing on a trio of substitutes and tactical tweaks, Wolves failed to find a route back into the match. Even that own goal underscored the squad’s lack of cohesion and confidence. They are still searching for their first win of the campaign and currently sit 20th in the Premier League.
Pereira’s management style has been harshly criticized as fans and pundits wonder how he can possibly turn this around. The defeat leaves Wolves winless and adds serious complications to their chances to turn things around for the rest of the season.
Fulham’s Resurgence
For Fulham, this victory was crucial. Silva highlighted the importance of this match in alleviating the pressure on his squad after a dismal run of form.
“Very important for us, definitely. All the conversations with the players in the build-up were about what a big game it was for us after a bad run.” – Marco Silva
The win is a timely reminder of Fulham’s quality in the league, and perhaps there’s more to come. With key players like Kevin, Joachim Andersen, Wilson, and Josh King starting, Silva’s tactics appeared effective as they capitalized on Wolves’ mistakes. Restoring the squad’s confidence, this victory was a cause for jubilation. Just as importantly, it indicates they’re able to build on this positive performance as they look ahead.
As a result of this impressive win, Fulham similarly have jumped back into contention to ascend the Premier League table. Meanwhile, they’re holding Wolverhampton’s leadership feet to the fire, demanding real changes.
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