A Double Yeah Day. I managed to make the game and we WON.
The starting line-up was a bit of a surprise and the subs weird. Not as weird though as some of Mr Webb’s decisions and the linesman on the Johnny Haynes side. A key one was the Heitinga cracker that hit the bar (not sure why/if the goal line technology was used but it looked over from where I was) and the subsequent disallowed goal. What a confidence boost that would have been for Cauley Woodrow.
Which is the perfect opportunity to talk about the MOTM. Didn’t he lead the line well; intelligent lay offs, didn’t let himself get bullied and above all great energy. The ground he covered in those last ten minutes, harrying and pressing arguably ensured we got all three points. At the expense of turning this into the Cauley Woodrow column, here are his stats:
Shots: 2, with 1 on target (not including his offside goal)
Passes: 22/28 passes.
Attacking passes: 13/17 - More than any other Fulham player
Take ons: 2 attempted, 1 successful
Ball recoveries: 3 - joint with Kasami
Clearances: 2
Aerial duels: 13 attempted, 3 successful...
Fouls committed: 2
Fouls suffered: 1
When was the last time we had a striker with so much involvement in a game? And well done Felix for retaining confidence in the young man. There is a wee criticism though. But first a confession. At an U21 game last year I was a little vocal about his shooting until that is I discovered his mum was sitting in front of me - mumbled apologies all round. And that’s the small flaw at the moment anyway - he’s not a natural goal scorer. Early on today for instance, he could have had two with a bit more determination. That does not take anything away from a mature and very professional display today however.
David Stockdale was one of the starting surprises. However he ran a very close second to Cauley for my MOTM. Johnny Heitinga also put in a decent shift. William Kvist had some poor touches and worse passing but he gave stability in front of the back four. Beyond them a few dodgy performances I’m afraid. Was particularly worried about Brede in the last 20 minutes and not sure he wasn’t feeling that back injury again.
Fair play to Felix. Some brave selections that in the end paid off. My last word has to be on his subs though and particularly that Dan Burn one into central midfield!?