Fulham edge closer towards securing promotion to the Premier League after sealing a 2-0 away win over Cardiff City in the first leg of the Championship Playoffs. It was an evenly matched contest in the first half, but inspired second-half goals from John Onomah and Neeskens Kebano helped the Cotaggers seal an important victory ahead of the second leg on Thursday.
Fulham Players Rated In Win Over Cardiff City
Marek Rodak 8/10
Marek Rodak made two very important saves in the first half to prevent Cardiff City from finding the opener. His second-half save was also important as Fulham muster a huge advantage.
Cyrus Christie 7.5/10
Cyrus Christie had an eventful first half, often going forward and joining Anthony Knockaert in the attack. He provided a lot of offensive support, but played in a deeper role in the second half in order to add more balance to the side.
Michael Hector 8.5/10
Michael Hector’s incredible clearance in the first half was perhaps the most important moment in this fixture. Indeed, the game could have panned out differently if he was not present at that time. A solid defensive display from the ex-Eintracht Frankfurt man.
Tim Ream 8/10
Tim Ream provided Hector with some excellent defensive support throughout the course of the game. The American also looked composed on the ball, ultimately helping Fulham preserve the clean sheet.
Joe Bryan 8/10
Joe Bryan enjoyed an excellent game this evening. His forays down the flank caused a lot of problems for the Cardiff City defenders while he was also full of determination. A brilliant display.
Harrison Reed 7.5/10
Harrison Reed was everywhere on the pitch this evening. But mainly, the Southampton midfielder played a key role in the number six position, dropping deep when necessary and helping Fulham out in the build-up phases. Also went forward whenever it was required, helping his team dominate the game.
Tom Cairney 7.5/10
Tom Cairney had a relatively quiet first-half by his standards. However, the midfielder was one of the best performers after the restart as he received more freedom that allowed him to create chances in the final third. A top display.
Anthony Knockaert 6.5/10
Knockaert was a little off with his final ball today. The ex-Leicester City star tried to make things happen with his trickery on the far side, but he simply wasn’t productive enough.
Josh Onomah 9/10
Josh Onomah had a quiet first half. But, it was his brilliant solo effort that led to the all-important opener. The ex-Tottenham forward also looked lively not only with the ball, but also without it as he made clever runs and occupied available spaces.
Neeskens Kebano 9.5/10
Kebano was by far the most influential player this evening. Right from the start, the Fulham winger looked really lively, often trying to cut inside from the wide position in order to test the goalkeeper. He did that throughout the course of the game and at the end, his efforts paid off as the 28-year-old scored through a magnificent free-kick.
Bobby De Cordova Reid 8/10
Bobby de Cordova Reid’s phenomenal work-rate throughout the game personified Fulham’s style of play. From a tactical perspective, it was important in allowing more freedom to the likes of Onomah and Cairney. Reid was also close to scoring as well, but his effort went wide.
SUBSTITUTES
Aboubakar Kamara N/A
Replaced the ineffective Knockaert in the 81st minute as Scott Parker opted for fresh legs.
Denis Odoi
A late replacement for the MOTM Kebano. N/A
