The Tanner Report

This 4-0 thumping of Sheffield Wednesday was arguably the performance of the season. Wednesday had only conceded 16 goals all season so to let in 25% of that sum  was always something. Yet as much praise must go to our defence which has kept a clean sheet two games running. Football is such an odd game, as  if you asked a supporter why Dan Burn was excluded 3 months ago he would give no explanation and if you asked him if Shaun Hutchinson was a worthwhile transfer, the answer would be negative. Yet in these last two games Burn has been omitted and Hutchinson has been excellent, even scoring a goal yesterday.

It proved a game that Fulham eventually dominated after a cagey start in which the visitors had the better chances. Both first half goals came from set pieces: a powerful direct free kick by McCormack and Hutchinson’s header. The best goal was the third. One thing the Italians do much better than us is the counterattack. However Fulham’s goal was a masterclass in moement and passing on the break, culminatiing in a clinical  finish by Christensen, his fifth of the season, an impressive tally for a midfielder. Justice was done in the fourth when Woodrow converted a penalty, as he was manifestly pulled down earlier in the penalty area only for the referee to waive play on.

I always find the Chairman’s column in the programme instructive. Although it may not be penned by him one can assume it reflects his thoughts and he admitted to seeking a better connection with the fans, even quoting from a letter he received from one outlining Fulham’s expectations and way of doing their business. The appointment of Favid Daly, a true fan, on the selection committee reflects a much greater awareness, empathy and response. I hear chairman Khan wants to be loved and he is certainly rising in our affections as solidly as we move up the table.

On Boxing Day we go to high flying Bournemouth where we are taking up all our tickets. Fulham is on the move again.