Match Analysis

Fulham 1-1 West Ham: Detailed Analysis

Match Overview

The Premier League clash between Fulham and West Ham on September 14, 2024, ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw. The match, held at Craven Cottage, saw Fulham dominate for most of the game, only for West Ham to snatch a point with a last-gasp equalizer from Danny Ings in the 95th minute. This analysis will delve into the key moments, tactical setups, and individual performances that shaped the outcome of this London derby.

Final Score

Fulham 1-1 West Ham

Goals:

Fulham: Raul Jimenez (First Half)
West Ham: Danny Ings (95th Minute)

Key Moments and Analysis

First Half

Fulham's Dominance

Fulham started the match on the front foot, displaying a high level of intensity and pressing that kept West Ham pinned in their own half. The trio of Emile Smith Rowe, Andreas Pereira, and Alex Iwobi were particularly effective, using their smart footwork and quick passing to create numerous chances.

Raul Jimenez's Goal: The breakthrough came when Sasa Lukic found Smith Rowe with a precise pass. Smith Rowe managed to keep the ball in play and delivered a cut-back through the legs of Konstantinos Mavropanos, allowing Raul Jimenez to tap in at the near post. This goal was a testament to Fulham's well-executed game plan and their ability to exploit West Ham's defensive frailties.

Controversial Moments

Penalty Shout: Adama Traore was a constant threat on the break and had a strong penalty appeal turned down when Max Kilman appeared to shove him in the box. Referee Tim Robinson deemed the contact minimal, much to the dismay of Fulham's fans and manager Marco Silva, who was booked for his protests.

Second Half

Tactical Adjustments

West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui made several changes at halftime to stem the tide of Fulham's dominance. Crysencio Summerville and Lucas Paqueta were introduced to add more creativity and control in midfield.

West Ham's Improved Play: These changes helped West Ham gain a foothold in the game, and they started to look more dangerous around the hour mark. Jarrod Bowen, who was moved to a central role after Michail Antonio was substituted, had a close-range effort saved by Bernd Leno following a cross from Mohammed Kudus.

Injuries and Substitutions

West Ham's Injuries: The Hammers were without their new No. 9, Niclas Fullkrug, due to an injury sustained while on international duty. Additionally, Emerson Palmieri had to be substituted due to a knee injury, with Vladimir Coufal coming on as his replacement.
Fulham's Defensive Solidity: Despite these changes, Fulham's defense, marshaled by Calvin Bassey and Joachim Andersen, held firm for most of the second half. Bassey, in particular, was impressive in dealing with West Ham's aerial threats.

Late Drama

Danny Ings' Equalizer

As the game entered its final stages, West Ham ramped up the pressure, winning several corners and free-kicks. Lopetegui's decision to bring on Danny Ings for the final ten minutes proved to be a masterstroke.

The Goal: In the 95th minute, Jarrod Bowen managed to pick out Ings between Andersen and Bassey. Ings, who had been a disappointment for West Ham until this point, rifled home a dramatic equalizer to rescue a point for the Hammers. This was Ings' first goal since March, and it came at a crucial moment.

Fulham's Missed Opportunity

Bassey's Miss: In the dying seconds, Calvin Bassey had a chance to regain the lead for Fulham but missed a header from close range. This miss summed up Fulham's frustration, as they had been the better side for most of the match but failed to secure all three points.