Fulham vs West Ham

Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 2:00 PM UTC

Match Analysis

Fulham vs West Ham: Premier League 2024 Match Analysis

Final Score: Fulham 1-1 West Ham

Overview

The Premier League clash between Fulham and West Ham at Craven Cottage on September 14, 2024, ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw. Raul Jimenez opened the scoring for Fulham in the first half, but a last-gasp equalizer from Danny Ings ensured that West Ham left with a point. The match was marked by contentious refereeing decisions, tactical adjustments, and a tale of two halves.

First Half: Fulham's Dominance

Fulham started the match brightly, showcasing their attacking prowess through the likes of Emile Smith Rowe, Alex Iwobi, and Adama Traore. The home side's fluidity and creativity were evident as they dominated possession and created several scoring opportunities.

Key Moments:

  • Penalty Controversy: In the 16th minute, Adama Traore was brought down in the box by Max Kilman. Fulham's appeals for a penalty were waved off by referee Tim Robinson, a decision that was upheld by VAR. This incident left Fulham manager Marco Silva fuming, as he believed it was a clear penalty and a red card offense.
  • Opening Goal: Fulham's persistence paid off in the 24th minute when Raul Jimenez scored his first Premier League goal of the season. Emile Smith Rowe, who was instrumental throughout the match, kept the ball in play near the byline and delivered a precise cut-back to Jimenez, who slotted the ball past Alphonse Areola.

Fulham's Tactical Setup:

  • Formation: 4-2-3-1
  • Key Players: Emile Smith Rowe (Player of the Match), Alex Iwobi, Adama Traore, Raul Jimenez
  • Strategy: Fulham's strategy revolved around quick transitions, exploiting the flanks, and utilizing the creative abilities of Smith Rowe and Iwobi. The full-backs, particularly Antonee Robinson, provided width and supported the attack effectively.

Second Half: West Ham's Resurgence

West Ham struggled in the first half, failing to register a shot on target. However, manager Julen Lopetegui made crucial substitutions that changed the dynamics of the game.

Key Moments:

  • Substitutions: Lopetegui introduced Lucas Paqueta and Crysencio Summerville at halftime, which added much-needed creativity and energy to West Ham's attack. Danny Ings was brought on in the 82nd minute as a final throw of the dice.
  • Equalizer: In the 95th minute, Jarrod Bowen's cross found Danny Ings, who created a yard of space and fired a shot past Bernd Leno to secure a point for West Ham. This goal was Ings' first league goal since March and highlighted his poacher's instinct.

West Ham's Tactical Adjustments:

  • Formation: 4-2-3-1
  • Key Players: Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paqueta, Crysencio Summerville, Danny Ings
  • Strategy: West Ham's second-half strategy focused on pressing higher up the pitch, increasing the tempo, and utilizing the creative talents of Paqueta and Summerville. Bowen's switch to a central role also provided a focal point for their attacks.

Refereeing Decisions and Controversies

The match was marred by several contentious refereeing decisions:

  • Penalty Incident: The decision not to award a penalty for Kilman's challenge on Traore was heavily criticized by Marco Silva. He argued that it was a clear penalty and a red card, which would have significantly impacted the game.
  • VAR Involvement: VAR upheld the on-field decision, leading to frustration among Fulham players and fans.

Player Performances

  • Fulham:

    • Emile Smith Rowe: The standout performer, providing the assist for Jimenez's goal and consistently troubling West Ham's defense.
    • Raul Jimenez: Scored the opening goal and was a constant threat in the box.
    • Adama Traore: His pace and power caused problems for West Ham, although he missed a couple of key chances.

  • West Ham:

    • Danny Ings: Came off the bench to score the crucial equalizer, demonstrating his value as a super-sub.
    • Jarrod Bowen: Provided the assist for Ings' goal and worked tirelessly throughout the match.
    • Lucas Paqueta and Crysencio Summerville: Their introductions added creativity and urgency to West Ham's play.

Managerial Insights

  • Marco Silva (Fulham): Silva was visibly frustrated with the refereeing decisions and lamented his team's inability to convert dominance into a decisive lead. He emphasized the need for his