Fulham missed the chance to capitalise and move within touching distance of the Championship summit last Wednesday evening as they were held to a goalless draw with Charlton.
Without top-goalscorer Alexsander Mitrovic and his replacement Aboubakar Kamara, Fulham failed to break down a resolute Addicks defence in a frustrating night in south-east London.
With their automatic promotion rivals Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion both dropping points in the latest round of fixtures, it was the perfect opportunity to move ever closer to the top of the table. But alas, they came away from Wednesday’s London derby frustrated.
Highlights: Charlton 0-0 Fulham
Charlton’s Resilience
In Lee Bowyer’s first game since signing a new three-year contract, his side managed to keep a rare and well-earned clean sheet.
Fulham took hold of early proceedings and dominated possession, but failed to show anything from their consistent pressure as Charlton’s shot-stopper Dillion Phillips made straight forward saves from the visitors’ Bobby Reid.
Fulham clearly missed summer signing and creative spark, Anthony Knockaert, as they failed to carve out any real openings.
Charlton went close on the hour mark as Mark Rodak made a decent, albeit routine save to deny Alfie Doughty. From that save, Bryan then tried his luck but once again Phillips saved it with immense comfort.
Fulham’s Frustration
After a busy winter schedule, Scott Parker was left with limited options on the bench and even opted to give youngster Jay Stansfield his league debut as he tried to nick a late winner.
Despite an underwhelming display, Fulham remain third following Reading’s draw with Nottingham Forest.
Although it most certainly feels two points dropped for the Cottagers despite gaining a point on the front-runners.
Good Chances Missed
Speaking exclusively to Sky, Scott Parker said, “The game was one or two big chances. It was a one-nil game if you take a chance.
“We had some good control so initially, I was quite disappointed but it was our third clean sheet in a row and if you don’t win the game, you certainly don’t lose it.
“That is the biggest positive. I have sat here many times this year after having a lot of control and we have come away with a defeat because they have hit us on the break, I thought we looked pretty solid.”
