A Harry Arter wonder goal just before the interval secured Fulham an important victory in the Championship. They defeated promotion rivals Nottingham Forest 1-0 at the City Ground.
Harry Arter Wonder Goal Gives Fulham the Points in Championship Promotion Battle
Nervy Match
There were few and far chances in this match, with the first big chance of the match coming in the 15th minute. A casual error from Tim Ream allowed Forest top scorer Lewis Grabban through on goal, but he squandered his opportunity.
Fulham also had a great chance midway through the first half. Bobby Decordova-Reid spotted Reds’ keeper Brice Samba off his line and decided to have a crack from 30 yards, but his shot just crept over the bar.
Then there were two big moments before half-time. Some nice link-up play between Forest’s two men on the right flank, Joe Lolley and Matty Cash, resulted in a cross to Grabban, but the striker couldn’t connect.
Just seconds the break, the deadlock was broken. Harry Arter attempted a one-two with Harrison Reed, but instead, his pass was returned to him by Forest’s Ben Watson. From that, he hit one with the left foot and struck it beautifully in the top corner.
There were few and far chances in the second 45, but it was Forest with the better of them. Ten minutes from time, Samba played it long to Nuno Da Costa, whose headed almost caught out Fulham Keeper Marek Rodak, but he was able to get two hands to it.
Fulham then brought on Anthony Knockaert before the end. The Frenchman renowned for his attacking ability played more of a defensive game.
This was highlighted just before the end when right at the death the ball fell to Grabban. He went for goal, but the Frenchman made a vital block, which gave Fulham all three points.
That win moves Fulham within four points of West Bromwich Albion in second.
Thoughts on the Game
Many predictions said there wouldn’t be much between the two sides, and that was the case. In truth both sides were cautious in their approach, hoping to beat them on the counter.
Arter was the man who gave his manager, and brother in law, Scott Parker, a vital victory in what was always due to be a close encounter.
Fulham defended very well and frustrated Sabri Lamouchi’s men, who were unable to exploit a well organised Fulham defence.
What may also worry Lamouchi is that Joe Lolley had to go off at the break. The winger went down twice in the match, something he will hope is not serious.
It’s a huge week for both however, Forest face Preston and Swansea in the next seven days, while Fulham take on in-form Cardiff and West Brom.
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