Lookman puts Fulham a step closer to safety
FULHAM boss Scott Parker said he was “proud” of his team after they beat rock-bottom Sheffield United on Saturday.
Ademola Lookman broke the deadlock for the Cottagers in the 61st minute, with the home side going on to secure only their fourth win of the season.
United had a penalty shout in the final minutes of the game when home goalkeeper Alphonse Areola dived out to deny Jayden Bogle, which was waved away by referee Martin Atkinson and VAR.
Scott Parker’s men went into the game six points adrift of Newcastle in 17th but have closed the gap to just three, with the Magpies losing at Manchester United on Sunday.
They also recorded only their second home victory of the season, with the first coming in November, to the delight of the manager.
“I’m very proud of the team in terms of what I asked them tonight and what I’ve asked them this week to be quite honest with you,” Parker said.
“It’s been a tough week in terms of the games we’ve had to play, the travel we’ve had to do, and I think we all understood tonight what this game was and what it was about.
“I’m very proud that the message to the team before the game was us, let’s focus on us, let’s not listen to the noise that’s been created around this game, because throughout this year there’s been one sole focus and that’s been us. That’s been my constant message.
“I know with that and us showing our quality and our freedom we’ll get results really – and I think that was proven tonight.”