Sessegnon steals the show in ‘crazy’ nine-goal classic

Ryan Sessegnon’s first senior hattrick inspired Fulham to a stunning win, in a game described as “crazy” by their manager Slavisa Jokanovic.

The 17-year-old was the star of the show in an extraordinary, wideopen contest that will stay in the memory of those present. Fulham led 3-2 at half-time, then looked like they had won the game by establishing a 5-2 lead with less than five minutes left. Sheffield United struck two late blows, though, to set up an incredible finish.

United arrived looking to go top of the table, but Sessegnon – who is attracting interest from the Premier League – outsmarted them. His manager knew what was coming in the post-match press conference.

Jokanovic said: “It’s always the same question – Ryan, Ryan, Ryan. He is growing up in the right direction.” Fulham’s Sheyi Ojo, the 20-year-old on loan from Liverpool, deservedly scored their other two.

It meant the young talents upstaged a shrewd veteran – United’s 32-year-old Leon Clarke, who scored a hat-trick, taking his tally to eight in three matches.

The tone for the match was set early on when Clarke struck after goalkeeper David Button spilt the ball. Fulham recovered when Ojo pounced on a Cameron Cartervickers blunder before slotting in. Sessegnon then charged forward and curled home.

More drama arrived before the break. First, United equalised as Clarke evaded Tim Ream and fired home. Sessegnon refused to be outdone, though, volleying in another.

In the second half, Fulham raced clear when Ojo squeezed the ball in, before Sessegnon struck his third. Samir Carruthers pulled one back though with a deflected effort, before Clarke set up a thrilling finale. United manager Chris Wilder said: “If a team wins here, we have to make them go through the mill. Fulham deserved it.”

Sheffield United

Subs Booked Fulham Referee