Julien gaffe cuts to core FULHAM
JULIEN De Sart put through his own net to let a subdued Fulham back into match after a fast start from Middlesbrough
David Nugent had given the visitors an early lead with a headed goal but, despite goalkeeper Brad Guzan’s heroics, midfielder De Sart scored an own-goal in the second half to send the match to extra-time.
Middlesbrough went into the match on a high after a first Premier League victory since promotion at Sunderland – and with manager Aitor Karanka insisting beating Fulham in the EFL Cup was “a priority”.
He did, nevertheless, make six changes, leaving the Sunday’s two-goal hero Cristhian Stuani on the bench, while Fulham followed suit, fielding a team with 10 changes, including finding a place for 17-year-old midfielder Dennis Adeniran.
It was not long before Slavisa Jokanovic’s side were in trouble, Brazilian full-back Fabio crossing from the left for David Nugent to glance home a header from close string of clubs said to be interested in signing talented teenager Ryan Sessegnon.
Fulham did create chances, however. They should have equalised after 24 minutes when a cross from the right found Cauley Woodrow with space to shoot from close range but Guzan saved with his feet.
Jokanovic’s side then stepped up a gear after the break and the equaliser came after 54 minutes following a flowing move that ended with Guzan making a stunning save from Scott Malone’s shot, only for the ball to rebound into the goal off De Sart for a cruel own goal.
Five minutes later Fulham almost snatched the win, but this time Guzan was able to tip Woodrow’s effort over the bar, and Fulham were well on top when the match went to extra-time.
FULHAM (4-3-3): Booked: MIDDLESBROUGH (4-2-3-1): Booked: Referee: Goal: Goal: