Player ratings vs Fulham

Steve Harper (6) - Did not have that much to do in truth, although he was left exposed for the goal.

Habib Beye (6) - Not really one of his better games, got himself isolated a few times but always tried hard and showed great commitment as always.

Steven Taylor (7) - He defended well for most of the game, although he can share some of the blame for their goal. Apart from that he was our best defender on the day.

Sebastien Bassong (5) - Made the wrong decision to foul Kamara when so far from goal to get sent off. Still a class act at the back, just needs to know when to do certain things and when not to do certain things.

Damien Duff (7.5) - Had a really good game for me. He defended well surprisingly while he also gave us some impetus going forward. The fact that Lovenkrands came on to play left back so that Duff could push forward showed that Duff was one of our more dangerous players on the day.

Danny Guthrie (7) - He had a reasonable game and was unlucky to be taken off. Delivered some good set pieces while worked hard in midfield.

Nicky Butt (6) - He gave away the ball far too much. I admit he does win a few tackles but his passing was just not up to scratch.

Kevin Nolan (5.5) - For me he should have been substituted instead of Guthrie. Looked slow and gave the ball away a few times I can remember. Should be replaced for next week.

Jonas Gutierrez (6.5) - He attacked well and looked dangerous. Seemed to get tired though in the 2nd half, but did cause Fulham problems when driving at their defence.

Obafemi Martins (7.5) - Was unlucky to hit the post, while also did well to create a chance in the 2nd half which he nearly scored from. Ran hard and worked tirelessly even when not 100% fit and deserves lots of praise for his efforts.

Mark Viduka (6) - Was unlucky to have his goal disallowed but otherwise he had a poor game. Wasn't as effective as against Boro, while he was rightfully taken off.

Substitutes

Ryan Taylor (5.5) - Made little impact when coming on.

Peter Lovenkrands (N/A) - Not quite sure why he was asked to fill in at left back when his pace could have been used better.

Andy Carroll (7) - Won a great header towards the end which almost resulted in a goal.

Positives
* None

Negatives
* Destiny no longer in our hands.
* Owen injury before the game.
* Bassong's suspension.
* Luck wasn't on our side.
* The next competitive home game at St. James park could well be a championship match!

Man of the match: Obafemi Martins

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