Fulham ended their losing start to the Premier League season with a hard-earned point from a 0-0 draw at Liverpool's Anfield. The result on Saturday moves Alvaro Arbeloa's side up to 18th place with one point from their opening four matches.
A resilient defensive display
The Cottagers, who had conceded seven goals in their first three league games, produced a far more disciplined performance to frustrate the hosts. While Liverpool dominated possession, Fulham's organised shape limited clear chances and the visitors even threatened on the counter-attack late on. Joshua King, the 19-year-old midfielder who has scored against Chelsea and Crystal Palace this term, forced a save from the edge of the box in the closing stages.
Building from a difficult start
Fulham arrived at Anfield on the back of three consecutive league defeats, the most recent a 3-2 home loss to Crystal Palace. That left them bottom of the table, but this resilient display provides a platform. "What was lacking was quite clear," manager Alvaro Arbeloa said, referencing the improved defensive solidity. "We are building up his physical condition," he added regarding one of his players. The point means Fulham are now just one point from safety, though they remain 11 points adrift of leaders Arsenal.
Looking ahead to United
The focus now shifts to Craven Cottage, where Fulham host Manchester United next Saturday. United currently sit 13th, making it a key opportunity for Arbeloa's team to build momentum. Captain Tom Cairney remains sidelined for that fixture. Fans can check the full schedule on the club's fixtures page and see how the table shapes up in the standings. Fulham's next challenge is to turn a solid away point into a first league win of the campaign.
Fulham felt they should have had a penalty when goalkeeper Alisson Becker tackled Joshua King in the first half, according to The 42. The incident occurred after Alisson's pass put Ryan Gravenberch under pressure, allowing Sander Berge to steal possession. King then found Gonzalo Garcia, whose shot was blocked on the line by Jeremy Jacquet. The 42 reports that Fulham, who have scored four goals and conceded seven this season, were the brighter side for much of the goalless draw at Anfield on Saturday.
