Fulham used two wonderful goals to advance to the FA Cup quarter-final over Leeds United. Joao Palhinha and Manor Solomon delivered the goals at Craven Cottage. The game was a microcosm of the idea that talent can make a difference.
After all, for much of the game, Leeds actually put together a lot of the best chances. In fact, Leeds had the first important chance of the game. From a corner, Weston McKennie headed the ball into the Fulham goal. Record signing Georginio Rutter took advantage of Marek Rodák’s rebound to score his first goal for the Whites. However, the goal was returned by a push from Weston McKennie just before his header on goal.
Wilfried Gnonto also had the ball in the back of the net. However, the Italian was sure that he was offside and did not even celebrate the moment. Then, just before the break, Rutter headed past Rodák, but the ball hit the inside of the post.
Stunning Fulham goals knock Leeds out of the FA Cup
Among those, however, there was a gem of a goal from the hosts. Palhinha gained possession of an errant pass from Tyler Adams in the Leeds half. With neither Leeds player able to apply immediate pressure, the Brazilian braced himself for a shot with the inside of his right foot. The power and positioning were enough to get past Illan Meslier, who until then had not faced a shot on goal.
Fulham did not have another shot on goal until the second half. Unfortunately for the French keeper, it was another instance of . Manor Solomon picked up the ball on the left side of the field. The Israeli did a quick one-two with Aleksandar Mitrovic. Solomon then took a bunt and shot to the same left side as Meslier. It went in the same vein, too.
Fulham fell behind in terms of most statistics. However, he led in the only thing that really mattered, the score.
Leeds had a handful of golden opportunities. Brenden Aaronson, who made a big impact coming on as a substitute, sent a volley just wide. There was a goal mouth flurry that somehow didn’t end up in the back of the net.
Fulham’s defence, however, was level in every foray Leeds sent in front in this FA Cup fifth round tie. The main culprit for that was Tim Ream, who had a terrific match against three of his compatriots.
Fulham are through to the FA Cup quarter-finals for the first time since the 2009/10 season. The draw for his opponent is Wednesday night.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Action Plus
