Symons praises players despite defeat

Caretaker Fulham boss Kit Symons says he could not have hoped for a better reaction from his players in the short time he has been in charge.

He took over from the sacked Felix Magath less than 48 hours before 10-man Fulham were beaten at home by Blackburn.

Symons declared his interest in the full-time job ahead of the game and believes he has started making a case for himself despite the 1-0 defeat.

“I like to think that’s a start,” he said.

“The decision will be ultimately geared round results but with performances and application like that the results will come.

“I’m bitterly disappointed not to get anything from the game, but not despondent. I said to the players I was very proud of their performance.

“We tried to change it after going down to 10 men and it didn’t quite work, but I could not have asked for more.

“I’ve got a lot to work to do, I’m going to be a busy guy in training but the reaction from the players in two days has been brilliant. If we keep getting that then we’ll work our way up the league.”

Defender Shaun Hutchinson was sent off for a dangerous challenge on Lee Williamson just before half-time.

Williamson has avoided serious injury but Symons said: “It was a straight red, no doubt about it. The best thing is Lee is okay.

“It was a poor tackle and Shaun knew it. But there’s no malice in Shaun at all and he was distraught at half-time. But he’ll move on and he’ll be fine.”

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