Fulham v Cardiff player ratings
Fulham boss Martin Jol came under more fire from angry fans on another disappointing afternoon for the Whites at Craven Cottage. Here’s how we rated the players in their 2-1 defeat against Cardiff.
David Stockdale: 7
Tipped over Ben Turner’s header and made a late save from Nicky Maynard, but could do nothing about Jordon Mutch’s thunderbolt which won the game in stoppage time.
Sascha Riether: 7
Put in some telling crosses, including one which was almost converted by Dimitar Berbatov, but was also kept busy defensively by Cardiff’s hard-working midfield.
Brede Hangeland: 6
Won’t remember his 200th Premier League appearance fondly, with he and the defence unable to pick up Steven Caulker for Cardiff’s opener. Atoned with a good block shortly afterwards to keep a vibrant Cardiff at bay.
Fernando Amorebieta: 6
The Venezuelan was steady on his first Craven Cottage start but will have to take part of the collective defensive responsibility, with boss Martin Jol unhappy with how they were often dominated in the air.
Kieran Richardson: 6
Looked bright coming forward and sent in a brilliant late cross, which flashed dangerously across goal, but was outmuscled by Mutch in the build-up to Cardiff’s winner.
Pajtim Kasami: 7
As Fulham improved after the break, the Swiss midfielder was keen to get forward and have a crack at goal, shooting straight at David Marshall with his best opportunity.
Steve Sidwell: 6
Was outjumped by Caulker as the Cardiff defender headed home the opener but was quick to react to deflect Andrew Taylor’s header shortly afterwards as Cardiff’s set-pieces caused consternation. Had to work even harder than usual with the visitors’ diamond formation flooding the centre.
Alex Kacaniklic: 6
Struggled to really make an impression down the left flank and was sacrificed a few minutes before half-time for Bryan Ruiz.
Dimitar Berbatov: 6
Returned to play just behind Darren Bent and although there were signs of a partnership flowering, it will still need a bit of work. The Bulgarian went closest when he nodded over from a tight angle from Riether’s delivery.
Darren Bent: 6
Started brightly and was also part of some clever link-up play as Fulham got a foothold in the game during the second half. However, he was unable to make an impact in the box, with Caulker and defensive partner Turner dominant, and was replaced by Adel Taarabt late on.
Giorgious Karagounis: 7
Was involved at both ends of the pitch in the first half, making a strong block from Gary Medel’s shot and then seeing a stinging shot saved by City keeper Marshall. Worked hard to try and break Cardiff’s rhythm.
Bryan Ruiz: 7
Made an immediate impact on his return from injury, scoring a stunning equaliser moments after coming on for Kacaniklic. The Costa Rican was never likely to live up to those standards thereafter but was on his toes throughout as Fulham tried to build up a head of second-half steam.
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