Fulham got the win they badly needed in Wednesday’s derby at Craven Cottage. Here’s how we rated the players in their 3-1 victory over West Ham.
Mark Schwarzer: 8
Dominant in the air and produced a crucial save to prevent a second equaliser when he dived to his left to deny Kevin Nolan.
Sascha Riether: 8
Back to his best after a couple of below-par displays recently. Got forward well as usual and produced a couple of superb tackles.
Phillipe Senderos: 5
Recalled in place of Aaron Hughes and did little to convince his many doubters. Hesitant at times and fortunate not to concede a penalty for handball. Also allowed Nolan to slip away from him in the second half but Fulham were rescued by Schwarzer’s fine save.
Brede Hangeland: 7
No-nonsense defending from the reliable centre-back, who did his job and organised the defence well.
John Arne Riise: 7
Defended well and offered an attacking outlet down the left-hand side.
Damien Duff: 8
Set up two of Fulham’s goals and his delivery from the left for Hugo Rodallega’s header was excellent.
Steve Sidwell: 7
Had his work cut out against a physically strong West Ham side and performed a vital role, sitting deep and protecting the back four. Closed down well and used the ball sensibly.
Giorgos Karagounis: 6
Useful with the ball but too easy for West Ham to play through as they pushed forward, especially in the second half.
Hugo Rodallega: 7
Full of running down the left and did brilliantly to score, beating three defenders to connect with Duff’s cross to put Fulham back in front – a crucial moment in the game.
Bryan Ruiz: 5
Well short of his best. Dispossessed a number of times before being taken off in the second half.
Dimitar Berbatov: 7
Looked offside for his goal but took it well. Produced moments of sheer class as usual. He was at fault for West Ham’s goal though, reacting too slowly and allowing Nolan time to pick his spot.
Chris Baird: 6
Did a solid job after coming on for Karagounis midway through the second half.
Ashkan Dejagah: 6
Added some pace and directness in attack when he was brought off the bench.
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This post was last modified on 31/01/2013