Silva frustrated but predicts Fulham will improve

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Marco Silva was left frustrated following Fulham’s 1-1 draw against Middlesbrough – but the Whites head coach insisted there is better to come from his side.

Fulham had control of their first 2021-22 Championship game at Craven Cottage, thanks to an excellent goal by the impressive Harry Wilson in the 29th minute.

However, a strike by Boro midfielder Marc Bola with 13 minutes to go earned the Teessiders a point.

New boss Silva saw Fulham create opportunities in the second half – but both Aleksandar Mitrovic and Neeskens Kabano failed to add to the lead, and Neil Warnock’s side subsequently took advantage.


“We had some good moments, and I took positives from the game, but it was unfortunate we didn’t get the result, but that is football,” said Silva.

“We had chances to be more clinical. I believe we had at the beginning of the second half we did well. We had some chances and were dominant.

“In general, we had a good performance. But the last 15 minutes it was difficult for us. The attitude was there, and we had some good moments and our fans deserved three points.

“They had one chance and they scored, which caused problems for us. But we have finished the first Championship game and it is a long journey for all (teams), not just us.”

Wilson scored on his Fulham debut

While Silva was disappointed, he feels Fulham will grow stronger in the next few weeks.

The Whites will travel to Huddersfield Town next weekend.

Silva added: “For sure in some weeks our team will be stronger, I have no doubt about that.

“But they did a good job, and the young players did well. The Championship is very physical, but we have to be able to adapt. We have enough players who know what it means.

Silva also praised Wales international Wilson for his contribution in what was the winger’s first competitive outing for Fulham.

“The finish was really good and the way he moved was really good,” Silva said.

“In his performance he did well and in general he looks really fit. I am 100% sure he’ll improve in the next few weeks, especially after his time with the national team.”