Fulham’s run of four games without defeat has seen them safe and they can start planning for another year in the Championship. Survival obviously was not their aim at the beginning of the season, being the pre-season favourites to win the title and make an immediate return to the top flight. A lot of water has passed under the bridge since then, however, and the way their season has transpired means that avoiding relegation can be deemed a success, of some sort. Last weekend’s win over Blackpool was their first victory six games but they have not won at Craven Cottage since the 28th of February. Since then they have lost three and drawn two. This will be their final home game of the campaign and the players and coaching staff will all want to sign off with a win.
We do not have long to wait in order to find out, but Middlesborough’s win away to Norwich last week could prove to be their most significant win in many a year. The three points gained at Carrow Road lifts them above Norwich and level on points with second placed Bournemouth. It was defeats away to the Cherries and Watford in the past month that looked like curtailing the automatic promotion challenge but they turned in a performance last week, which has been symptomatic of their season. It might not have been pretty but it was extremely effective and a performance full of endeavour, discipline and one that was defensively sound. If they can manage a win on Saturday then it sets them up for a huge finale at home to Brighton next weekend.
This summer could signal a lot of turnover, both in terms of management and playing staff. Standards have certainly not been reached and with ambitious owner Shadid Khan calling the shots, it wouldn’t be a massive surprise to see a massive clear-out. Before that, they can still have a massive say in the automatic promotion as their final game of the season see’s them travel to Norwich. Their record against the top sides leaves a lot to be desired, however. Recently, they have conceded four and five at home to Brentford and Bournemouth respectively.
Even though they have scored the fewest number of goals of the top seven (27 fewer them Bournemouth who they are level on points with), Middlesborough have enjoyed a terrific season. Their defensive displays have obviously been the main strength, which is no surprise with a former top-class defender as manager, but that should not detract from the talent and qualify Patrick Bamford has show during his loan spell. The Chelsea striker won the Championship Player of the Year award after scoring 17 goals this season.
Fulham have already lost heavily at home to Brentford, Bournemouth and Watford this season but their supporters will point to wins against Derby and Norwich. It illustrates how inconsistent they have been this season but you have to question how motivated they will be now their safety has been assured. Aitor Karanka’s men will take great confidence from their win last weekend but it will only mean something if they can win their next two. Even that may not be enough for them to go up automatically but it remains a necessity. They have not been as good on their travels as they are at home but I think three points hear are well within their reach.
Middlesborough 3/4 @ William Hill
