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Roy Hodgson, who had missed Crystal Palace’s previous match due to illness, returned to the dugout for their game against Fulham. Despite his comeback, the match ended in a dull stalemate, leaving both teams level on points in the Premier League mid-table.
The first half saw Fulham take control, pressing high and testing Palace’s goalkeeper Sam Johnstone with shots from Andreas Pereira and Willian. Palace struggled to create chances, with only flashes of skill from Eberechi Eze providing moments of excitement for the home fans.
It took 32 minutes for Palace to register their first shot on target, a free-kick from Eze that was comfortably saved by Bernd Leno. Fulham had their best opportunity of the half when Pereira’s pass found Raul Jimenez, but Johnstone made a crucial save to deny him.
The most dramatic moment in the first half occurred when Joachim Andersen collided with Pereira off the ball, leading to theatrics from the latter. Palace ended the half with Eze curling a shot just wide of the post.
The second half didn’t offer much improvement in terms of excitement. Palace had a penalty appeal turned down by VAR after Eze felt he was fouled by Harrison Reed. Fulham had a chance to counter-attack, but Jimenez’s ball across the goal couldn’t find Pereira.
Hodgson attempted to inject some attacking impetus by bringing on Jean-Philippe Mateta, but it had little impact. Fulham had the best chance to break the deadlock late in the game when Willian had a clear opportunity, but he shot straight at Johnstone, reflecting the overall lack of quality in the match.