As Matilda so eloquently put it in her match preview, Fulham FC ain’t nothin’ to mess wit’ in the FA Cup. A side that’s much more in form in this competition that they have been in the Premier League this season and have been averaging a goal every 17 minutes at the Cottage in the Cup. The fixture between Bolton and Fulham is one of only two matches in the fifth round between two Premier League sides. In the last two meetings between the two teams, there have been a total of no goals scored.
Hit the jump for a full match report and highlights!
With Fulham keeping the pressure and possession early, Bolton had to make the most of their chances in the first half. Doing just that, Ivan Klasnic made it count. After some brilliant one and two touch passing on the edge of the penalty before giving it away to Fulham, the ball made its way to Brede Hangeland’s head for a frankly awful clearance. Klasnic hit the ball first time on the volley and into the back of the net for his second goal in four days. 1-0.
Fulham made for a very nervy second half. Bolton were outshot in the game nearly 4-to-1 but some great (although occasionally desperate) defending kept Fulham out of Bolton’s net.
Adam Bogdan was called into action quite a few times and the young goalkeeper did well for himself. Marcos Alonso also stepped in well for the left back position. The Spaniard needs to work on his crosses though, a couple of chances missed thanks to awfully played balls. Stuart Holden was, again, quietly brilliant, making all of the correct tackles and creating a chance or two. Gary Cahill was massive at the back and David Wheater looks a massive signing. Bolton are yet to give up a goal with him in the back line.
Onto the next round where Bolton will travel to face Birimingham City. The two teams drew 2-2 at the Reebok earlier in the year. What a brilliant win off of brilliant defending. Bolton fans should be buzzing today!