Team Overview: Fulham finally got rid of most of its Yanks, and it was rewarded with its best season in years – perhaps ever (we aren’t that good at your “European football”, I guess). The Cottagers moved up ten spots in the rankings (17th, and just outside relegation, to 7th) and they were good enough to qualify for Europe next year.
Top Performers: Without Brian McBride to lead on the attack, the Cottagers turned to fellow American Clint Dempsey, who had seven goals and 2 assists. Andrew Johnson, the scrappy forward, also had a decent year with 7 goals. But, it was Mark Schwarzer, Fulham’s amazing GK, who deserves the most honors with his .90 GAA.
Highest Highs: Fulham finished high because they started out so hot. In fact, at one point, they didn’t suffer a loss in 10 straight games (November 1st until January 18th). The run was due to Schwarzer’s immaculate keeping. He was so good, he only gave up six goals in two and a half months. It was due to him that their defense looked so good.
Lowest Lows: The Cottagers had so many highs this year, that it’s hard to pick a lowest low. Of course, their loss to Man U in the FA Cup Quarterfinal certainly hurt, especially since they lost 4-0. Of course, their fine finish is also tarnished by their mere 39 goals on the entire season. Schwarzer wasn’t just good this year, he was integral.
Future Outlook: Fulham obviously needs more goals. Dempsey is working hard, but he needs someone else with a nose for the net. If they don’t pick up a threat, expect them to drift back toward the relegation zone in 2010. Of course, Fulham doesn’t have to worry about losing Schwarzer, as he is locked up for at least one more season.
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