November 22, (THEWILL) — Raul Jimenez struck late to give Fulham a crucial 1-0 win over Sunderland at Craven Cottage, ending a difficult run of form for Marco Silva’s team.
The Mexican forward netted his second league goal of the campaign six minutes from time, converting Samuel Chukwueze’s delivery to claim only a second victory in seven English Premier League fixtures for the home side. Fulham had dominated possession and created the better chances throughout, with Harry Wilson, who scored three times for Wales against North Macedonia earlier in the week, going close in both halves. Kevin also threatened before the interval, but the match looked set to finish goalless until Jimenez intervened in the 84th minute.
The result lifts Fulham to 14th in the table and opens a three-point gap above the relegation zone. Sunderland, who had been unbeaten in their previous four matches, drop from fourth to sixth after managing just two efforts on target. Regis Le Bris’ side remain on 19 points, level with Bournemouth, whom they face next.
Wilson’s form for his country did not translate into a goal at club level, though his shot narrowly missed the target after the break. Fulham’s persistence eventually paid off when substitute Chukwueze provided the cross that allowed Jimenez to finish from close range.
The defeat ends Sunderland’s strong sequence of results and presents a test of their top-six credentials. Fulham, meanwhile, will hope the victory provides momentum after a stuttering spell in the league.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
