Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Sanchez Happy With Fulham Revival

Although drubbed by Arsenal in the Barclaycard Premier League opener, Fulham manager Lawrie Sanchez has hardly any doubts about the strength of his defense. He is the person who has been credited with the revival of the side. Fulham was not in the best of form when he had taken over the mantle of leading the side towards the end of last season.

Chris Coleman, the predecessor to Sanchez, was under a cloud of suspicion for his inability to motivate the side. Fulham’s defense had appeared ineffective as they had been crushed by Manchester United 4-0, with over 20 minutes left in the game.

However, the 2-1 victory against Bolton on Wednesday, the 15th of August, will certainly motivate the side. With a late aggression, Fulham had managed to compensate for the early Helguson goal. Appearing supremely content with his team’s performance, Sanchez had said,

"You couldn't ask for a bigger bounce back than from the goal we conceded, so hopefully that is an indication of what we can do this season and where we are.”

"We are a resilient team. We conceded 60 goals last year and often we were very much in the game until the second goal went against us and it ended in a three or four-goal collapse.”

"We were under a lot of pressure at the end and you would have hated to concede late on and end up with one point out of the game. So our ability to hold out will stand us in good stead when we are in similar situations throughout the season.”

Well, we certainly hope that his conviction in his side is no pretence. From what we have seen so far, Fulham is shaping-up quite well.

Sanchez is very pleased with David Healy's excellent run after scoring his second in the tournament. His first goal came against Arsenal on Sunday. Sanchez backs this talented youngster to the hilt after observing him perform brilliantly against England and Spain. Moreover, he was the only person who had complete faith in Healy, and his league performance would certainly gladden Sanchez’ heart.

Sanchez had said,

"Perhaps people had an idea that David was a prima donna but anyone who saw him in the two games can see his work-rate for the team is top notch as well, and always has been."

On the other hand, Bolton’s boss Sammy Lee is yet to contribute significantly to the side. Bolton has lost both its games and Lee will certainly be having sleepless nights.
Well, we believe fortune favors the brave and right now, Sanchez seems to be The Man.

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