Fulham manager Scott Parker has claimed his side's 4-0 loss to Newcastle on the final day of the 2018/19 Premier League season was similar to a 'basketball match' they always looked likely to concede in.
The hosts started Sunday's game brightly and enjoyed some early possession before a rapid pair of Newcastle goals marked the beginning of a miserable final day for the Championship-bound London club.
👏👏👏
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) May 12, 2019
Thank you for all your support this season #FFC fans, you have been amazing.
⚫️⚪️ #FULHAMTILIDIE pic.twitter.com/75hfsmfqGf
"When the game becomes a basketball match for us, which I mean back and forth, we are the side that look like they are going to concede."
Despite the two goals they leaked early on, Fulham retained some spells of possession and pushed forward in attack. With Floyd Ayite, Tom Cairney and Aleksandar Mitrovic all looking lively, the home side were unfortunate to not have scored before half time.
For Parker the result has marred his side's impressive league form of late, with the Cottagers having won three out of four of their previous league games.
Reflecting further on his side's performance and Fulham's season as a whole, he added: "
We are Fulham Football Club. London’s Original football club.
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) May 12, 2019
Together, we will rise again.
⚫️⚪️ #FULHAMTILIDIE pic.twitter.com/9I1fqN8HjR
Having had a goal ruled out for offside and a Jonjo Shelvey screamer scored against them, Fulham certainly didn't have luck on their side as a relentless Newcastle turned up the heat in Sunday's game.
However as Parker and his side prepare to re-adapt to the Championship next season, they'll have to bring some of their recent form with them if they are to bounce back into the top-flight anytime soon.
Source: 90min