‘Huddersfield feel like a team that should be achieving much more’ - Fulham Preview
Brady Frost, Feature Writer
Twitter: @brady0894
Source for image above: HTAFC
Ahead of the match at Craven Cottage, we spoke to Ben Jarman from the Fulhamish podcast.
Following the dramatic winner at Hull from Steve Mounie, Huddersfield Town travel to West London to play promotion hopefuls Fulham, currently fourth in the table. Last time these two teams faced each other, it was possibly Huddersfield’s lowest point this season. It was 2-1 win for Fulham and as a result, Jan Siewert’s last league game in charge. It’s fair to say a lot has changed since then.
Will the confidence from Tuesday’s spectacular 96th minute win help The Terriers, or will The Whites be too strong? And He Takes That Chance spoke to Ben Jarman, from fan podcast Fulhamish to find out how our opponents have been performing.
The Fulham players after their 0-0 draw against Charlton earlier this month. Photo source: Fulham FC
How would you rate Fulham’s season so far?
7/10. Fulham have spent a lot of time trying to figure out who they want to be, and at points, it has certainly felt like one step forward, two steps back.
We've ridden our luck at times, and have struggled against the smaller sides prime examples being a 3-3 draw against Luton Town on Boxing Day and being humbled at home by Reading. Since the introduction of Michael Hector, though, Fulham certainly look a more solid unit.
What did you make of Huddersfield Town in our previous encounter this season?
Fulham did need a stunning goal from Ivan Cavaliero to see off Huddersfield at a sodden John Smiths Stadium earlier in the season, but the Terriers looked a shade of the unit they were under David Wagner in what was to be Siewert's final game.
It seemed as though Huddersfield were still reeling from a dreadful relegation season and tactically all at sea at times. Still, it was clear to see that there was talent there, especially in the form of Karlan Grant.
What’s your prediction for the rest of Fulham’s season?
We have an incredibly difficult March, facing up to Leeds, Nottingham Forest, Bristol City and Brentford, so we need to make February count.
A few weeks ago it seemed as though the fanbase were resigned to play-offs, however, after Leeds and West Brom’s wobble and a run of one defeat in eight there is optimism that this squad can be promoted automatically. Depending on the March run, Fulham should make the playoffs this season.
Terence Kongolo joined Fulham on loan earlier this month for the rest of the season. Photo source: Fulham FC
What’s been the reaction from Fulham fans to Terence Kongolo’s signing? Do you think he’ll be a success?
Hugely positive in the main, he's a player with great calibre. Going to the World Cup at 20, winning titles with PSV and a good debut season with the Terriers. Obviously huge questions over his attitude but an excellent showing against the Premier League Champions in the FA Cup did something to amp the hype for Kongolo even further!
Is there anything Huddersfield need to be on the lookout for in this game?
Fulham's attacking threat is the first thing that springs to mind, if Cavaliero, Knockaert and Bobby Reid are being well-fed by Tom Cairney then it could well be a long afternoon for the Terriers. Michael Hector is also a massive threat at set-pieces.
Apart from the obvious names, which players have performed well but gone under the radar to other clubs in the league?
Bobby Decordova-Reid. Who has without a doubt been our signing of the season from Cardiff on loan, which was made permanent last week to the delight of the fans. Bobby has electric pace and is able to make something happen out of nothing, opening games up for the likes of Knockaert and Cavaliero. His famous friendship with Joe Bryan hasn't gone unnoticed!
Caption: Scott Parker is in his first full season as Fulham manager. Photo Source: Fulham FC.
Are you pleased with Scott Parker and his style this season?
Yes and no. Fulham can produce some of the best football in the division on their day, however, are prone to playing a very one-dimensional style of football and can struggle against teams with a low block.
Over the past few weeks we have seen Scott making big decisions and getting them right; Middlesbrough at home and a big win against Leeds. Fulham still feel like they can click up a gear which is positive, and the 433 holding possession really suits the squad we have.
What do you think of Huddersfield so far this season?
Ultimately Huddersfield feel like a team that should be achieving much more than they are with the squad that they have, and they have a superb managerial tandem in Danny and Nicky Cowley.
It seems as though the management team are putting their stamp on the team a little more in recent weeks with decent results against Brentford and Hull. The departures of Kongolo and Diakhaby signify the changes happening behind the scenes.
What’s the fan consensus about this game? Is it seen as an easy fixture?
No - the fanbase is quite aware of the quality Huddersfield have, but given the run that we will have to navigate in the latter part of the season, Fulham desperately need 3 points.
Caption: Ben Jarman’s tip is to bring your thermals and woolly hat because it gets cold! Photo source: Fulham FC
What are your tips for away fans coming to Craven Cottage?
Absolutely give yourself enough time to walk through Bishops Park before the game, it really is the nicest walk in football! Bring your thermals and a woolly hat - we are renovating the Riverside Stand and the wind that whips up off the Thames is bitterly cold.
What’s your score prediction for the game?
Being at home, and looking much more solid defensively now, I will plump for a 2-0 Fulham win. Especially if the Whites start in the same manner as they did against 'Boro.
Anything you’d like to add?
Best of luck for the rest of the season (after Saturday of course!!)
How do you think Huddersfield will get on at Craven Cottage? Let us know in the comments!
