Simon Morgan continued his goalscoring exploits by firing Fulham back to the top of the Second Division as the Whites beat Oldham Athletic at Craven Cottage.
The Cottagers cult hero, a veteran of more than 350 appearances since signing from Birmingham City in October 1990, hit the headlines on Saturday by opening the scoring as Kevin Keegan’s side dumped Premiership leaders Aston Villa out of the FA Cup. That was a fine way to mark his first start for two months and Morgan made it two goals in as many games by volleying home Steve Finnan’s right-wing cross midway through the first half. The matchwinner was taken off as a precaution after picking up a knock with twenty minutes to play.
The Whites leapfrogged Preston North End at the top of the Division Two table after the leaders lost 3-1 at AFC Bournemouth. Fulham wasted little time in getting going after kick off at the Cottage was delayed by 50 minutes because Oldham’s coach broke down. Keegan gave Philippe Albert, signed on loan from Newcastle United this week, a debut at the heart of a rejigged defence but the Belgian international had an easy introduction to life in SW6 as the hosts easily kept a clean sheet.
FULHAM (5-2-3): Taylor; Finnan, Brevett, Albert, Symons, Coleman; Morgan (W. Collins 71), Smith; Horsfield, Peschisolido (Uhlenbeek 45), Hayles. Subs (not used): Lehmann.
BOOKED: Horsfield.
GOAL: Morgan (22).
OLDHAM ATHLETIC (4-2-3-1): Kelly; McNiven, Mardon, Garnett, Thom; Holt, Allott, Rickers, Sheridan, Duxberry; Whitehall (Tipton 85). Subs (not used): Iness, Swann.
REFEREE: Andy D’Urso (Billericay).
ATTENDANCE: 8,160.
