Fulham midfielder John Collins believes Fulham should take Derby County’s decision to set out to contain the newly-promoted side in this afternoon’s goalless draw at Craven Cottage as a compliment.
The Scottish international was as frustrated as anyone that the Whites couldn’t secure a second successive home win in a row after dominating a game where the Rams put numbers behind the ball, with Louis Saha and Steed Malbranque missing glorious chances to win the contest, but believes Jim Smith’s approach was a recognition of how well Jean Tigana’s side have already adapted to life in the Premiership.
Speaking to the press after the final whistle yesterday, Collins said:
“They got men behind the ball and blocked shots and we found it difficult to find space. We played well enough and dominated the game. The problem was that Derby always seemed to have at least five defenders. It is always disappointing for the fans when you don’t get three points at home and I can understand their frustration. But we have to remain patient. It is no use humping balls up the park in the hope of scoring.”
