Clint Dempsey’s stunning late header was a fitting way for Fulham to celebrate the first anniversary of Roy Hodgson’s appointment as manager after Fulham snatched a last-minute 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage.

Dempsey had put Fulham ahead after 10 minutes with a neat far-post finish when Simon Davies’ free-kick was allowed to bounce in the Chelsea box.

Twelve months ago, Hodgson took over a club that seemed doomed to relegation. Not only did Fulham survive but this season they have beaten Arsenal and taken points off both Liverpool and Chelsea.

This result extended their unbeaten run to nine games and Hodgson said: “It’s been one of the best managerial years of my career, if not the best. I’m immensely satisfied with what we’ve achieved in 2008.

“It was a remarkable achievement for the players to show the spirit and the character they showed to come back and keep the unbeaten run going.

“We didn’t start the second half well and as a result of their good pressure they scored two goals. After we went 2-1 down we did find our feet again a little bit, we did play more football and as a result we were able to put their goal under more pressure.”