Fulham boss Martin Jol rued his side’s failure to make the most of their chances as they were held to a 1-1 draw by FC Twente in their opening UEFA Europa League Group K clash at Craven Cottage.
Andrew Johnson took advantage of a defensive error to shoot the Cottagers in front after 19 minutes but despite much pressure they could not add a second, and Luuk de Jong’s header bounced against the post and in off goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer for a 41st-minute equaliser.
Jol said “In the first half we should have been two or three up. Of course they’re a good team but when you put them under that sort of pressure you should be winning.
“We still wanted to play with four forward players but if you don’t put the goals away you get frustrated and put pressure on yourself. The only thing now is that we have to put the chances away.”
Goalscorer Johnson also admitted his disappointment at failing to bag the points but said the draw would stand his side in good stead for the remainder of the group campaign.
Johnson said: “We started well and played well enough to come away with the points so I think we’re disappointed, but it’s a long slog and to get a point early on (in the group) is pleasing.”
Johnson is battling back from injury problems and has an extra incentive to lead 2010 finalists Fulham on another lengthy Europa League campaign.
He added: “I missed out on being in the final and I played in the early games last season, so I’m delighted to be fit now and scoring goals, and I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead.”
