Fulham Edge Past Stoke in Dramatic FA Cup Encounter
Harrison Reed's opportunistic late finish propelled Fulham into the fifth round of the FA Cup, as the Premier League side mounted a second-half comeback to overcome Championship strugglers Stoke City 2-1 at the bet365 Stadium. The victory, secured with just six minutes remaining, highlighted the fine margins that often decide cup football.
Stoke's Bright Start Overshadowed by Fulham's Resilience
Stoke, who have endured a difficult run of form since their previous round victory over Coventry, began the match with purpose against a heavily rotated Fulham lineup. The hosts' early endeavour was rewarded in the 19th minute when South Korean midfielder Bae Jun-ho finished a well-crafted move, smashing the ball past Fulham goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte to give Mark Robins' side a deserved lead.
Fulham, showing ten changes from their midweek defeat to Manchester City, initially struggled for cohesion, with careless passing inviting pressure. However, the Cottagers grew into the contest as the first half progressed, with Brazilian winger Kevin emerging as a persistent threat. His curling effort forced a superb save from Stoke goalkeeper Tommy Simkin, while a headed chance for Alex Iwobi went narrowly wide.
Kevin's Equaliser Sets the Stage for Reed's Heroics
The second half saw Fulham assert their Premier League quality, levelling the score in the 55th minute. Kevin, who had been a livewire throughout, cut in from the left and fired a first-time effort into the bottom corner after a deflection, rewarding his energetic performance.
Fulham dominated possession for the ensuing period, with Kevin, Oscar Bobb, and Alex Iwobi repeatedly testing Stoke's resolute defence. The home side battled valiantly to clear their lines, but a critical lapse in concentration ultimately proved their undoing.
Defensive Error Hands Fulham Decisive Advantage
With six minutes left on the clock, goalkeeper Tommy Simkin attempted a short pass to defender Tatsuki Seko, who was caught unaware by the alert Harrison Reed. The Fulham captain, leading the side for the day, seized possession as Seko tumbled, calmly slotting a low strike past Simkin to secure victory and book Fulham's place in the next round.
The result extends Stoke's winless run, while Fulham will look to carry this momentum forward in their pursuit of cup success. The match served as a reminder of the FA Cup's capacity for drama, with Reed's late intervention ensuring the Premier League outfit avoided a potential upset.
