Raul Jimenez’s perfect penalty record continues as his goal gives Fulham a crucial 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest at Craven Cottage
RAUL Jimenez’s first-half penalty secured a vital 1-0 victory for Fulham over Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Monday.
The win at Craven Cottage moved Marco Silva’s side 10 points clear of the relegation zone, easing their fears heading into the Christmas schedule.
Nottingham Forest, in contrast, remain deep in the survival fight, sitting just five points above third-bottom West Ham.
The result halted Forest’s positive momentum after they had won six of their previous eight games in all competitions.
Fulham bounced back from their midweek League Cup quarter-final loss at Newcastle to claim successive league wins.
“We are very happy and pleased for the three points. They are massive for us,” said Fulham manager Marco Silva.
Forest boss Sean Dyche lamented his team’s lack of cutting edge in a disappointing performance.
“That killer instinct was not there tonight. It’s a reminder if you’re not at it, the game will go against you,” Dyche stated.
Forest striker Igor Jesus wasted two good first-half chances, blazing one effort over and being denied by a last-ditch tackle.
Fulham’s breakthrough came deep into first-half stoppage time when Douglas Luiz tripped Kevin in the area.
Jimenez calmly sent goalkeeper John Victor the wrong way from the spot for the only goal of the game.
The Mexico striker has now scored all 11 penalties he has taken in the Premier League.
Forest pushed for an equaliser after the break, with Murillo forcing a save from Bernd Leno and Morgan Gibbs-White shooting narrowly wide.
Fulham were without Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, who are on Africa Cup of Nations duty with Nigeria.
