Marco Silva
Fulham manager Marco Silva dedicated his team’s impressive 2-1 victory over Chelsea to the fans, highlighting the significance of the win in the context of their ongoing rivalry. The match saw a pivotal moment when Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella was sent off, allowing Fulham to capitalize and secure their third victory against their local rivals under Silva’s leadership.
Marco Silva said: “Of course, against 10 men, the game became different. Even if we did start well the game, the game was very balanced until that red card. I believe that second half, we did switch off sometimes, and because of that we gave some offensive transitions for them and dangerous moments from them – [Pedro] Neto carried the ball very well, or some moments with [Cole] Palmer. But I think at the end we deserved the three points. Second half, with the change [replacing Jorge Cuenca with Kevin] and we pushed more for the goals and we created some chances, and a great win, great win for us.”
Silva continued: “It’s a very good feeling for me to give these great games for our fans. Not being too humble, but for us they are three points, nothing more than that, for the football club. For the people that are more important than the football club, the fans, means much more than that, and that is the good thing for me. I celebrate with my players. We move on.”
He added: “Because if you play against Liverpool, or a derby against Palace, or a big derby against Chelsea, even with all the tiredness and fatigue there, you have to move, you have to go. The game is very tricky, the next one. That is what is on my mind right now. But I know there are reasons much more than that for the fans, they are going to enjoy the next few days, for sure, with their neighbours, with our biggest rivals, and that represents more really for them.”
Silva concluded: “I’m very proud that we can give them, again, a very good feeling. I know that the last 20 years, before we started this journey, was not something usual for them in terms of results against Chelsea. They are the world champions. The reality is that, since we started this journey, we are giving year after year, good feelings for them in these type of games, and that is the most important thing for me.”
The victory marked a significant milestone for Fulham, as they continue to build a strong record against Chelsea under Silva’s management. The match was heavily influenced by the red card given to Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella, which shifted the momentum in Fulham’s favor. Despite some lapses in concentration during the second half, Fulham managed to hold on and secure the win, much to the delight of their fans.
Silva’s comments reflect his understanding of the emotional importance of such victories for the supporters, who have long awaited consistent success against their formidable neighbors. The manager’s focus now shifts to preparing his team for upcoming challenges, while the fans revel in the joy of a well-earned derby triumph.
About The Author
